While searching for them, I found out that flares in large quantities are getting harder to find because they use them to make meth.
Walmart carries 3 min signal flares. I don't know how they compare to road flares for fire starting. They're pricey, though, at $28 per 4-pack
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Orion-Locate-4-Handheld/16326929Gander Mtn has a 2-pack for $10.
http://www.gandermountain.com/modperl/product/details.cgi?i=851243