Low Impact Camping

There are more people on Earth than there are were a century ago, but we still have to operate in the same amount of room. That makes caring wisely for the wild areas we have left all the more important. 

There are a few simple things Trailmen can do to walk more softly in the wilderness while still have a great time. Just as you would take off muddy boots before entering your house, taking similar precautions in nature's houses will become a habit that demonstrates respect for God's creation.

prepare in advance

Know what you will need to bring, what you should leave at home, what you should do, and what you should avoid doing. The best way to do this is to ask the land manager for suggestions.

No Trailblazing

It may require walking a few extra steps, but stay on the prepared paths and camp whenever possible in prepared campgrounds. These places were reserved for human wear and tear so that the surrounding areas could remain pristine for future visitors. Remember, when you blaze a new trail, other people will be tempted to use it after you.

Not all wild areas are as durable as the grass in your yard. Some delicate places will hold the scars of your passing for a long time.

leave it intact

If it belongs there, it stays there. If it doesn't belong there, pack it out.  In National Parks and Monuments, removing natural objects is a violation of the Antiquities Act.

Even if it is not illegal, it is unethical to collect "souvernirs" of your visit that deprive future visitors the same experiences you enjoyed. Don't dam creeks, dig trenches, or leave trash. Don't lave "pioneering" projects, such as camp gadgets, behind. 

Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, and make nothing but memories. 

be careful with fire

Campfires have their place in the outdoors, and that place is a carefully prepared area set aside by the land manager. Consider using a camping stove if your aim is to heat water or cook food. 

If you are camping in a prepared place with a fire ring, use the existing spot rather than building a fire in a new place. If you do use fire, makre sure the area around it is clear of twigs, branches, and anything that can catch fire; and always watch a fire carefully to prevent flames from spreading to the surroundings. It only takes a moment to start, but it may take years for nature to heal from it.

Remember never to run or horseplay around an open fire. A tragedy could occur if a Trailman were to trip or fall into a fire or onto hot coals.

wise sanitation

Water you use at home is treated before being released. Obviously, you can't return water to its source as clean as you got it, but you can take precautions to minimize your impact on the land.

For short stays, remove solids from dishwater and put them in the trash. Then take dishwater or rinse water at least 200 feet (75 steps) from open water and fling it out rather than pouring it in one spot. For longer stays, dig a sump hole. It should be about a foot across and two feet deep. Remove solids from dishwater before emptying it. Fill in the sump hole before you leave, and return the land to a natural appearance. Water used to wash your body should be treated with the same precautions as dishwater.

It is less adventurous but a lot more pleasant to use restroom facilities at campgrounds. If you must dig a cathole for human waste, it should be located at least 200 feet (about 75 steps) from open water, trails or campsites. Dig a hole about 7 inches deep. After using it, fill it in with the soil you dug. Leave the area as close to its original appearance as possible, but leave a stick in the ground to warn people against using the same spot. Sanitize your hands.

For longer stays with several people, dig a latrine. A latrine is a shallow trench about four feet long and seven inches deep. After each use, sprinkle a layer of dirt to abate odors and keep away flies. Return the area to a natural appearance before moving on.

Getting along with other visitors

One of the greatest parts about camping is getting away from it all. Select your campsite in a way to protect your own privacy and the privacy of others. Do not make excessive noise or use brightly colored tents. Leave loud electronics behind. Make sure you do not enter another campsite without asking permission.