Leaving No Trace: How to Make Sure Your Campsite is Clean and Eco-Friendly

When you go camping, it's important to make sure that you leave no trace behind. This means disposing of waste properly, using established campfire areas, and avoiding expanding the campsite beyond the established area. To ensure that your campsite is clean and eco-friendly, here are some tips to follow.

Dispose of Waste Properly

Before you leave your campsite, inspect it for garbage or spilled food. Pack all trash, leftover food, and other waste with you.

Make sure to leave the campsite cleaner than when you found it. If you need to dispose of solid human waste, dig a box 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet away from water, camping areas, and trails.

Learn About Leave No Trace

The concept of “leaving no trace” was born in the 1960s, and the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics emerged in the 90s. Stop at a state park the next time you go camping and ask the office if they're planning a Leave No Trace booth for that week or weekend. This is a great way to learn more about the 7 principles of Leave No Trace for Camping, as well as meet other outdoor enthusiasts.

Light a Fire Responsibly

If allowed, light a fire only in established campfire areas with dead and fallen wood that does not exceed the size of your forearm (or buy firewood locally).

Don't burn garbage, burn all wood to ash, and make sure the fire is completely out (and cold) before leaving. If there isn't a circle of fire in your camp and you want an alternative method of building a safe campfire, you can create a campfire on a mound.

Stay on Existing Trails

Leave No Trace encourages guests to stay on existing trails and to camp where there has been a previous caravan. Use well-established campsites that are large enough for your group and avoid expanding the campsite with satellite tents beyond the established area so as not to damage the vegetation.

Bring Dry Socks

It's uncomfortable to put on wet socks, but it's worth it when you arrive at camp after a long day and have to put on warm, dry socks. To keep your sleepwear clean, never leave the store (unless you're going to pee in the middle of the night).