The 7 Leave No Trace Principles Every Camper Should Follow
As campers, it’s our responsibility to leave the outdoor world as clean and undisturbed as it was before we went there. Not only does this allow plants and animals to live their lives in a pristine natural habitat, but it also ensures that future campers will be able to enjoy the same trails we’ve hiked.
Leave No Trace embodies this sustainable, ethical method of camping. To help us all camp responsibly, the National Park Service has put together a list of the 7 Leave No Trace principles to follow. Here’s a quick overview.
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
It’s also important to know how busy your chosen trail is and how many people their campsites can accommodate. If you have a large group, it may be necessary to split into smaller groups so as not to overstress local resources.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
For campers, this means camping only in designated campsites, where there’s no undergrowth to beat down. If for some reason you’re camping in pristine wilderness, it means doing just the opposite; avoid recently-used campsites in these areas, since repeated use will make it take longer for the natural flora to recover.
No matter where you’re camping, make sure you’re at least 200 feet from rivers, lakes, and streams to avoid contaminating natural water.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
This also means staying at least 200 feet from water sources while you’re doing your business. And if you have to go number two, dig a six to eight-inch cathole and cover it back up when you’re finished.
4. Leave What You Find
Similarly, a big part of the reason so many people love the wilderness is that they get to see beautiful natural and cultural sites. Removing artifacts from a state or natural park makes it less enriching for everybody. Similarly, building structures like walls or shelters is also a big no-no.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
Another impact of fire is the removal of wood from the surrounding area. Make sure to only use wood that’s dead and has already fallen to the ground. If it’s still on the tree, leave it be.
6. Respect Wildlife
Similarly, respect for wildlife also means respecting the fact that many animals can – and will – kill you if they feel threatened. A grizzly bear is a majestic animal, but if you see one it’s important to stay safe and back away slowly.
Finally, remember that your pets can impact the environment just as much as you can. Keep animals close, or leave them at home.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
By following these 7 leave no trace principles, you’ll truly Leave No Trace in the wilderness. And you’ll help pass on beautiful, pristine land to future generations.