How to Camp With Minimum Impact

Each year, more and more people take to the wilderness in search of adventure and that special connection to Mother Nature, so it's more important than ever to minimize your impact when camping.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hiking Boots
• Hiking Shoes
• Toilet Paper
• Dishes
• Small Trash Bags
• Camping Stoves
• Climbing Shoes

1. Plan ahead. Most wilderness use occurs on summer weekends. You'll get more out of your experience and minimize crowd problems if you avoid peak travel times.

2. Learn about the local regulations and the ecology of the area you plan to visit to ensure that you're fully aware of how to camp properly.

3. Wear soft-soled shoes rather than hard-soled mountain boots when walking on sensitive trails.

4. If you must leave established trails, try not to walk in single file and make a new trail. Spread your group out and spread your impact so the wilderness can recover naturally.

5. Avoid building fires. This will prevent unsightly fire rings.

6. Keep quiet and keep a clean camp.

7. Do all dishes and bodily necessities at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams to avoid contaminating the water supply.

8. Pack out everything that you take in, including toilet paper.

9. Avoid interfering with the wildlife.