How to Make a Garbage Dump for Your Campsite

When camping, remember that wildlife sometimes visit campsites because they smell human food and garbage. Therefore, reducing the odors produced by your garbage will help keep animals away from your campsite. Follow these steps to make a garbage dump for your campsite.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Bear proof garbage container (best choice)
• Heavy duty garbage bags
• Nylon cord
• Karabiner

1. Get a bear proof garbage container, if possible. This is by far the best choice because no animal should be able to get into it. If you cannot obtain a bear proof garbage container, you will need to hang up your garbage, as described in Step 4.
2. Remember that all trash should be at least 100 yards downwind from your campsite. This will increase your safety level, because even if an animal is attracted to your garbage, he won't be right in your campsite.
3. Put your garbage in two heavy duty garbage bags and tie them tightly before you place them in your garbage dump. This will also help reduce the smell.
4. String up your garbage bag if you don't have a bear proof garbage container. Find two sturdy trees that are 6 to 8 yards apart. Suspend the trash bags between the two trees about 4 yards above the ground using a strong nylon cord and a karabiner. Hang them from a branch that can support the trash, but not a bear. If you can't find a good branch, tie another rope between the two trees to support the rope attached to the trash bags. Secure the other end of the rope to the base of a tree.