The eco-friendly trend to leave no trace after camping has become really popular among the outdoorsy community. The goal is to have little impact on your outdoor camping spot. Learn how to be part of this trend.
Camp Clean: How to Leave No Trace
Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.
-Baltimore Grotto Motto
This quote is the core of the “Leave No Trace” philosophy. The Great Outdoors has so much to offer. We want to take advantage of it, not hurt it, don’t we? This is why it’s important to be aware of how we can actually leave no trace after spending time outdoors.
Be Prepared
Make sure you plan ahead and prepare everything you need. It doesn’t hurt to visit the camping location prior to your trip and learn about the rules there. Avoid visiting when you know there will be a ton of people there to avoid high volume of use.
Use the Established Campsites and Trails
Avoid going off the maps and create your own paths. The idea is to keep the integrity of the area.
Bring Everything Back
Whatever you packed for your trip, you should pack out when you get home. Don’t leave things at the camping site. If it wasn’t there before you got there, it shouldn’t stay there when you leave. Follow basic waste disposal guidelines or ask the guides at the campsite about it.
Reduce Campfire Impact
Use the designated fire rings and a camping stove. Always burn the fire all the way down and scatter cool ashes.
Don’t Take Anything With You
Nature is not for souvenirs. Avoid taking with you any rocks, plants, or animals you saw there. If you like it a lot, go back and visit.
Be Respectful of Wildlife
For your own sake and the environment’s, don’t disturb the animals.
Remember: You Might Not Be Out There Alone
It’s quite possible you have other campers around, so always be respectful of that. People are usually out there for the calm and quiet, so do your best not to disrupt that.
At Mile Hi Rafting, camping can be added to any of our trips/tours for $5 per person. Children under 12 are free with adults. There is a refundable $200 Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly deposit. There are also National Forest sites where you can check availability on ReserveAmerica.com in our area.
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