To keep campsites clean and tidy, it is important to properly dispose of trash, bring a trash bin, keep food secure, avoid glass containers, keep the campsite organized, clean up after meals, avoid leaving anything behind, respect the environment, use biodegradable products, and follow Leave No Trace principles. These principles include properly disposing of human waste, involving kids in the cleanup process, and preventing animals from getting into food by storing it in airtight containers and using bear-proof containers in areas with bears.
As much as we love spending time in nature, it’s important to remember that we are guests in the great outdoors. With that being said, it’s crucial to practice good campsite etiquette by keeping our campsite clean and tidy. Here are 10 tips for keeping your campsite clean and tidy:
1. Dispose of Trash Properly
One of the most important things you can do to keep your campsite clean is to dispose of your trash properly. This means packing out anything that you brought in and making sure that any trash that you create during your stay is properly disposed of.
2. Use a Trash Bin
Bringing a trash bin with you can make it easier to properly dispose of any trash you create. This can include a small plastic bin or even a reusable grocery bag. Just make sure to keep the trash bin secure so that animals can’t get into it.
3. Keep Food Secure
Keeping food secure is important for both safety reasons and to keep animals from being attracted to your campsite. This means keeping your food in airtight containers and storing it in a cooler or bear-proof container when not in use.
4. Avoid Bringing Glass Containers
Glass containers can easily break and create a hazard for both humans and animals. It’s better to avoid bringing glass containers and opt for plastic or metal ones instead.
5. Keep Your Campsite Organized
Keeping your campsite organized can help you avoid creating unnecessary messes. Setting up a designated cooking area, for example, can help prevent food and trash from getting scattered around your campsite.
6. Clean Up After Meals
Cleaning up after meals is a must-do to maintaining a clean campsite. This means wiping down cooking surfaces, washing dishes, and properly disposing of any food scraps or waste.
7. Don’t Leave Anything Behind
When it’s time to pack up and leave, make sure to double-check that you haven’t left anything behind. This can include small items like bottle caps or cigarette butts as well as larger gear like tents and sleeping bags.
8. Respect the Environment
Respecting the environment means being mindful of your impact on the natural surroundings. This includes staying on designated trails, avoiding damaging vegetation, and not disturbing wildlife.
9. Use Biodegradable Products
Using biodegradable products can help reduce your impact on the environment. This can include things like biodegradable soap, toilet paper, and trash bags that will break down naturally over time.
10. Leave No Trace
Following the Leave No Trace principles is key to keeping your campsite clean and tidy. This means leaving the natural surroundings just as you found them without leaving any lasting impact.
FAQs
Q: How can I properly dispose of human waste while camping?
A: It’s important to follow established Leave No Trace principles when disposing of human waste while camping. This can include digging a small hole at least 6 inches deep and at least 200 feet from any water source or campsite. After use, the hole should be filled back in and any used toilet paper should be properly disposed of in a trash bag.
Q: How can I keep my campsite tidy with kids?
A: Getting kids involved in campsite cleanup can help make it a fun activity. Encourage them to be responsible for picking up their own messes and set up designated play areas to avoid toys and games getting scattered around the campsite.
Q: How can I prevent animals from getting into my food?
A: Keeping food secure is key to preventing animals from getting into your campsite. This can include storing food in airtight containers, cooking and eating away from sleeping areas, and using a bear-proof container when camping in areas with bears.
