Krista Houghton
Latest posts by Krista Houghton (see all)

Five Tips for Cleaner Adventure Camping

The popularity of dispersed camping has surged, enticing adventurers to leave the beaten path. Picture the disappointment of arriving at your chosen adventure spot after hours of planning and travel, only to find it strewn with litter. Unfortunately, this disheartening scenario has happened to me more than once.

Dispersed camping is defined as camping on public lands outside of designated campgrounds, with no infrastructure or facilities. Offering solitude and freedom from reservations, this form of adventure camping is a great option but requires more planning. Upon your arrival and departure, there should be no signs of previous campers โ€” no trash, no toilet paper, not even micro-trash.

For those considering adventure camping, please carry a deeper commitment to our natural spaces. Our planet isnโ€™t just a backdrop for our adventures; itโ€™s our only home. To helpย  pay it forward here are five adventure camping guidelines toย  consider:

Guideline #1: Water

Too often water comes in single-serving plastic bottles, a detrimental choice for our environment. Itโ€™s disheartening to witness fellow campers sipping from these wasteful containers. Instead, opt for refillable water bottles and carry a refillable water jug to minimize our plastic footprint.

Guideline #2: Propane

Fueling our cooking adventures is essential, but the environmental impact of small, non-refillable fuel canisters is often overlooked. While they may be convenient for backpacking, a refillable propane tank is an eco-friendly choice when overlanding or car camping. These tanks are cost-effective and reduce landfill waste.

Guideline #3: Fire

The allure of a campfire is undeniable, providing warmth, ambiance, and a connection to our primal instincts. However, constructing a fire pit or using a pre-existing fire ring can leave a lasting scar on the land. Opting for a small, portable fire pit minimizes environmental impact, allowing for a controlled and easily extinguished fire. By packing up all remnants, including bean cans, we leave no trace of our fireside experience.

Guideline #4: Pooping

Typically, human waste takes a year to biodegrade, and pooping outside poses a risk to delicate desert and alpine ecosystems. With increasing numbers of people in the backcountry, utilizing wag bags (Waste Alleviating Gel bags) becomes essential to reduce environmental impact. Despite initial awkwardness, wag bags are regarded as the optimal method for proper waste disposal while camping. They come equipped with a gelling/deodorizing agent, individual toilet paper, hand wipes, and are puncture-resistant. Embracing this method aligns with Leave No Trace principles when adventuring outdoors.

Guideline #5: Power

Power is essential for our devices. Opt for rechargeable batteries and systems to cut disposable battery waste. Upgrade to electric coolers with built-in freezers, powered by portable stations or lithium batteries with solar panels, for extended power without ice. This ensures a continuous power supply and saves food from spoiling.

Leaving no trace involves departing as if we were never there, but our goal is to go beyond that โ€” leaving the planet better for future campers. Adopting these five clean camp resolutions signifies our commitment to ensuring a fantastic adventure for ourselves and preserving a pristine environment for generations to come.

For more tips on clean camping visit Leave No Trace at lnt.org.

 

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