Leave-no-trace camping tips - after wilderness camping, campers can leave the area just as they found it

Ranger Rick, July, 1997 by Roger Kaye

Wilderness areas are not all the same, so it's not always possible to follow the same rules everywhere. But here are some suggestions to keep in mind when you go to any wilderness area:

It's safer to go out with a group than alone, but keep your group small. That way it's easier to avoid disturbing plants and animals.

If you find a campsite that's already established, use it. If you do set up a new campsite, try to make it where you won't disturb any plants.

It's best to cook on a camping stove. If you do make a campfire, keep it small. If there's already a fire ring nearby, make your fire there. Always build campfires away from trees, grass, and other plants. Use only small pieces of dead wood found lying on the ground. Before you leave, fill in the fire pit with sand or soil--to leave the spot just as you found it.

If there's a trail, stay on it. If you do need to go off the trail, try to step where the surface is hardest and avoid stepping on plants. Don't leave any trash lying around, and pick up anyone else's trash you find. Remember, "Leave-No-Trace" camping is not just a list of rules--it's an attitude.