Camping Sanitation: How to Properly Dispose of Waste in the Forest

WRITTEN BY JON

Camping is a beloved pastime for many people, but it can also have a negative impact on the environment if proper sanitation is not practiced. One of the most important aspects of camping sanitation is properly disposing of waste in the forest.

When camping in the wilderness, it is important to remember that there are no public restrooms or trash cans. This means that all human waste and trash must be disposed of properly in order to protect the natural environment.

One way to properly dispose of human waste is to use a camping toilet or a “wag bag”. A camping toilet is a portable toilet that can be used to dispose of human waste in an environmentally friendly way. A wag bag is a biodegradable bag that is filled with sawdust or other absorbent material and used to dispose of human waste. Both of these options allow for proper disposal of human waste without polluting the environment.

Another important aspect of camping sanitation is properly disposing of trash. This includes all types of waste, from food scraps to packaging materials. When camping in the wilderness, it is important to pack out all trash and not leave any behind. This means that all trash must be properly sealed and carried out of the wilderness area.

One way to properly dispose of trash while camping is to use a bear canister. A bear canister is a container that is specifically designed to keep bears from getting into trash. This is important because bears that get into human food can become dangerous and may have to be killed. Bear canisters can also be used to store food and other items that are not trash.

Another way to properly dispose of trash while camping is to use a designated trash bag. This is a bag that is specifically designed to hold trash and can be sealed to keep it from spilling out. This is a great option for camping in areas where bears are not a concern.

It is also important to properly dispose of cooking waste, such as food scraps and grease. Food scraps should be packed out and disposed of in a proper trash receptacle. Grease should never be poured on the ground or into a body of water. Instead, it should be strained and disposed of in a proper trash receptacle.

In addition to properly disposing of waste, it is also important to practice “leave no trace” principles while camping. This means leaving the wilderness area as it was found, without any visible signs of human presence. This includes not cutting down trees or plants, not building fires in undesignated areas, and not leaving any trash or human waste behind.

In conclusion, proper camping sanitation is essential for protecting the natural environment. This includes properly disposing of human waste and trash, as well as practicing “leave no trace” principles. By following these guidelines, campers can enjoy the beauty of the wilderness while also ensuring that it remains pristine for future generations. So, next time you plan to go camping, don't forget to keep these tips in mind and make sure to leave the wilderness as you found it.