Etiquette? But I’m
outdoors, in the wilderness… I have to have manners? Yes. Just because you’re
not in someone’s house, you’re on Mother Earth’s territory, as well as the park
or campgrounds you’re staying at. You must be respectful of the wildlife and
people around you.
Leave No Trace
Any campsite you enter should be left better then when you
came.
- · Garbage: keep a trash bin at the site, just a big bag tied to a tree will do. If there are dumpsters at the campground, make sure to dump it before night so no critters come. Do no ever leave any garbage ever on the campsite. And don’t burn anything other than paper
- · Fire: try not to leave big burned logs in the fire pit, burn them completely or dispose of them. Burn only wood and paper. Make sure the fire is completely out before you leave or go to bed, this means no smoke, heat, or ambers left.
- · Water disposal: if there is no designated drain at the site dig a sump to do dishes and brush teeth. Be sure to fill the sump before you leave. And try not to get too much food waste in the sump, that should go in the garbage
Neighbors
There are people around you and you do not know what type of
people they are. Be kind and respectful. This means quiet after 10pm and do not
walk through the other campsites, it doesn’t matter how bad you have to go to
the bathroom, they don’t want you there and you must respect these boundaries.
Pets
Before you arrive at any campsite with your dog, be sure
they are allowed. Keep your dog on a leash at all times if required, and do not
let them wander into others campsites. Clean up after them and dispose of it
properly. If your dog is extremely territorial and a loud barker, think about
putting them in a kennel; you don’t want to interrupt other campers vacation.
Respect
Respect the campgrounds and wildlife. If the park requires
payment for each person, don’t lie. Stay on paths when walking and don’t pick
the plants or touch any animals. You are in their home and need to remember
that. Park in designated areas; usually campsites allow two cars only; more
requires the purchase of a second site. If there is a lake near by, treat it
like your personal pool. Be cautious of others and if you have to go to the
bathroom, I’m sure it’s only a short distance away.
