Green Camping Tips
Camping is considered as one of the best ways to get out and
enjoy the great outdoors. Since you ARE outside when camping you may
be wondering how one can make camping more "natural" than it already
is. Well, quite simply we can camp more naturally and with more care
for the environment by following some of the ideas below. My biggest
rule for camping is something I learned from my own parents..."If
you brought it in....you take it back out. Leave the area just as
you found it."
1. Use
biodegradable soap for dish washing, bathing and laundry while
camping. Try Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps for certified organic, biodegradable
soaps that smell great!
2. Bring a set of reusable dishes and flatware - ditch the
disposables!
3. Purchase produce for your trip from a local organic farm along
the way!
4. Try citronella candles and Avon "Skin So Soft" instead of
toxic chemical insect repellants. Wear long sleeves and long pants at dawn and dusk when insects are most active.
5. Save wildlife by keeping your campsite clean. Food left
out will encourage animal visitors. Animals considered a nuisance
may be destroyed. Never try to feed wild animals. They may become
dependant upon human handouts.
6. Be sure to set up tents in designated areas to protect native
plant life.
7. Stay on trails to protect habitat and avoid snake encounters.
Snakes sense vibrations, so walking with a buddy or a group is not
only wise, it will announce your presence to snakes who just want to
avoid encountering YOU!
8. Leave no trace! Pack out all your trash when backpacking.
Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it!
9. Support local education programs and learn more about the
plants, animals and issues of the area where you camp. Park Service
campfire programs are fun and educational!
10. Start your day with shade grown, organic, fair trade coffee
as a morning wake up! This coffee helps provide a living wage
for coffee farmers, protects rainforest habitat, and helps minimize
chemical pesticides and fertilizers in our environment. Consider
organic, fair trade chocolate bars for your S'mores!
Laurie Furry
Education Specialist/Adventure Coordinator
Camping Pros,
Inc.
Camping Books:
