Leaving your campsite cleaner than when you found it is a core principle of outdoor ethics

Leaving your campsite cleaner than you found it is a core principle of outdoor ethics, often tied to the "Leave No Trace" philosophy. The idea is to minimize your environmental impact and ensure natural spaces remain pristine for wildlife and future visitors. Here’s a breakdown:

• Pack out all trash: Remove everything you brought, including food scraps, wrappers, and even biodegradable items like fruit peels, which can disrupt local ecosystems. Double-check the site for small items like bottle caps or cigarette butts.

• Clean up beyond your mess: Pick up any litter left by others, such as stray plastic or abandoned gear. This restores the site and sets a positive example.

• Respect the site: Avoid damaging plants, trees, or soil. Stick to established trails and campsites to prevent erosion or habitat destruction. If you moved rocks or branches, return them to their original spots.

• Leave natural features: Don’t carve into trees, build structures, or take souvenirs like rocks or plants. The goal is to make it look like you were never there.

• Fire safety: If you made a fire, ensure it’s fully extinguished, and scatter the cooled ashes. Remove any unburned debris from the fire pit.

• Wildlife consideration: Don’t leave food or scented items that could attract animals, as this can alter their behavior or endanger them.

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