8 tips for keeping your campsite clean

Keeping a clean campsite will not only make your experience more pleasant, but is important when it comes to respecting nature and maintaining a sustainable camping area.

Here are eight tips to keep a clean campsite:

1. Start with clean gear

Before you head out make sure your tent, backpack, cooking supplies, and everything else you'll be bringing is clean and ready to go. Get rid of crumbs and odors that could attract pests and wildlife to your campsite and keep in mind that camping in one location once and then camping in another the next time can transfer non-native seeds and species.

2. Use well-established campsites

Ideally, use an established campsite at a campground for the least impact. These campgrounds have clear boundaries that mark the site so you won't interfere with the habitat, put in places and designed in a manner than promotes sustainability of the surrounding area. According to Leave No Trace, "good campsites are found, not made."

The same principle applies to dispersed camping. Look for an area that supports an overnight stay at least 200 feet from the water and don't alter the terrain to make it more suitable.

3. Bring camping furniture

Camping chairs, tables, and stools are comfortable and easy to set up. They're easier to move than rocks or logs, and more comfortable and clean to sit on – plus, moving things like rocks and logs can be damaging to the natural habitat. The Leave No Trace principles say you should "leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them."

4. Dispose of trash properly

Pack it in, pack it out. Be sure to pack out all trash and leftover food. According to Leave No Trace, campers should deposit solid human waste in holes dug 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. You should also never burn trash.

5. Use biodegradable soap (for dishes)

To wash dishes, Leave No Trace also states that you should carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Then scatter the strained dishwater.

6. Properly store your food

Don't leave your food out to attract animals like hungry bears (and pests). Secure food in your cooler or car during the day. At night put all food and coolers in a bear box if there is one. Otherwise, you can hang a bag of food from a high tree branch.

7. Make and use campfires responsibly

If you can, use established fire rings, pans, or mound fires where permitted. When done, burn all wood and coals to ash. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving it, then scatter the cool ashes. You can use water or dirt to speed up the process. And once again, don't burn trash.

8. Clean up "micro-rubbish"

This includes all little bits of food and trash, like fruit peels, egg shells, and potato chips. Do your best to be as thorough as possible when picking up your campsite.

CAMPSITE QUIZ: And in case you missed it, one thing wrong with the campsite shown in the feature image above is that it's too close to a water source. This is one of the most common mistakes made when finding a spot to camp.