Method for Defecating in Forested Areas (During Camping, Hiking, or Backpacking)
In the great outdoors, understanding how to take care of basic necessities is essential for preserving the pristine beauty of nature. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to properly poop in the woods, ensuring you leave no trace and protect natural water sources, while maintaining a comfortable wilderness experience.
First and foremost, choose a spot at least 200 feet (approximately 70 adult steps) away from any water source, trail, or campsite. This distance helps to avoid contaminating water and minimises disturbance to fellow campers [3][5].
Next, dig a cathole 6 to 8 inches deep using a small shovel or trowel. This hole should be deep enough to cover waste and prevent animals from digging it up [5]. Squat over the hole and do your business directly into it [4].
Afterward, cover the waste and used toilet paper completely with the excavated soil, disguising the spot to prevent animals from uncovering it and to minimise visual impact [4]. In some places, used toilet paper must be packed out in a sealed bag, while in others it can be buried [5].
Pack out any non-biodegradable materials, such as wet wipes or feminine hygiene products, rather than burying them, as they do not break down quickly [5].
In places where digging isn't allowed or isn't possible, pack everything out using a WAG bag or portable toilet system. Never toss used waste bags into pit toilets [6].
It is important to own the act of pooping in the woods and not wait until it becomes urgent [7].
The Deuce, a small, lightweight digging tool, is mentioned as useful for digging catholes. Kula Cloth, a reusable pee cloth, makes outdoor peeing more comfortable [8].
Rules and regulations for pooping in the woods vary depending on the location. Always check local guidelines before heading into the wilderness [9].
In some areas, you may need to pack out your poop using a WAG bag or portable toilet system. In others, burying it is acceptable, provided it is at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites [5].
Lastly, always sanitize your hands after using the bathroom, ensuring you maintain good hygiene practices [10]. Natural materials like leaves, smooth stones, or snow can be used as alternatives to toilet paper, if necessary [11]. If the ground is too rocky or hard to dig, try lifting a flat rock, doing your business underneath, and putting the rock back when you're done [12].
Prepare a poop kit containing supplies like toilet paper, a trowel, hand sanitizer, and a sealable plastic bag before heading into the woods [13].
By following these steps, you can protect natural water sources, prevent the spread of disease, and preserve the wilderness experience for others, aligning perfectly with Leave No Trace ethics [3][5]. Happy camping!
- To preserve the natural beauty of the outdoors, it's vital to maintain proper procedures when taking care of basic necessities during outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and backpacking.
- For pooping in the woods, select a spot at least 200 feet away from any water source, trail, or campsite to minimize contamination and disturbance.
- Before performing your business, dig a cathole 6 to 8 inches deep using a small shovel or trowel to bury the waste and deter animals from digging it up.
- Cover the waste and used toilet paper with the excavated soil, ensuring the spot is disguised and minimizes visual impact without leaving any trace of your presence.
- In areas where digging is not allowed or not possible, consider using a WAG bag or portable toilet system, and never toss used waste bags into pit toilets.
- To effectively practice outdoor-living and maintain a comfortable wilderness experience, prepare a poop kit containing essentials like toilet paper, a trowel, hand sanitizer, and a sealable plastic bag before embarking on any adventure in the great outdoors.
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