Care for the Earth
We follow the “Leave No Trace” principles of camping in order to reduce our impact on the land and leave it even more beautiful than we found it. Camping and building fires tramples vegetation and disturbs soils. By camping at sites that have had previous activity, we help protect the desert from further damage, so the native plants and animals can thrive in their delicately balanced home.
We follow the “Leave No Trace” principles of camping:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
Obtain necessary permits and be sure to notify others of your travel itinerary.
Carry a good map and familiarize yourself with desert travel and survival skills before beginning your trip. - Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Reuse existing campsites.
Do not make camp in a dry wash-flash floods develop quickly in the desert.
Campsites must be more than 200 yards from any water source. - Dispose of Waste Properly
Store all food and garbage in a manner that will prevent access by wildlife. Carry plastic bags and pack out all trash and ash.
Bury human waste in catholes 6-8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Pack out all toilet paper and hygiene products. Some sites require that human waste be packed out. - Leave What You Find
Disturbing, defacing, or collecting plants, animals, rocks, and historic or archeological objects is prohibited. These resources should be left as they are found for all to enjoy. - Minimize Campfire Impacts
Reuse existing fire rings or use a portable firepan (be sure to pack out ashes). Do not leave fires smoldering or unattended. Cutting or collecting any wood, including downed wood, is prohibited. All firewood must be brought in. - Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
This copyrighted information is based on publications of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. For more information, please visit www.LNT.org.
