How To Poop While Camping: Leave No Trace Bathroom Guide

What is the best way to poop while camping? The best way to poop while camping is to follow Leave No Trace principles. This means either using a designated camping toilet, digging a cathole, or packing out your waste with a wag bag. Keep reading to learn the details about each method and how to practice responsible backcountry sanitation.

Camping is a fantastic way to connect with nature, but it also brings unique challenges, especially when nature calls. Knowing how to handle your business responsibly is crucial for protecting the environment and ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. This guide dives deep into the world of backcountry sanitation, providing you with the knowledge and skills needed to poop responsibly while camping.

Image Source: i0.wp.com

The Importance of Responsible Backcountry Sanitation

Why does how you poop in the woods matter? It boils down to a few key reasons:

• Environmental Protection: Human waste can contaminate water sources, spread diseases, and pollute the natural landscape.
• Minimizing Impact: Proper disposal prevents unsightly messes and reduces the impact on delicate ecosystems.
• Respect for Others: Nobody wants to stumble upon someone else’s improperly buried waste.
• Preventing the Spread of Disease: Pathogens in human waste can survive for extended periods and pose a health risk to humans and wildlife.

Method 1: The Cathole Method

The cathole method is a widely accepted Leave No Trace practice for disposing of human waste in the backcountry. It’s simple, effective, and minimizes environmental impact when done correctly.

What is the Cathole Method?

The cathole method involves digging a small hole, depositing your waste, and then burying it. The soil helps decompose the waste naturally.

Step-by-Step Guide to Digging a Cathole

1. Location, Location, Location:
   • Find a spot at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) away from any water source (lakes, rivers, streams), trails, and campsites. This prevents contamination of water and minimizes the chance of others encountering your waste.
   • Choose a sunny location, if possible. Sunlight helps break down waste faster.
   • Consider the soil type. Soft, organic soil is ideal because it contains microorganisms that aid decomposition. Avoid areas with rocky or heavily root-bound soil.
2. Digging the Hole:
   • Use a lightweight trowel or poop shovel (more on this later) to dig a hole that is 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches in diameter. Think of it as the size of a bread plate.
   • The depth is crucial for proper decomposition.
3. Do Your Business:
   • Squat over the hole and do your business. Aim carefully!
   • If you use toilet paper, use as little as possible and pack it out in a zip-lock bag (more on this later). Alternatively, you can bury it in the cathole, but it decomposes very slowly. Natural alternatives to toilet paper, such as smooth rocks or large leaves, can be used, but ensure that you can positively identify plant matter and are not allergic.
4. Bury the Waste:
   • Carefully fill the hole with the soil you removed earlier.
   • Mix some loose leaves or other organic matter into the soil to help with decomposition.
   • Thoroughly cover the area, and disguise it with natural materials like leaves and twigs to make it look undisturbed.
5. Wash Your Hands:
   • Sanitize your hands thoroughly with hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap and water. This is critical to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Cathole Method: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Simple and easy to implement	Requires digging a hole
Minimal gear required	Not suitable for all environments (e.g., rocky or frozen ground)
Effective in many environments when done correctly	Relies on proper technique

Method 2: Packing It Out (Wag Bags)

In some environments, digging a cathole is not feasible or appropriate. This is where packing out your waste comes in. This method is particularly important in sensitive areas like:

• Alpine environments: Thin soils and slow decomposition rates make catholes ineffective.
• Desert environments: Lack of moisture hinders decomposition.
• Areas with high recreational use: Concentrated waste can overwhelm the natural environment.
• Areas near water sources: Protects against contamination.

What is a Wag Bag?

A “Wag Bag” (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) is a specially designed bag containing chemicals that solidify and deodorize human waste. They are lightweight, easy to use, and provide a sanitary way to pack out your poop.

How to Use a Wag Bag

1. Preparation: Open the wag bag and familiarize yourself with its contents. It typically includes a waste bag, a gelling agent, and a toilet paper/wipe.
2. Position the Bag: Place the bag on the ground or in a portable camping toilet (discussed later).
3. Do Your Business: Deposit your waste directly into the bag.
4. Add the Gelling Agent: Sprinkle the gelling agent over the waste. This solidifies the waste and helps control odor.
5. Seal the Bag: Securely seal the bag according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Pack It Out: Place the sealed bag in a designated receptacle or your backpack. Be sure to double-bag if necessary to prevent leaks or odors.
7. Proper Disposal: Dispose of the wag bag in an appropriate trash receptacle or follow local regulations for human waste disposal. Some campgrounds or ranger stations have designated disposal sites.

Wag Bag: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Suitable for sensitive environments	Requires carrying waste
Sanitary and odor-controlled	Can be expensive
Can be used in any location	Requires proper disposal

Method 3: Using a Camping Toilet

A camping toilet offers a more comfortable and convenient option, especially for longer trips or individuals with mobility issues. There are several types of camping toilets available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Types of Camping Toilets

• Bucket Toilets: A simple bucket with a toilet seat. These are inexpensive and easy to use, but they require a separate disposal method, such as wag bags or a pit latrine.
• Portable Flush Toilets: These toilets have a holding tank for fresh water and a separate tank for waste. They offer a more “normal” toilet experience but are heavier and require more maintenance.
• Composting Toilets: These toilets use natural decomposition processes to break down waste. They are more environmentally friendly but require more space and specific composting materials.

How to Use a Camping Toilet

1. Set Up: Choose a level and stable location for your toilet.
2. Prepare the Toilet: Depending on the type of toilet, you may need to add water, chemicals, or composting materials.
3. Use the Toilet: Do your business as you would with a regular toilet.
4. Clean the Toilet: After each use, wipe down the seat and any other surfaces that may have come into contact with waste.
5. Dispose of Waste: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disposing of waste. This may involve emptying the holding tank into a designated dump station, burying the waste in a pit latrine, or using wag bags.

Camping Toilet: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
More comfortable and convenient	Can be bulky and heavy
Suitable for various environments	Requires maintenance and cleaning
Offers a more “normal” toilet experience	Can be expensive

Essential Gear for Backcountry Sanitation

Having the right gear can make a big difference in your backcountry sanitation practices. Here are some essential items to consider:

• Poop Shovel/Trowel: A lightweight trowel for digging catholes. Look for one made of durable plastic or titanium.
• Toilet Paper: Use unscented, biodegradable toilet paper, or pack it out. Alternatively, consider using natural alternatives.
• Hand Sanitizer: An absolute must for killing germs after you’ve done your business.
• Wag Bags: For packing out waste in sensitive areas.
• Camping Toilet: For added comfort and convenience.
• Zip-lock Bags: For packing out used toilet paper.
• Biodegradable Soap: For washing your hands when water is available.
• Moist wipes: Moist wipes can be used for cleaning. Make sure to pack it out.

Cathole vs. Latrine: What’s the Difference?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, a cathole and a latrine are different. A cathole is a small, individual hole for a single bowel movement, whereas a latrine is a larger, communal pit toilet used by multiple people over a longer period. Latrines are typically used in established campsites or base camps where a larger group is staying for an extended time. Digging a latrine requires careful consideration of location and construction to minimize environmental impact. Most individual campers or small groups will use the cathole method. Digging a latrine is often discouraged unless you will remain in one spot for an extended period with a large number of people.

Tips for Reducing Toilet Paper Use

Reducing your toilet paper use is environmentally friendly and helps minimize the amount of waste you need to pack out. Here are some tips:

• Use Natural Alternatives: Consider using smooth rocks, large leaves (if you can positively identify them and are not allergic), or snow (in winter) as alternatives to toilet paper.
• Use a Bidet: A portable bidet or spray bottle can be used to rinse after doing your business, reducing the need for toilet paper.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Washing with soap and water is the best way to clean yourself after using the bathroom.

Considerations for Women

Women have some additional considerations when it comes to backcountry sanitation.

• Menstrual Hygiene: Pack out all menstrual products, including tampons, pads, and wipes. Use a zip-lock bag or a specially designed waste bag for menstrual products. Consider using a menstrual cup as a reusable and environmentally friendly alternative.
• Urination: Urinating in the woods is generally less of a concern than defecation, but it’s still important to do it responsibly. Urinate at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. Consider using a pee rag (a small piece of cloth designated for wiping after urination) to reduce toilet paper use.

Keeping Your Outdoor Bathroom Private

While the backcountry is vast, maintaining privacy is still important.

• Choose Your Spot Wisely: Select a location that is secluded and out of sight from trails and campsites.
• Use Natural Barriers: Utilize trees, bushes, or rocks to create a natural screen.
• Communicate with Your Group: Let your group members know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Fathoming Leave No Trace Principles

Leave No Trace is a set of ethical guidelines that promote responsible outdoor recreation. When it comes to backcountry sanitation, the Leave No Trace principles emphasize:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations and concerns for the area you’ll be visiting.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Avoid fragile vegetation and soil.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack it in, pack it out.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a camp stove for cooking.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding them.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect the peace and quiet of the wilderness.

Grasping Backcountry Sanitation Regulations

Be aware of any specific regulations regarding backcountry sanitation in the area you’ll be visiting. Some parks and wilderness areas may have restrictions on cathole digging or require the use of wag bags. Check with the local ranger station or land management agency for the most up-to-date information.

Camping Hygiene Beyond Pooping

While poop disposal is a primary concern, overall camping hygiene is also important.

• Handwashing: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Water Purification: Purify all water before drinking it.
• Food Safety: Store food properly to prevent contamination.
• Trash Disposal: Pack out all trash.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I burn my toilet paper? Burning toilet paper is generally discouraged due to the risk of starting a wildfire. It’s best to pack it out.
• What if I can’t dig a cathole because the ground is too hard? If you can’t dig a cathole, use a wag bag to pack out your waste.
• Is it okay to bury my dog’s poop? Yes, it’s okay to bury your dog’s poop using the same principles as a cathole.
• How do I deal with diarrhea while camping? Diarrhea can be a serious health concern, especially in the backcountry. Stay hydrated, consider carrying electrolyte supplements, and seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen. Use wag bags to pack out waste, and ensure you wash your hands often.
• Are there any special considerations for winter camping? Winter camping presents unique challenges for backcountry sanitation. Digging a cathole in frozen ground can be difficult or impossible. Use a wag bag to pack out your waste.
• How to build a camping toilet? You can build a simple camping toilet using a bucket and a toilet seat. Line the bucket with a wag bag or a trash bag.
• What is human waste disposal camping? Refers to the safe and responsible management of human feces and urine in outdoor or wilderness settings, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
• Where to buy a poop shovel? Poop shovels can be purchased at most outdoor retailers or online.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your camping trip is not only enjoyable but also environmentally responsible. Remember, Leave No Trace is not just a set of rules, it’s a mindset. Let’s all do our part to protect the beauty and integrity of the natural world.