Leave no trace behind means leaving an area the way it was when you got there. Showing no signs that you have ever been there is the way we all should treat our forests, wilderness, and our country.
You can do this by learning some basic principles when going camping. It is through education, that we all will learn how leaving no trace, will become a part of our camping and really, our every day lives.
Plan your trip carefully, by talking to the ranger. They will give you all the info you need for your camping stay. Learn the area in which you plan on staying by using maps and keep informed of all the weather information in that particular area.
When hiking, stay on the trails and walk in a single file, like when you were in school. This keeps everything, on each side of the trail, just as it was. Stay alert for any changes in the trail, such as rocks, sandy areas, mud or puddles of water.
Choose your camp site carefully. You want it to be at least 200 ft. from a water source and the trails. Your cooking area should be about 200 ft. from your sleeping area. The same with your food and toiletries.
Keep your garbage picked up at all times. Take the least amount of items that you leave you with garbage after use. If you see anything that does not belong, throw it away in a bag that you brought with you and take it out with you when you leave.
Find out all rules regarding fires, the ranger will know. Use the appropriate camp fire ring, fire pan, or build a mound fire and keep the fire small. Make sure it is completely out before you leave the ares. Use plenty of water and scatter the ashes. There should be little to no trace you were there.
Be courteous to others including the wildlife that live in the area. Keep a low profile and enjoy nature at it's best.
