The Unwritten Rule Of Using Soap On A Camping Trip

Camping is a great way to enjoy nature. There's something peaceful about pitching a tent beneath a starry sky, drifting off to the hum of crickets, and waking to a crisp morning with sunlight sparkling on the dewy grass. But after a few days, you might start to miss the benefits of indoor plumbing. While many campgrounds offer bathhouses, some don't. So how do you stay clean and avoid bringing the smell of sweat and campfire smoke into your sleeping bag?

Well, the National Park Service recommends bringing extra clothes, using baby wipes, or simply rinsing off in a nearby lake or stream. If you need to wash clothes or dishes, even supposedly "eco-friendly" soaps, lotions, sunscreen, and bug spray should be used sparingly — and at least 200 feet from your campsite or any body of water — to protect wildlife and prevent contamination. When you're done and need to dispose of it, dig a hole or spread it on top of the soil. You can also use these lifesaving DIY camping hacks, like single-use soap shavings that can be used on dry hands with limited water.

While personal hygiene is obviously important, finding alternative ways to stay clean while camping helps save the environment. As part of the National Park Service's "Leave No Trace" policy, keeping your campsite clear of trash, chemicals, and other waste is imperative to preserving local ecosystems. Even biodegradable soaps don't break down instantly in streams, lakes, or soil. Suds can alter water chemistry, harm fish, and disrupt the balance of plants and microorganisms that keep the environment healthy. Soap residue can also attract curious wildlife to your campsite, creating potentially dangerous encounters. It's also important to keep your fire pit eco-friendly to prevent wildfires. On your next camping trip, try these campfire alternatives to enjoy all the warmth and cozy vibes of a fire without the risk of sparks spreading.

Camping is all about enjoying the outdoors without leaving a mark. By using soap carefully, disposing of it properly, and keeping your campsite clean, you can stay clean without harming the environment. So, the next time you grab your tent and head into the wilderness, follow this unwritten rule to protect wildlife and keep lakes and streams clean.