The best campsites feel untouched, as if you were the first person ever to sit by that river or under those trees. Keeping them that way is easy when you build a few simple habits into every trip.

1. Plan ahead and prepare

Check the weather, the rules for your campground and any fire restrictions before you leave. Pack meals in reusable containers so you carry less trash in the first place.

2. Stay on durable ground

Walk on established trails and set up camp on existing sites, rock, gravel or dry grass. Keep tents at least 200 feet (about 70 big steps) from lakes and streams.

3. Pack it in, pack it out

Everything you bring comes home with you, including food scraps, wrappers and fruit peels. A spare zip bag in every pocket makes this effortless.

4. Leave what you find

Take photos of wildflowers, rocks and old relics instead of taking them home. Avoid building structures or digging trenches around your tent.

5. Keep campfires small

Use existing fire rings, burn only small sticks found on the ground and let the fire burn down to ash. Drown it, stir it and feel for heat before you walk away.

6. Respect wildlife

Watch animals from a distance and never feed them. Store food and scented items in a vehicle, bear canister or locker where required.

7. Be kind to other campers

Keep voices and music low, give way on the trail and let nature’s sounds take center stage, especially after dark.

Small choices add up. Share your favorite low-impact tip with the community in the Campfire Connect app, and see you around the fire.

Photo: Hopetoun Falls, via Wikimedia Commons.