One of the biggest fears that keep people from backpacking is “What happens if I need to use the bathroom?” Well, I’m here to tell you it is nothing to fear and is about the most natural thing you will do in nature. There are a few guidelines and techniques to follow and you can overcome that fear.
A crucial part of being a good backpacker is being prepared to dispose of your bathroom waste so that it doesn’t pose a hazard to wildlife or to other people. It is important to keep your toilet area, or “cathole” well away from your campsite and any water source.
Disposing of human waste properly is so important that it is #3 of the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. With millions of people visiting mother nature each year, we must protect our lands and the wildlife that lives there.
Note: This article is part of a series on how to backpack. See more on Backpacking 101
How to Poop in the Woods
When researching and planning your adventure, keep in mind that the average person has a bowel movement at least once a day. But the average person isn’t going to be miles from any bathroom as you will be. It is a fear, but like all fears, it can be overcome. Do not let it hold you back from accomplishing your adventure.
With proper planning and packing, you will be one with nature. If the bears, rabbits, and deer can do it, then so can you. We have to remember though when camping overnight far away from a bathroom, always bring along the following items:
Hand Sanitizer or soap – just because you are in nature doesn’t mean you can’t wash your hands.
Toilet paper – Unless you prefer using leaves, grass, or smooth rocks, biodegradable TP is highly recommended to bring.
Trowel – this will help with digging a hole for your poop to be buried in. Much easier than using your hands.
FIND A LOCATION
When you need to drop trou, pick a location that is good for you, nature, and everyone else. Here are some guidelines to follow when choosing your spot.
- Follow the rule of 200ft – a spot at least 200ft from any trail, water source, campsite, or parking area
- An area with good soil (dark and rich in color) that will be easy to dig
- A less traveled, off-the-beaten-path, kind of area
- An elevated area where rainwater does not rush through
- If camping in one site for several days, find a big enough area so you do not go to the same spot twice
DISPOSABLE METHOD
The most common disposable method is burying your turds in the ground. Dig a “cathole” about 4 inches across and 6-8 inches deep with a trowel.
Depending on where you are camping, there may be specific rules about disposing of human waste. Some wilderness areas require you to pack out your scat, or at least your used toilet paper.
Some State parks and wilderness areas have pit toilets available for use. A pit toilet is a type of toilet that collects human poop in a hole in the ground. When planning your trip, note the location and distance these will be from you or the trail you will be taking.
PICK A POSITION
Nothing can replace sitting on our thrones at home but at least there are proven effective and sanitary ways. Here are a few ways to position yourself when pooping in the woods.
The Squat – With your pants pulled down to your knees and your feet apart for balance, squat down into a bottom-out low position. Use your hand to keep your pants clear. Be aware of gravity when you squat and make sure your feet are uphill from where your urine and turds will land.
The Assist – Find a tree stump or fallen tree and use it to sit on. With your pants down to your knees, scoot back as far as you can so your bum is hanging over. Be careful not to lose your balance and proceed to drop scat.
The Tripod – Look for a strong yet slimmer tree for assistance. With your pants to your knees, grip the tree firmly and squat. With your feet out wide and your bottom positioned out, go for it.
CLEAN UP
The use of biodegradable TP is highly recommended if you are committed to using the “cathole” method. Use TP sparingly and make sure to bury it completely. No one likes finding used toilet paper while enjoying mother nature.
Some wilderness areas require you to pack out your scat, or at least your used toilet paper. Use a resealable plastic bag or a commercial “WAG bag” to pack out your business.
If a pit toilet is available for use, be sure to use biodegradable TP to help the decomposition. Remember to close the lid to keep the smell minimal and never put your trash into pit toilets.
CONCLUSION
Do not let the fear of pooping in the woods keep you from your adventure. I love the outdoors and nature and want you to experience it for yourselves. Bring your hand sanitizer, trowel, and biodegradable TP with you. Remember, if you do not pack out your waste, properly bury your TP. We all need to do our part keeping the parks and nature clean and pollution free.
Backpacking is an experience all should have in their life. If you are looking for great tips and information about backpacking, check out the recent articles on this site. Remember to research, plan, and prepare so you can answer the call to adventure.