How To Setup Camp

Quite often backpackers have no choice but to use established campsites.  Even in the backcountry there are semi-developed camping areas with latrines, tent-sites and food hangs.  As you extend beyond these areas, you must choose a place to camp for the night.  The following guidelines will help you do this.

Location Selection

 Before you head into an area it is a good idea to check with the local park warden office about the trail, campsite conditions and if there have been any animal sightings or other problems.

Campsite

Choose a campsite that provides you with the following

• water supply (ideally a minimum of 50m away)
• wind protection (in 'buggier' areas you may want a breezier site!)
•  flat and dry areas for tents
• durable area where you won't trample fragile vegetation (sand or gravel patches are the most durable)
• if possible, camp below the treeline where vegetation is more durable
• avoid areas that attract animals, such as animal trails, ridges and steam beds, berry patches and places that are near garbage.
• look for a good spot to hang your foo, which should be downwind from your tenting area
• keep away from banks and streams so that you don't contaminate the water
• consider large enough spot that will allow 50m between the tenting area, the cooking area and the food hang.

Tenting Area

• choosing and area that will drain well in case of rain/snow
• look for flat and dry areas
•  put up your tent in a spot that not crush fragile vegetation
• check for hazards before you pitch your tent such as dead, standing trees, holes or anything that could suprise you in the middle of the night
• if you have no choice but to pitch your tent above the treeline, move your tent every second night to help preserve the vegetation and avoid walking the same paths so you do not create trails

Food Hang

The most effective way to hang your food is from a sturdy tree.  You will need a long rope and some people also bring a carabiner to attach the food bag to the rope.  Some types of suitable rope are 5mm kernmantle rope (strong but heavier) or 3mm parachute cord (light but not as strong).  If your food is heavy, you may need more than one food hang.

Requirements for a proper food hang:

• at least 50m downwind from your camping area
• make sure branches are strong enough to hold your food
• branches need to be long enough for the rope to be 2m away from the trunk
• the food bag should be 3-4m from the ground and 1.5m hanging from the originating branch
• keep it as simple as possible

Latrine Area

It is very important to have proper latrine etiquette for the cleanliness of your camp and for the environment.  If you are travelling in a group, make sure people wash their hands after using the toilet.  Pack along some hand-sanitizer!

Important Considerations:

• to dig a cat hole for single use, dig down 15-20 cm into the active, organic topsoil and then cover it up and leave no trace
• some areas may require you to pack out your waste, so make sure you know the regulations before you head in
• if you are a large group, you can dig a trench and cover it up as you use it.  This allow you some control over where you are going
• you should carry out toilet paper.  Toilet paper takes a long time to decompose especially in colder climates
• Some women prefer to use a "pee bandana" over longer trips which they tie on the outside of their packs and wash each day
• the latrine area should be at least 60m away from any water source

Tarps

It is important to bring along a tarp for shelter from the elements in case of an emergency and for cooking.  It can make camping more enjoyable and help keep people and gear dry.