Guide for Defecating in Forested Areas (Camping, Hiking, or Backpacking)

Sure thing, here's a revised and restructured version of the guide on how to poop in the woods while adhering to Leave No Trace principles:

Pooping in the Woods: Do It Right and Leave No Trace

When you're deep in the woods and nature calls, it's essential to handle your business responsibly to minimize your impact on the environment. Here's a simple guide on how to do it the right way:

1. Embrace the Situation

Pooping in the woods might feel awkward initially, but remember, humans have been doing it since the dawn of time, and toilets are a modern invention. So let go of any reservations and get down to business.

2. Know the Rules

Before you head out into the wild, educate yourself on Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines help ensure that you're pooping outdoors without ruining the landscape or creating problems for future visitors. Here are some key points:

Find a spot at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites to dig your cathole
Rules about toilet paper disposal vary, so research the area beforehand to know if you should pack it out or bury it
Never leave used tampons, pads, or wet wipes behind - pack them out in a sealed bag
In deserts or tight canyons, use a waste bag and pack everything out
On big rivers, pee directly into the water to reduce shoreline pollution

3. Prepare Your Kit

Before heading into the woods, put together a poop kit with the necessary supplies, such as:

Toilet paper or natural alternatives (leaves, smooth rocks, or snow)
A sealed plastic bag or WAG bag for TP (if required)
A trowel (digging tool) like The Deuce
Hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap for cleaning up
A Kula Cloth (for women, optional)

4. Choose Your Spot Wisely

Select a spot that is higher ground, with loose, rich soil, and some cover for privacy. Make sure it's at least 200 feet away from any water sources, trails, or campsites. Also, consider digging a shared latrine in busy areas or for longer stays, but only if local rules allow.

5. Dig the Cathole

Dig a hole about 4-6 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep using your trowel. If the ground is too rocky or hard, use a flat rock to do your business underneath. In some areas, digging isn't allowed, so make sure to research regulations beforehand and pack everything out using a waste bag or portable toilet system.

6. Pick Your Position

Find a comfortable position that keeps your clothes out of the way. Some popular methods include the squat, throne, tripod, and assist. Remember to test your stance before committing.

7. Clean Up

Use only what you need of toilet paper, if allowed, or opt for natural materials like leaves, smooth rocks, or snow. Wet wipes don't break down, so remember to pack them out as well. Clean up with a backcountry bidet if available, or use hand sanitizer to maintain good hygiene.

8. Cover It Up

Fill the cathole with dirt until it's level with the ground, then cover the area with leaves or other natural materials to blend in. Sanitize your hands thoroughly after the cleanup.

9. Maintain Good Backcountry Hygiene

Always sanitize your hands after using the bathroom and consider washing them once a day when backpacking. Dump dirty water on bare soil, not on plants or lichen-covered rocks, and pack a small towel that dries fast to help with cleanup.

10. Be Prepared for Special Circumstances

In some areas, you'll need to pack out your poop or use a portable toilet system. Always follow local regulations, and never toss used waste bags into pit toilets. Pack out all menstrual supplies, and consider using a pee bottle for middle-of-the-night bathroom runs.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a cleaner, healthier, and safer wilderness experience for both yourself and future visitors. Minimizing your impact on the environment will help maintain the natural beauty of the outdoors and keep it unspoiled for generations to come.

While backpacking, remember that adhering to Leave No Trace principles is crucial for maintaining the pristine beauty of nature.
To prepare for your outdoor adventure, make sure you have the right gear, such as a trowel, toilet paper, and a Kula Cloth, to handle your business responsibly.
When hiking along trails or camping outdoors, be mindful of the surroundings and choose a spot at least 200 feet from water sources and trails for your cathole.
Embrace the lifestyle of outdoor-living by learning how to poop in the woods with ease and minimal impact on nature's resources.
In your home-and-garden, you may appreciate the versatility of The Deuce, a trowel that can double as a useful tool for gardening or digger of camping catholes.