How do we manage bathroom use while on trail and/or when recreation areas don’t have established restrooms?

We know that using the restroom outdoors may be new for many campers, and we are excited to teach them how to do so appropriately.

We believe that appropriately using the bathroom in the ‘backcountry,’ or when facilities aren’t available, is an empowering experience! We ask that families of all campers, and especially those families that have campers in multiple or hybrid location camps, have campers use the restroom before leaving home. If and when the need arises when on the trail, we teach campers how to scout an appropriate location, how to position their bodies, and how to appropriately bury their waste when needed. We will always protect camper privacy and find locations that allow campers to be safely out of sight of other group members. Additionally, when using the field-based ‘facility’ campers will never be 1:1 with another camper or staff member. We provide active supervision by ensuring we are within listening distance of campers but we do not watch them while they meet their bathroom needs. We work closely with land managers in all camp areas to appropriately dispose of waste and if necessary, we bring materials to carry out the waste rather than bury it. 

Our goal is to teach campers a valuable outdoor skill while supporting them meeting their needs, whenever that need arises!