4 Tips on Using the Bathroom in the Forest

If you're planning on embarking on a camping trip, chances are high that you'll be releasing your bodily waste in the wilderness. At first, many people laugh at the thought of relieving themselves because the concept makes them nervous. Going to the bathroom in the forest doesn't have to be a challenge; with these tips you’ll be able to get over the reservations you have about using a restroom without plumbing.

How to use the Bathroom in the Forest

1. Dig a Hole

   Once you are ready to relieve yourself, find a rock or bring along a small shovel and dig a hole. You'll want to make sure that the hole is deep enough to refill with dirt and cover your waste once you're finished. Once the hole is deep enough, relieve yourself inside.

2. Use Leaves to Wipe or Bring Toilet Paper Along

   Once you're finished, grab a few leaves nearby. It is incredibly important that you use either dead leaves free of dirt/debris or ones you are sure aren't poisonous. If you don’t think you’ll be certain, bring along a roll of toilet paper.

3. Fill the Hole with Dirt

   Once you're finished, throw in the used leaves and fill the hole with dirt. Place a rock on top of the filled hole. This will help keep animals from accessing the waste in the ground. If you used toilet paper, place it in a Ziplock bag and take it back to your campsite.

4. Use "Smearing" for Urination/Defecation Above the Tree-line

   If you find that you're on a mountain above the tree-line, relieve yourself on a rock rather than peeing downhill. If you use this spot to defecate, use the toilet paper to "smear" a bit of feces across the flat rock. This can be disturbing, but it keeps the environment safe. The feces will naturally dry and flake off in the sun later.

Whenever you're ready to relieve yourself, make sure you're away from areas that are highly trafficked by people or animals. This helps to keep the environment safe your nerves calm.