The crew on the trail in
Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park, TN

 

Low-Impact Camping

We cannot hike and camp in the wilderness without making some impact on the environment. At the very least, our footprints impact the trails and surrounding wilderness. Our Crew Motto has always been "Take only picture, leave only footprints." There are a few things that you can do to help protect our environment as you enjoy it:

(1) The Crew will not take part in activities that cause permanet damage to the environment.

(2) The Crew will conduct activities that leave "no trace" or at least minimal impact on the environment.

(3) The Crew will respect the wildlife of the area.

(4) The Crew will respect local culture.

(5) The Crew will select routes of travel where impact to the environment is minimal. In fragile areas, routes of travel will be on established trails, whenever possible.

(6) If human waste is disposed in the natural environment, it will be done in the least invasive manner.

(7) When camping off the trail, the Crew will set up camp and conduct activites with the least visual and noise impact possible.

(8) When soap is used in the wilderness, it will be only biodegradable and in appropriate portions.

(9) Washing will be done at least 100 feet away from water sources.

(10) Cooking and food handling will be done in a manner that does not affect or attract wildlife.

(11) Food will be properly stored in reusable containers whenever possible.

(12) If food is not used, it will be carried out. If this is not possible, it will be disposed in the least invasive manner.

(13) Backpack stoves will be used whenever possible.

(14) Fires will be built only when appropriate. Minimal invasive techniques will be used will constructing and maintaining the fire. The Crew will insure that the fire is "cold" before leaving the camp area.

(15) Tents, tarps, and hammocks will be used instead of constructing shelters from surrounding resources.

(16) Tents, tarps, and hammocks will be set up in an environmentally appropriate manner.

(17) Permanent shelters will be used instead of tents whenever such shelters are available. The Crew will insure that the shelter is in better shape when we leave than it was when we arrived.

(18) Take only pictures, leave only footprints.