1. 5 Tips for Environmental Camping<br /> <br /> We all enjoy making our way out to our favorite spot. Sometimes it’s a secret space, but many times it’s a community thing. Everyone has a duty to keep these places pristine. None of us enjoys getting to our perfect place and finding things left or destroyed. Here are five things to keep in mind as we enjoy the outdoors.<br />1) Plan for your trip. Even if it’s just a few minutes to ensure you have everything you need. Remember that part of everything you need is a way to take it all back out with you.<br />2) Respect your neighbors. Whether it is that you have a radio or are a large group. Be aware of those around you. Not everyone, including the wildlife, wants to be kept up until 2 am listening to your party.<br />3) Watch where you camp. Always check out the area you want to set your tent up in. It should be solid, stable ground and not on a hill. If the ground is not suitable for camping, even putting tent stakes in the ground can cause it to slide and wash away.<br />4) Be aware of your fire. Don’t leave campfires unattended or make them able to be seen from space. Even in wet places grasses can dry out and it only takes a moment for a fire to move out of control.<br />5) Always respect the wildlife. We may visit but that is their home. It should be left as it was found, or as it should be. All waste should be carried out; trees and other plants shouldn’t be removed. This has as much to do with invasive species as it does with not removing animals homes.<br />If we all take a moment we can leave our favorite places in their best shape so our children can enjoy the same beauty we do.<br />Resources:<br />North Dakota State Parks<br />The Action Blog<br />Bluegrass Music and Camping<br />