Long-term Wilderness Camp Setup

Choose elevated ground 50+ feet from water sources to avoid contamination and flooding. Identify reliable water (streams, springs) before committing to site. Position camp visible from nearby high point—you must see threats approaching. Locate natural wind breaks or rock outcroppings for shelter. Ensure escape routes exist in multiple directions (not boxed in by terrain). Avoid dead trees, loose rocks, or hazard zones. Test ground firmness and drainage by digging test hole.

Locate camp at least 100 feet from animal trails and carcasses. Wet ground or snow melt areas flood rapidly.

Position sleeping area upwind and away from cooking zone. Place water source downhill and downstream from latrine (minimum 100 feet separation). Create central gathering area with clear sightlines. Leave open space around shelter perimeter for visibility and movement. Organize supplies in organized clusters: tools, food, medical, fuel. Mark walking paths to prevent tripping hazards at night. Position defensive positions (high ground, clear views) around perimeter if security concerns exist.

Never site sleeping area directly downwind from latrine or waste piles.

Dig latrine 100+ feet from water sources and at least 50 feet downwind/downslope from camp. Dig hole 12+ inches deep, wider at base. Create screen using branches, natural barriers, or canvas to maintain dignity and prevent sight lines into camp. Cover waste daily with dirt or ash. For long-term sites, use secondary latrine when primary reaches 6 inches from surface. Pack out toilet paper in sealed bags (don't burn or bury—decomposes slowly). Sanitize hands after using latrine using water bucket and soap.

Improper latrine placement contaminates water and spreads disease. Never defecate upstream of water sources.

Establish grey water disposal area 100 feet from water sources—dig shallow sump pit. Strain food particles before dumping. Compost organic waste (veggie scraps, fruit) in designated area 50+ feet downwind. Burn burnable trash (cardboard, clean paper) completely; scatter ash or bury mineral ash. Store non-burnable trash in sealed containers for removal. Wash hands after handling waste. Maintain separate areas for personal hygiene, laundry, and cooking.

Food scraps attract predators. Incomplete ash disposal spreads uncontrolled fire risk.

Store food 100+ feet from sleeping area and upwind. Hang meat and fish in mesh bags from poles 10+ feet high and 6+ feet from tree trunks (bear hang). Use bear boxes or sealed containers if available. Cover all food, grease, and waste. Never leave food unattended or unsecured. Separate cooking area from storage area. Use minimal quantities daily to reduce attractant amounts. For long-term camps, rotate storage locations to prevent animal habituation.

Unsecured food attracts bears, wolves, and smaller predators that may attack camp. A bear with food access will defend the area aggressively.

Spring/Summer: Increase distance from water (flooding risk), manage insects with smoky fire, clear vegetation for visibility. Fall: Prepare for temperature drops, secure shelter against wind and rain, monitor weather changes. Winter: Insulate ground with logs or leaves, build windbreaks above sleeping level, maintain larger fire pit away from camp, prevent snow accumulation on shelter. Year-round: Inspect shelter daily for damage, monitor water level changes, adjust food storage for local predators and season.

Seasonal flooding, storms, and freeze cycles can destroy poorly sited camps. Inspect and reinforce structures weekly.