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Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve The evening light turns the sky pastel pink and blue and the mountains amber.
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Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
Human Waste

Nothing ruins a camping experience like stumbling across someone's "bathroom." In the wilderness it can be especially jarring. Likewise, human feces carry harmful micro-organisms that easily contaminate water sources. When you are in the park

  • Go at least 200 feet from all potential water sources.
  • Choose a site in organic soil to promote decomposition.
  • Dig a small hole 6 to 8 inches deep.
  • After use, bury completely and replace the tundra. 
  • All paper products, including feminine hygiene products, should be packed out or burned. If you burn your toilet paper, be careful not to ignite any wildfires.
  • Alternatively, leaves and snow make for natural toilet paper.
 
Series depicting a proper cathole.
NPS Photo
A cat-hole before and after.

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Last Updated: August 05, 2010 at 09:09 MST