Camping Toilets and Human Waste

Use established toilets whenever available. If there are none, check the land manager's requirements before packing a shovel. Some places require all human waste to be carried out; catholes are not universally allowed. BLM human waste disposal

A wooden vault-toilet building with accessibility signs and a paved approach stands among trees. — An established vault toilet at Cold Springs Campground. National Park Service · Public domain in the United States (U.S. government work). Resized to fit within 1600 x 1600 pixels without cropping; WebP encoding for web delivery.

Where catholes are permitted and suitable, follow local instructions for location and depth. NPS's organic-soil example uses a small trowel to dig a hole 6–8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water and trails. That example is not permission to dig at your destination. Pack out used toilet paper, wipes, and hygiene products in suitable sealed containment; never burn them. NPS human waste guidance

For car camping, a portable commode can provide a familiar seat. A privacy tent adds screening but does not collect, sanitize, or dispose of sewage. Choose an accepted collection system: appropriate waste bags for a compatible toilet, or a holding-tank toilet with an approved emptying point. Carry enough capacity for the entire trip and an unexpected delay.

Read both the system instructions and local disposal rules. Confirm where the specific waste is accepted before departure. Do not put bagged toilet waste into a vault toilet or empty a holding tank onto the ground. Seal and transport waste securely away from food and drinking-water equipment.

Pack handwashing supplies and keep the bathroom setup separate from meal preparation. Contain graywater separately and follow its disposal rules too. The right system is the one you can use and dispose of responsibly. Return to the complete camping guide.

Sources and further reading