Cooking in the outdoors is a joy—but it comes with responsibility. Every crumb, grease spill, and leftover bit of food can affect wildlife, contaminate water sources, and damage the very wilderness we came to enjoy.

That’s why Leave No Trace (LNT) cooking practices are essential for every hiker, camper, and outdoor cook. It’s not just about cleanup—it’s about respect for the land.

Did You Know?

Even biodegradable food scraps can take months to break down—and they can draw in animals, cause trail damage, or even spark aggressive wildlife behavior.

Your goal: Cook like you were never there.

Top Leave No Trace Cooking Principles:

🍳 1. Cook at Least 200 Feet From Water Sources

Why it matters: Grease, food runoff, and soap can pollute streams or lakes. Always move cooking 70+ adult steps away from any water source.

🔥 2. Use a Camp Stove When Possible

Why it matters: Camp stoves are low-impact, controlled, and don’t require firewood or damage to the land. They’re ideal in areas with high use or fire restrictions.

🪵 3. If Using a Campfire, Use Established Fire Rings Only

Why it matters: Creating new fire pits scars the land. Only build where fires are allowed and already contained. Keep them small, and burn wood to ash.

🍴 4. Strain & Pack Out Dishwater + Scraps

• Strain all dishwater through a mesh screen

• Scatter greywater 200 feet from camp or trails

• Pack out food bits and oil-soaked paper

“Clean” water doesn’t stay clean if you leave food in it.

🗑 5. Pack Out All Food Waste and Trash

Why it matters: Even orange peels and peanut shells can harm wildlife and take years to break down. If you packed it in—you pack it out.

Bonus Tips:

• Use minimal soap (or none)

• Wipe dishes with a bandana or paper towel before washing

• Plan simple meals to reduce cleanup

• Teach kids LNT early—they learn fast!

Why This Matters

Cooking outdoors is a privilege—and with privilege comes stewardship. Leaving no trace means the next camper finds a clean, undisturbed place to explore, just like you did.

And more importantly, it keeps nature wild, animals healthy, and our access open for generations to come.

Because the best meal in nature leaves only memories behind.