How do I build a camping bathroom?


       

 

                                 

                                 

                                 

                                                       

How do I build a "bathroom" when camping?

First of all, you should think about commercial products that get rid of this hassle and are more campsite friendly because you aren't dumping waste everywhere. There are camp toilets, which are basically portable toilets where you can store your waste, and shower tents, which are used to give you some privacy when bathing or going to the restroom.

If you don't want to use those or can't afford it, there's still the traditional way, which basically involves digging a latrine or cathole.

Where do I locate it?

You should put your bathroom well away from the campsite if you don't have a camp toilet. It should also be away from any water, trails, buildings, or other places humans might be. This includes any place that looks like it's been used as a campsite before. The idea is that you shouldn't be burying your waste where it will interfere with other people. A good rule of thumb is to walk 90 paces from the nearest location that people would use, and put your bathroom there.

To be responsible you should also look at where you're digging it. Put your waste in organic soil (not rocky areas). Also do it in a place where the sunlight hits the hole - people often try to hide it out in dense forest or grass. That makes it harder for the waste to be turned back into soil - sunlight hitting the ground will make it decompose much more quickly.

What is a cathole?

A cothole is a very small hole that is dug to dispose of human waste. Usually it's a "one-use" thing - you just dig a small hole, do your business, and cover it up. It is the preferred method of waste disposal because it spreads it around. It should be about half a foot deep at least. You might want to put markers on the holes to avoid people digging up the same place on the same camping trip (a rock will do nicely).

What is a latrine?

A latrine is a bigger version - just a hole that is often used repeatedly by the entire camp. Usually you gradually fill it back in - dig it at least a foot deep, and then cover up your waste with a light layer of soil as you use it. When you are done with the latrine, you fill it back completely with the remaining dirt. This is more intrusive and takes longer for the waste to decompose, so it's not preferred.

Do I have to dig a hole every time I urinate?

No. Urine generally doesn't affect the environment or plants and it is not risky to humans (feces can spread parasites, germs, and protozoa if you aren't responsible about burying it). You shouldn't be peeing in your campsite, but you don't have to be as careful about it.

What do I do about my toilet paper?

Anything that is made of paper and not plastic can be burned, but you shouldn't bury it. Keep it away from any sources of water. If you can't burn it, then you need to bring plastic bags and "bag it" to bring back to the campgrounds to dispose of it properly.

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