Leave No Trace at Aspen Grove
One of the best parts of camping is getting to experience nature up close. At Aspen Grove, we’re lucky to be surrounded by beautiful trails, wildlife, and open spaces—and it’s up to all of us to help keep it that way.
You may have heard of Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics—a simple set of principles designed to protect natural spaces while still enjoying them fully.
Here’s how to apply those principles both around the campground and when you head out exploring.
The 7 Leave No Trace Principles (Made Practical)
1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
A little preparation goes a long way.
At the campground:
- Know site rules and amenities
- Bring what you need to avoid unnecessary waste
On the trails:
- Check weather and trail conditions
- Pack water, snacks, and proper footwear
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
Stick to areas designed for use.
At the campground:
- Stay on designated roads, paths, and campsites
- Avoid cutting through unmarked natural areas
On the trails:
- Stay on marked trails
- Walk through mud—not around it—to prevent widening paths
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
The golden rule: Pack it in, pack it out.
At the campground:
- Use provided garbage and recycling bins
- Keep your site clean and food stored properly
On the trails:
- Take all garbage with you
- Use washrooms when available, or follow proper backcountry practices
4. Leave What You Find
Let others enjoy it too.
At the campground:
- Don’t pick plants or remove natural features
- Respect shared spaces and amenities
On the trails:
- Leave rocks, plants, and historical items where they are
- Take photos—not souvenirs
5. Minimize Campfire Impact
Fires are part of the experience—but they need care.
At the campground:
- Use designated fire pits only
- Keep fires small and fully extinguish them
On the trails/backcountry:
- Do not have fires on the trails surrounding Aspen Grove
- Do not throw cigarette butts on the ground
6. Respect Wildlife
We’re guests in their home.
At the campground:
- Never feed wildlife
- Keep pets under control
On the trails:
- Observe from a distance
- Store food securely
7. Be Considerate of Others
Good camping is shared camping.
At the campground:
- Keep noise levels respectful
- Be mindful of shared spaces and quiet hours
On the trails:
- Yield to others when appropriate
- Keep music and noise to a minimum
A Campground is Still Nature
While Aspen Grove offers the comfort of roads, sites, and amenities, it’s still part of a living, natural environment. The same respect we show in the backcountry applies here—just in slightly different ways.
Small actions—like staying on paths, cleaning up your site, and respecting wildlife—make a big difference.
Leave No Trace isn’t about rules—it’s about respect.
Respect for the land.
Respect for wildlife.
Respect for each other.
By following these simple principles, we can keep Aspen Grove beautiful for this season—and for many seasons to come.