Can You Bury Dog Poop While Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an increasingly popular activity, and people who go backpacking often bring their pets along with them. Unfortunately, this means that pet owners must grapple with the issue of pet waste while out in the wilderness. One of the questions that many pet owners ask is whether they can bury their dog’s poop while backpacking.

The answer to this depends on the regulations of the park or wilderness area you are visiting. Some parks allow for burying of dog waste, but it is important to check with the park’s regulations before doing so. If it is allowed, it should be done in a shallow hole at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites.

After burying the dog poop, fill in the hole and make sure that no trace remains on the surface.

Another option for dealing with dog waste while backpacking is to carry it out with you in a sealed bag or other container until you reach an area where you can properly dispose of it. This is often the most practical solution as burying dog poop can be difficult if there are hard or rocky surfaces present.

In conclusion, whether or not you can bury your dog’s poop while backpacking depends on the regulations of your specific park or wilderness area. If it is allowed, be sure to bury it in a shallow hole at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites and make sure to cover up any trace left behind on the surface afterwards. Otherwise, consider carrying it out with you until you reach an area where you can dispose of it properly.