Marlatt Outdoors

Western Washington’s environment, characterized by dense forests, frequent rain, and varying terrains, demands thoughtful campsite selection and setup. Here’s a guide to creating an ideal campsite in this region:

Site Selection:

1. Distance from Water: Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, rivers, and streams to protect riparian areas.
2. Elevation: Choose elevated spots to avoid water pooling during rain.
3. Terrain: Look for flat or gently sloping areas for comfort and safety.
4. Vegetation: Avoid trampling on delicate vegetation. Use established campsites or areas with durable surfaces like rock, gravel, or sand.
5. Wildlife: Be aware of wildlife trails and feeding areas. Set up camp away from these zones.
6. Sun and Wind: In colder months, consider sunlight for warmth. In warmer months, seek shade. Use natural barriers like trees or boulders to shield from wind.

Tent Setup:

1. Footprint: Use a ground cloth or footprint under your tent to protect it from moisture and to prevent wear.
2. Rainfly: In a region known for rain, always deploy the rainfly. Ensure it’s taut and secure.
3. Orientation: Position the tent’s door away from prevailing winds.
4. Stakes and Guy Lines: Secure your tent properly. In softer ground, consider longer stakes or using rocks for additional anchoring.

Camp Kitchen:

1. Location: Set up your cooking area at least 100 feet away from your sleeping area to reduce the chances of attracting wildlife to your tent.
2. Bear Canisters: Use bear-proof containers to store food, toiletries, and trash. This is essential even if bears aren’t common; other wildlife can also be attracted to camp.
3. Waste Management: Pack out all trash. For washing dishes, use biodegradable soap and scatter strained dishwater.

Fire:

1. Fire Pits: Use established fire pits. If none exist, consider using a portable camp stove instead of making a fire.
2. Wood Gathering: Only gather small, fallen branches. Avoid breaking branches from living trees.
3. Extinguishing: Completely put out campfires before leaving or sleeping. Douse with water, stir, and douse again.

Leave No Trace:

1. Pack Out: Always pack out what you pack in. This includes all trash and waste.
2. Natural Features: Leave rocks, plants, and other natural features undisturbed.
3. Sanitation: Dig cat holes 6-8 inches deep for human waste, at least 200 feet away from water sources. Alternatively, use a portable toilet or pack out your waste.

Tips and Tricks:

1. Tarp: In a rainy environment like Western Washington, hang a tarp above your cooking and seating area for shelter.
2. Footwear: Bring waterproof boots and an extra pair of shoes or sandals for camp.
3. Clothing: Synthetic or wool fabrics are best, as they stay warm even when wet.
4. Lighting: Hang a lantern or LED lights in common areas for nighttime visibility.
5. Sleeping: Use a sleeping pad for insulation and comfort. In colder months, a hot water bottle in the sleeping bag can keep you warm.
6. Condensation: To reduce tent condensation, ensure tent vents are open.
7. Permits: Some areas may require camping permits, so check regulations beforehand.

In conclusion, camping in Western Washington requires a blend of preparation, respect for nature, and awareness of the specific challenges of the region. Proper campsite setup and adherence to Leave No Trace principles ensure that the beautiful landscapes of Western Washington remain pristine for future generations.