Responsible Camping: Leave No Trace for Moto Riders

Motorcycle camping isn’t just about adventure—it’s also about stewardship. As riders, we have access to incredible remote places that most people will never see. That freedom comes with the responsibility to care for the land and trails we use. By following Leave No Trace principles and practicing TREAD Lightly ethics, we help ensure these places stay wild and open for future generations.

This guide covers how to camp responsibly while traveling by motorcycle and how these two important outdoor ethics systems work hand in hand. 

TLDR: We have this nice video from Dork and Grace 

What Is Leave No Trace?

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of seven principles that help minimize human impact on natural spaces. Originally created for hikers and backpackers, these principles are just as important for motorcycle campers.

The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace (with Moto Rider Notes)

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Know the rules and regulations of the area you're visiting

• Use maps and GPX tracks to stay on legal routes

• Check weather, fire restrictions, and camping availability

Moto Tip: Download offline maps or bring printed copies. Let someone know your route, especially if you're traveling solo.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Camp in established campsites when possible

• Avoid setting up on soft, fragile ground like meadows or cryptobiotic soil

• Stay on designated roads and trails

Moto Tip: Don’t ride across open landscapes or off the trail just to find a “better” campsite. Avoid muddy trails to prevent long-term damage.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack out all trash—including microtrash like twist ties or food wrappers

• Use a trowel to dig a cat hole 6–8 inches deep for human waste, at least 200 feet from water

• Pack out used toilet paper (or use biodegradable wipes and bury them properly)

Moto Tip: Use resealable freezer bags or odor-proof bags for trash until you find a bin. Keep a roll of TP and wipes in a waterproof container.

4. Leave What You Find

• Don’t collect rocks, plants, or artifacts

• Leave campsites as you found them—or better

• Avoid altering landscapes to “improve” a site

Moto Tip: Don’t carve your initials into trees or rocks. Leave that area just as wild for the next rider to discover.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Use a camp stove for cooking instead of building fires

• If fires are allowed, use existing rings and only burn dead, downed wood

• Never leave a fire unattended, and always fully extinguish it

Moto Tip: A stove is faster, cleaner, and safer. It also packs easily and doesn’t require you to gather firewood in sensitive areas.

6. Respect Wildlife

• Observe animals from a distance

• Store food securely away from your tent

• Never feed wild animals

Moto Tip: Use bear bags or hard containers when needed. Crumbs and smells in your panniers can attract unwanted nighttime visitors.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Keep noise to a minimum—no revving engines near campsites or trails

• Yield to hikers and equestrians on shared paths

• Camp out of sight of the trail when dispersed camping

Moto Tip: Early mornings and quiet sunsets are better enjoyed when you're not announcing your presence with loud music or a roaring exhaust.

What Is TREAD Lightly and How Does It Apply?

TREAD Lightly is another system built around responsible motorized recreation. It complements Leave No Trace by focusing specifically on off-road use and vehicle ethics.

TREAD Principles:

• T – Travel Responsibly: Stay on designated roads, trails, and areas.

• R – Respect the Rights of Others: Yield to others and keep noise down.

• E – Educate Yourself: Know local rules and carry maps or GPS.

• A – Avoid Sensitive Areas: Protect wetlands, meadows, and wildlife habitat.

• D – Do Your Part: Clean up after yourself and help maintain trails if you can.

These guidelines go hand-in-hand with Leave No Trace and are especially relevant for adventure and dual-sport riders who may be accessing more sensitive areas.

Why It Matters for Moto Campers

Riders are increasingly under scrutiny on public lands. When we show up with respect, we help protect the reputation of all moto travelers. Responsible riders:

• Keep trails and land use open by following the rules

• Reduce land damage and erosion

• Reduce chances of closures

• Set an example for others in the community

Your actions reflect not just on you—but on every other rider who comes after.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be perfect. But every time you choose a campsite responsibly, pack out your trash, or educate someone else, you’re helping keep these spaces open and healthy.

At Moto Camp Nerd, we believe in adventure with integrity and responsibility. Let’s ride and camp like the place is going to get shutdown if we don't leave it better than we found it.