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Outdoor Ethics and Camping Etiquette-Basic Skills for Outdoor Enjoyment Are Celebrated In Vermont State Parks

Question: What are “Outdoor Ethics,” and what do they mean by “Camping Etiquette?”

Quite simply, we are talking about learning to take care of ourselves, while respecting the environment and other people in the out-of-doors. In this case, while camping in a Vermont State Park. We aren’t born knowing how to camp, or how to protect our environment. We need to learn these skills to become experienced outdoorsmen and women. This is why camping is such a great family activity One generation can pass their skills and knowledge to the next.

Some of what we need to know is pretty simple: how do we dispose of garbage in camp? Some is more complicated: how do we do our dishes outdoors so we don’t pollute?

In the story “Emily and Elliott Clean Up Camp,“ the kids learn about campsite etiquette as they clean up after a camp meal, and prepare for other activities. Kids ages 5-10 can listen to or read the story and relate some of their own experiences about camping. Here are a few questions for after the story to get everyone thinking:

1.) What do you thinks happens if a drain in a park toilet building gets plugged up? How will affect other campers and who will fix it?

2.) Name some animals besides squirrels that would have eaten Elliott’s pancake. Are these animals that we would like to have around camp? What problems could be caused if wild animals are allowed to hang around your campsite?

3.) Why did Dad heat the water to wash dishes? How do you wash dishes when you go camping? How is it different from washing dishes at home? Why did Dad use special soap?

4.) In the story, the park had a dumpster for garbage and containers for recycling. Do you throw different types of things away when you camp? What things can you recycle when you are camping? How is this different from recycling at home? Why is burning garbage a sign of inexperience when camping?

5.) The rude campers were making noise during quiet hours and burning their garbage. Pretend you are the park ranger and you are going to talk to them about their camping manners. What will you say?