One of the most common questions first-time campers have is, “What do I do about the bathroom when I’m out in the wilderness?” Whether you’re car camping at a developed campground or backpacking into the backcountry, figuring out how to handle your bathroom needs is important for your comfort, hygiene, and the environment.

It’s totally normal to be a little nervous about this part of camping, especially if you’ve never had to deal with going to the bathroom outdoors before. But don’t worry! There are plenty of options for handling your bathroom needs while camping, and with a little preparation, it’s not as awkward or scary as it might seem.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different bathroom options available when camping, from campgrounds with facilities to going in the wild. We’ll also share some tips for staying clean, being respectful of the environment, and making the experience as comfortable as possible.

1. Campgrounds with Bathroom Facilities

If you’re staying at a developed campground, the bathroom situation can be as simple as finding the nearest restroom. Many campgrounds, especially in national and state parks, offer a range of facilities, from flush toilets to more basic pit toilets. Let’s break down what you can expect:

A) Flush Toilets

If you’re camping at a popular or well-maintained campground, you might be lucky enough to have access to flush toilets. These are exactly like the toilets you have at home, complete with running water, toilet paper, and sometimes even sinks for washing your hands. These campgrounds often have communal bathrooms located a short walk from campsites.

Pro tip: If flush toilets are available, they’re usually marked on the campground map. Keep a small flashlight handy for nighttime bathroom trips, as the facilities might not always be well-lit.

B) Pit Toilets (Vault Toilets)

If the campground doesn’t have flush toilets, it likely has pit toilets (also called vault toilets). These are essentially large outhouses where waste is stored in a sealed pit or vault below the toilet. They don’t flush, and there’s no running water, but they usually have toilet paper and hand sanitizer available.

On one of my first camping trips, I remember being a little nervous about using a pit toilet. I pictured…well, you can imagine. I was surprised at how clean it was! The key is to bring some hand sanitizer with you in case they run out, and maybe a pack of wet wipes to freshen up after.

C) Showers

Some campgrounds even offer showers! These are more common at larger campgrounds or those that cater to families and longer stays. If you’re camping at one of these locations, you can enjoy a hot (or at least warm) shower after a day of hiking or exploring.

Pro tip: Bring a pair of flip-flops for the shower and a quick-dry towel to make the experience more comfortable. Shower facilities can vary in quality, so it’s a good idea to come prepared.

2. Portable Toilet Options

If you’re camping at a more remote or primitive site where there are no bathroom facilities, or you want the convenience of having your own bathroom setup, there are a few different portable toilet options that are easy to use and can make camping more comfortable.

A) Portable Camping Toilets

A portable camping toilet is a great option if you prefer to have a more traditional bathroom experience while camping. These are essentially small, portable toilets that you can set up at your campsite. They come with a seat, a waste container, and sometimes even a flushing mechanism.

Most portable camping toilets use biodegradable bags or chemicals to break down waste. Once the bag is full, you can seal it and dispose of it properly at designated waste disposal sites.

B) Bucket Toilets

Another simple and budget-friendly option is the bucket toilet. It’s exactly what it sounds like — a sturdy bucket with a seat on top. Many campers line the bucket with a heavy-duty, biodegradable bag for easy cleanup. After each use, you add a layer of absorbent material, like sawdust or cat litter, to control odors.

Pro tip: If you’re going this route, make sure to bring enough absorbent material and biodegradable bags to last your trip. This method is super convenient for car camping or when you don’t want to venture too far from your tent at night.

C) Privacy Tents

If you’re using a portable or bucket toilet at your campsite and want a little more privacy, consider setting up a privacy tent. These small, portable tents are designed specifically to give you a private space for changing clothes or using a toilet.

3. Using Nature: “Going in the Wild”

For campers who are heading into the backcountry or camping in a very primitive area, you may need to go in the wild — meaning, using the bathroom outdoors without a toilet. While this might sound intimidating, it’s a common practice among seasoned campers and hikers, and with the right knowledge, it’s easy and respectful to nature.

A) Peeing in the Wild

Peeing outdoors is relatively simple, but it’s important to do it in a way that minimizes your impact on the environment.

Pick the right spot: Choose a spot that’s at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) away from any water sources, trails, or campsites. This helps protect water quality and keeps the campsite comfortable for everyone.

For women: If you prefer not to squat, you can use a female urination device (like a Sunany or GoGirl) to stand while peeing. It might take a little practice, but many campers find it makes the process easier and cleaner.

B) Pooping in the Wild: How to Dig a “Cathole”

If you need to go number two while camping without facilities, the most environmentally responsible way to handle it is by digging a cathole. Here’s how:

Find a spot: As with peeing, find a spot that’s at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, or campsites.

Dig a hole: Use a small trowel to dig a hole about 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide. This depth helps waste decompose faster.

Do your business: Once the hole is ready, squat over it and do your business.

Cover the hole: When you’re finished, cover the waste with the dirt you dug out and pack it down. This helps prevent animals from digging it up.

C) What to Do With Toilet Paper

If you use toilet paper while camping, the best practice is to pack it out. This means carrying used toilet paper in a sealable bag and disposing of it properly when you return to a place with trash facilities. Some campers use natural materials like leaves or smooth stones to clean up, which eliminates the need for toilet paper altogether.

Pro tip: Bring a couple of sealable plastic bags — one for clean toilet paper and one for used — and a small bottle of hand sanitizer for easy cleanup. Keeping things sanitary will make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

4. Staying Clean While Camping

Camping often means limited access to running water, but there are still ways to stay clean and comfortable during your trip.

A) Hand Hygiene

Washing your hands is important, especially after using the bathroom or before preparing food. If you don’t have access to soap and water, bring plenty of hand sanitizer and use it regularly.

Personal tip: I keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer clipped to my backpack or belt for easy access when hiking or camping. It’s an easy way to stay clean when soap and water aren’t available.

B) Wet Wipes or Biodegradable Soap

Wet wipes are a convenient way to freshen up when you’re camping, especially if you don’t have access to a shower. Just make sure to pack them out with your trash. Alternatively, you can bring a small container of biodegradable soap and use it with water to wash your hands, face, and body.

Pro tip: A solar shower — a bag that heats water using sunlight — is a great option for cleaning up if you’re camping for multiple days and want to stay fresh.

5. Leave No Trace: Caring for the Environment

When camping, it’s important to follow the Leave No Trace principles, which help protect the environment and keep wild spaces clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy. Here’s how to apply these principles to your bathroom habits:

Pack out all waste: If you’re using toilet paper or wipes, make sure to pack them out with you. Don’t bury or leave trash behind, as it can harm wildlife and the environment.

Use a cathole: When going to the bathroom in the wild, always dig a cathole to bury waste. This helps it decompose naturally without disturbing the environment.

Use biodegradable products: If you’re using soap or wipes, choose biodegradable options that are safe for the environment. Just be sure to use them 200 feet away from water sources.

Conclusion: Comfort and Confidence in the Great Outdoors

When it comes to using the bathroom while camping, the key is to be prepared and know your options. Whether you’re staying at a developed campground with flush toilets or heading deep into the backcountry and using a cathole, there are ways to handle your bathroom needs safely, cleanly, and respectfully.

By following a few simple guidelines and coming equipped with the right gear, you’ll feel confident and comfortable in the great outdoors. And with a little practice, going to the bathroom while camping will feel like no big deal — just another part of the adventure.

Happy camping!