Leave No Trace for Kids: Simple Rules Scouts Actually Remember
| Category: | Outdoor Ethics |
|---|---|
| Notes: | Designed for Cub Scouts and younger youth. Focuses on easy-to-remember guidelines and personal responsibility. |
'Take only pictures, leave only footprints.'
📄 Download Printable Reference (7 Principles) ✍ Download Pledge Card (print & cut - 2 per sheet)
You can teach this in under five minutes. Before heading out, have each Scout pick one rule from the list below and make a personal Leave No Trace Promise - to pick up litter, stay on the trail, or leave what they find. Hold each other accountable. That's it. That's the lesson.
- Know Before You Go
- Choose The Right Path
- Trash Your Trash
- Leave What You Find
- Be Careful With Fire
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Kind To Other Visitors
Have a plan in place on where you and your pack are going for an adventure.
Stay on designated trails to help preserve the natural environment. If you need to go off-trail, step lightly and avoid trampling vegetation.
Dispose of waste in proper trash containers. If a container isn't available, take your trash with you back home.
Choose to take pictures of what you find instead of removing it. Even in local parks, avoid taking natural or manmade objects.
If you're camping at a campground, only use designated areas for fires. Use existing rings or a portable stove like a Solo Stove. Cook on a stove when possible.
Watch wildlife from a distance. Don't pick them up or disturb them. Take field notes or photos instead.
Others have a right to peace and quiet. Avoid loud noise, and don't run or cut through others' campsites.