May is here. Students are counting down the days to summer vacation, families and friends are planning their outdoor retreats and escaping into any of the magnificent 118 Wisconsin state parks, trails, forests, and recreation areas. The journeys outside mean soaking up the sunshine on the water, group hikes on rugged trails, campground laughter around a warm fire, and biking miles from one community to the next. These vibrant spaces welcome on average 20 million people annually, and summer is the busiest time of the year. That being said, it is critical to remind ourse are some of Wisconsin’s greatest treasures—and each of us plays a role in keeping them healthy, beautiful, and welcoming for everyone.
Practicing Leave No Trace doesn’t have to be complicated. Small choices make a big difference. Here are four simple ways to help protect our public lands this summer.
Staying on Trails
It can be tempting to step off the trail for a shortcut, a photo, or a closer look at nature. But even a few footsteps can damage fragile plants, cause erosion, and create unofficial paths that harm habitats.
Staying on marked trails helps:
- Protect native plants and wildlife habitats
- Prevent soil erosion and trail widening
- Keep you safe by guiding you through approved routes
If the trail is muddy, walk through the mud—not around it. That mud puddle is temporary, but trail damage can last for years.
Pack In, Pack Out
If you bring it with you, take it home with you. It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most important Leave No Trace principles.
Common items left behind include:
- Snack wrappers and bottles
- Fishing line and bait containers
- Tissues and wipes
- Picnic leftovers
Even biodegradable items like orange peels and sunflower seeds don’t belong on the trail. They take longer to break down than you might think and can attract wildlife to areas where human food isn’t safe for them.
A good rule of thumb: check your area before you leave and pick up any extra litter you see along the way. A small act can make a huge difference.
Follow Fire Rules
Campfires are a beloved part of the Wisconsin outdoor experience—but they also come with responsibility.
Always:
- Use designated fire rings or approved stoves
- Check current fire conditions and restrictions
- Keep fires small and manageable
- Fully extinguish fires before leaving or going to bed
Never burn trash or leave a fire unattended. A properly managed campfire keeps everyone safe and helps protect forests from accidental wildfires.
Clean Up After Pets
We love seeing dogs enjoying Wisconsin’s public lands! Keeping parks clean and safe for visitors and wildlife means being a responsible pet owner.
Please remember to:
- Keep pets on a leash where required
- Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste
- Keep pets away from wildlife and sensitive areas
Pet waste doesn’t just “disappear.” It can contaminate water, spread disease, and disrupt natural ecosystems. Packing out pet waste helps keep trails and beaches clean for everyone.
Small Actions, Big Impact
Leave No Trace is about respect—for nature, wildlife, and the people who will visit after you. When we all do our part, we help ensure Wisconsin’s state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas remain beautiful and welcoming for generations to come.
This summer, let’s explore responsibly and leave every place better than we found it.
Learn more about Leave No Trace principles and practices at the following website: Leave No Trace
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