North Carolina is home to endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in scenic public lands, parks, and backcountry.  As travelers, we all must do our part to protect the places we visit.  Being a responsible, respectful traveler is crucial for minimizing the negative impacts while instead maximizing the positive contributions we can make to local communities and the environment.

Before you travel, plan and be prepared.  Learn about the location and destination you are heading to and be familiar with any local regulations and safety needs.  Poor planning may result in a bad outing and a dangerous situation at worst.

In Camden County we want to ensure our visitors have the most enjoyable adventure possible.  There are steps we can take, especially when recreating in the outdoors, that ensure a safe but fun experience, by being prepared and getting educated.  By following the Know Before You Go checklist, you’ll be fully prepared for a memorable time in the outdoors.

We also encourage you to learn about and follow the 7 Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principles to help preserve the natural beauty of our state, but also so you can connect with nature like never before.

How to Be a Responsible Traveler

Being a responsible traveler means making conscious choices about your interactions to minimize your impact on the environment, be respectful of local communities and cultures, and how to have a positive contribution wherever you go. Below are some tips to help you become a more responsible traveler:

*Discover Our Destination ~ We invite you to connect deeper and appreciate what makes our region special and unique.  Become educated about the history of our communities by visiting museum and visitor education centers.  Enjoy local flavors and cultures through our dining and cultural arts.  Marvel at our natural environment, flora and fauna, and North Carolina scenic landscapes.   https://www.visitcamdencountync.com/

*Spend Local ~ By enjoying our unique restaurants and dining, tasting our fresh produce at local farmer’s markets, staying in locally owned and operated campground & vacation rentals, and buying crafts and souvenirs in our boutique retailers and gift stores, your dollars support our economy and provide locals with jobs.

*Consider Your Environmental Footprint ~ Consider ways to reduce trash and minimize your footprint.  Reduce your plastic usage by brining a reusable water bottle and filling it at safe water sources.  Dispose of your trash properly and look to recycle where available.  Pick up your dog poop and always dispose of it with care.  Consider parking the car and instead walking or taking a bike when you can.  Conserve our precious resources by minimizing water and energy usage when in accommodations.

*Be Kind in the Community ~ Let our culture and our locals become part of your journey by connecting with the people you meet along the way.  Participate in community events and activities, ask locals about their favorite trails or places to visit, and even favorite dining spots.  Be kind to frontline workers who are there to serve and help enhance your experience.  A smile goes a long way.

*Give Back ~ Voluntourism is a way for travelers to give their time supporting local non-profit organizations in our region on environmental stewardship or other impactful community projects.  You can  become a destination steward during your visit by participating in or donating to a local conservation or outdoor stewardship organization.

When you follow the principles of Leave No Trace you can connect with nature like never before.  In Camden County we welcome you to explore our outdoor spaces while making it your nature to protect North Carolina’s outdoor spaces.

We want you to have a safe and enjoyable visit by checking the most up-to-date travel resources:

• Check for any adverse weather conditions or weather warnings whatever season you are traveling.
• Get local transportation information and stay up to date on North Carolina Department of Transportation traffic conditions.
• View the most up-to-date transportation information including electric vehicle charging stations.
• Find more information at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center.

Thank you for joining us and Outdoor NC in being good stewards of our environment. Future generations will greatly benefit from your commitment to preserving our natural resources.