Cliff camping is an exhilarating way to experience the raw beauty of nature, often offering breathtaking views, quiet solitude, and the thrill of sleeping in a hammock suspended from sheer rock faces. However, while the experience is undoubtedly rewarding, there are some aspects that are much less glamorous, and one of the most challenging is taking care of bodily functions—specifically, the need to poo in such an extreme setting. In this review, I’ll discuss the unique experience of pooing while cliff camping, offering an honest look at the challenges, solutions, and some unexpected moments of clarity that come with this unusual activity.
The Challenge
The most obvious challenge of cliff camping is the lack of traditional facilities. There are no restrooms, toilets, or even nearby trails where you can easily duck out for a bathroom break. If you’re camping in a location with a sheer drop or surrounded by rugged terrain, this becomes even more difficult. The idea of nature calls from such a precarious height can seem daunting to most, but for seasoned cliff campers, it’s a reality to be tackled with a mix of creativity, practicality, and respect for the environment.
The first thing that becomes clear is the need for preparation. Cliff camping is not an activity you can casually walk into without considering logistics. There’s a mental and physical element that comes with managing bodily functions in such an environment. For many people, the mere thought of “doing their business” at a cliff’s edge, with nothing but air beneath them, may be terrifying. But it’s a reality that requires careful thought to ensure safety and comfort.
The Preparation
Before heading out on a cliff camping trip, a bit of research is required to ensure that your plans align with environmental guidelines. Most national parks, wilderness areas, and climbing spots have strict Leave No Trace policies that require campers to pack out all waste, including human poo. The key to success in this situation is to be prepared with the necessary tools.
The most popular solution is the use of a portable toilet or “WAG bag” (Waste Alleviation and Gelling bag). These bags contain a gel that solidifies waste, preventing unpleasant odors and making it easier to carry out the waste once you’ve finished. The bag is then sealed and stored in a backpack or a separate storage container that is carried with you until you find an appropriate location to dispose of it once you’re back on solid ground.
In addition to the WAG bag, it’s important to carry wipes for cleaning yourself. Baby wipes or eco-friendly wipes are compact and effective, and ensure that you can leave the site feeling fresh without contributing to pollution in the area. You’ll also need to make sure you have a backup bag and enough supplies for an extended trip, as cliff camping doesn’t always offer a quick escape to civilization.
The Process
Once you’ve found a suitable spot for your bathroom needs, the next step is figuring out how to actually go about it. If you’re cliff camping, the sheer drop means you need to be extra cautious about where and how you position yourself. This process may involve hanging off your hammock, wedging yourself between rocks, or finding a spot on a small ledge. It’s a strange feeling, as you’re essentially going to the bathroom in a place where you could easily lose your balance and fall—adding an extra layer of anxiety to an already vulnerable moment.
The physical act of squatting or positioning oneself on a cliff can be difficult, especially if the area is windy or you’re dealing with uneven ground. While you can try to be discreet by turning away from the edge or using your backpack or climbing gear for balance, there’s no escaping the fact that you’re exposed in the most vulnerable sense. The altitude and wind can sometimes make it feel as if nature itself is challenging you to stay grounded while taking care of your personal business. It’s a test of focus, patience, and—at times—humor.
The Experience
Despite the challenges, there’s something oddly satisfying about the entire process of pooing while cliff camping. Once the task is done, there’s a sense of accomplishment—not only because you’ve successfully navigated the difficulties of the environment but also because you’ve been able to do so while immersing yourself in the rawness of nature.
One of the unexpected benefits of this unusual form of “backcountry hygiene” is that it provides an opportunity to truly connect with the environment. The sensation of releasing waste at a cliff’s edge while looking out over miles of untouched wilderness is an experience that few people will ever truly understand. It’s a humbling moment that reminds you of your place in the natural world, something that’s hard to grasp when you’re wrapped in the comforts of modern life.
However, it’s important to note that you should always follow Leave No Trace principles and take responsibility for the impact you have on the environment. The main objective here is to leave no waste behind, either by packing out your waste in a WAG bag or burying it in a safe and environmentally respectful manner if you’re on solid ground. With that in mind, cliff camping and the experience of pooing in such an environment can be incredibly satisfying when done responsibly.
The Humor of It All
One of the surprising aspects of this experience is the humor it often brings. Whether you’re struggling to maintain your balance while squatting on a precarious ledge or laughing at the absurdity of the situation, there are moments where the sheer ridiculousness of pooing at a cliff’s edge breaks the tension and gives you a chance to lighten up. This is often the point when I start reflecting on how far I’ve come to be in such a strange place, doing something that, under normal circumstances, might seem completely out of the ordinary.
The Bottom Line
Pooing while cliff camping is not for the faint of heart. It requires a great deal of preparation, both mentally and physically, and an unwavering commitment to leave the environment as you found it. But for those brave enough to embrace the challenge, it offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature in a deeply personal and humbling way. In the end, it’s just another part of the adventure—an experience that, while unpleasant at times, only adds to the memories and stories of the cliff camping journey.
Whether you’re there for the thrill of the climb, the peaceful solitude, or the stunning vistas, taking care of your business while suspended on a cliff adds a unique, unforgettable layer to the experience. If you’re up for the challenge and ready to embrace the rawness of nature, this is an aspect of cliff camping that you’ll never forget.