Don’t Leave Your Trinkets on the Trail
I will admit, finding a cute little painted rock while hiking feels like a fun surprise. You might even be tempted to leave one behind for someone else to discover.
But if you're visiting one of Indiana's state parks, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources has an important reminder: Please don't.
Indiana State Parks recently shared a photo of 36 artificial items collected from trails at Pokagon State Park in just one weekend, including painted rocks, small plastic toys, crosses and other handmade trinkets.
The collection prompted park officials to remind visitors of one of the most important rules for enjoying our natural spaces: "Leave only footprints, take only photographs."
Why Even Cute Trinkets Shouldn't Be Left Behind
Painted rocks and tiny toys may seem harmless, especially when they're intentionally hidden for another visitor to find.
However, Indiana State Parks says visitors are required to carry out artificial items rather than leaving them behind.
It's not just about keeping trails looking natural. Removing artificial objects helps protect the environment and wildlife while preserving the experience for other visitors.
The photo shared by Indiana State Parks makes the issue pretty clear. Those 36 objects weren't collected over an entire summer or even several weeks. They were found during a single weekend at one state park.
Leave No Trace When Visiting Indiana State Parks
The idea behind "leave no trace" is pretty simple. When you head home after spending a day outdoors, the natural space you visited should look essentially the same as it did before you arrived.
That means packing out trash and anything else you brought with you, including items you may have intended to leave for someone else.
So while hiding a painted rock, tiny figurine, or handmade treasure might seem like a fun way to brighten another hiker's day, Indiana State Parks asks visitors to save those activities for places where they're permitted.
A neighborhood, your own garden or a community park that allows them may be a better home for those creations.
Read More: Additional 1400 Acres Added to Indiana State Parks System
There Are Other Ways to Make Your State Park Visit Special
If you're looking for something extra to add to your next Indiana State Park adventure, the DNR recommends stopping by one of its nature centers or attending a naturalist program.
Visitors can also participate in the Hoosier Quest program, which offers opportunities to earn pins and patches while exploring Indiana's state parks and state-managed lakes.
And, of course, you can always take plenty of photos.
Those memories can come home with you. The plastic dinosaurs and painted rocks should, too.
POKAGON STATE PARK TOBAGGON RUN
Gallery Credit: ANGEL WELSH
