So-called “dirty camping” has been much in the news lately, particularly in the Glenkens where a minority of people seem incapable of cleaning up behind them.
Free and uninhibited public access to the land is enshrined in Scots law. But with that comes the responsibility of leaving nothing behind and the environment undamaged.
An influx of people looking to camp out at Loch Ken and the surrounding area has already led to confrontations between volunteer rangers and loud-mouthed louts.
People in nearby Laurieston are all too aware of the problem.
Shirley Thomson said: “We have hot-spots round here where people are always going to camp. Maybe if there was some sort of receptacle to put rubbish in that would help.
“The council bin lorries have certain routes and maybe with a bit of flexibility the bins could be incorporated into the route.
“It would be better than having rubbish scattered everywhere.”
Phil McMenemy believes the problem is getting worse. He said: “Recently there were five tents pitched up at the Kennick Burn picnic spot.
“The people had left a massive fire pit and that just spoils it for everybody else.
“Preserving Scotland’s access laws is so vital but it’s a shame a percentage of people act like this because we all lose out.”
Stephen McLean said: “As long as camping is done responsibly I’m all for it and for the right to roam and full access.
“But just now people are getting a bit careless and thoughtless.”
Rosie Mair said: “My husband Iain was manager at the Hensol Farm near Mossdale for 40 years.
“And there’s no trees left because they cut them all down to make bonfires.
