National Park bosses have issued a warning to wild campers to ensure they clean up after themselves.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, which stretches into Perth and Kinross, has previously suffered damage due to unattended fire pits and abandoned tents.
Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, the trustees have issued guidance to those planning on camping in the area.
A spokesman said: “Camping is a great way to experience the spectacular scenery of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
“Because it is so easy to get to, the park is hugely popular with visitors, both from at home and abroad. In order to protect the special qualities of the park it is important that campers and all other visitors take their environmental responsibilities seriously.
“The park hosts numerous rare and protected species natural to the area, examples of these include wild otter, osprey, water vole, red squirrel, and numerous others. It’s probably easier to disrupt the park’s natural eco-system than many visitors may think.
“Wherever you choose to camp please ensure you do it responsibly and respectfully. Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing back with you but happy memories (and your rubbish!).
“If you brought it with you take it all away too. Bottles, cans and plastics are particularly damaging, but even organic waste can interfere with the local ecosystem and encourage scavengers into an area where they would not normally appear.
“Further, it may also take a long time to biodegrade at higher altitudes. Set an example by picking up litter left by others if you can. Don’t burn any litter on fires; melted glass, plastic and metal will not biodegrade and releases harmful chemicals.”
Campers are reminded that access rights do not extend to vehicles and to pitch tents in areas that are not likely to flood.
They ask that campers use stoves where possible and to keep open fires small, as well as to take extra care during deer stalking and grouse shooting season.
