I don't have all the details but this sounds like some very stupid campers.
I have done a lot of camping and I would be very cautious about camping "remote" in the Rockies. And no way in hell would I even dream About not taking food.
Sounds like they fucked around with nature and found out.
It also sounds like that boy was a victim of parental stupidity. I pity him.
I do not use fabric softener or dryer sheets. I don't need more chemicals or scents in my life.
If things have static after the dryer I rub then with a metal hanger.
I also use laundry powder. Hard to find but I found it at Costco business. No need to truck water all over hell when my machine adds water first thing.