Camping and Wildlife Safety

Black Bear

Planning an overnight stay in the park? Camping can be a great way to truly experience the park. There is a lot of wildlife here, and night is a good time to see or hear many of our wild creatures. Proper precautions can keep you safe and keep unwanted animals out of your tent.

Safety tips:

·         Always keep a clean camp.

·         Never leave food lying out.

·         Never dump food scraps or other smelly stuff near your camping area.

·         Never bring food in your tent.

·         Lock food, trash, and scented items in a vehicle when not in use.

·         If you are backpacking or boating and do not have a vehicle, food should be hung in a tree out of reach of animals and away from your tent. 

·         Use designated camping areas.

·         Keep your sleeping area, tent and sleeping bag free of food and odors.

·         Dispose of trash in bear resistant trash cans.

·         Keep a safe distance from all wildlife.

·         Never feed wild animals! It is dangerous to both you and the animal.

·         Always keep pets on a leash.

Black bears are occasionally encountered in the park, so be aware. You are most likely to run into raccoons or skunks trying to get your food or making a lot of noise trying to get into a trash can.

If you see a bear:

·         Remain calm. Do not run.

·         Enjoy the sighting. Most visitors never get the chance to see a bear.

·         Keep a safe distance (100 yards or more).

·         If the bear approaches, scare it away with loud shouting or by throwing rocks or sticks towards it.

·         Report sightings to a park ranger.