Camping in Bear Country

Reduce odours that attract bears

1. Store ALL food and wildlife attractants in the animal-proof facilities provided or, as a last resort, in a hard-sided vehicle/RV (not in a tent).  If no facilities exist, hang your food and garbage out of bear reach.  Use 100-feet of rope to hang your food between two trees well away from your tent/cooking area.

2. NEVER take food into your tent, not even a snack.

3. Use the designated grey water disposal grates; do not dispose of grey water near a human-use area.

4. Keep your fire pit clean and free of food residue.

“Bare Campsite” Rules

Follow these rules whenever your campsite is unattended for any length of time i.e. at night or when going for a hike, swim or to the washroom.

What Attracts Bears?

Anything that has an odour or could be considered food may attract wildlife to your site.

• Coolers – full/empty
• Food and Condiments
• Garbage/Wrappings/Plastic Bags
• Dishes/Pots
• Pet Food/Bowls
• Bottles/Cans: full/empty
• Tablecloths
• Toiletries/Suntan Lotion/Insect Spray
• Camp Stoves & Barbecues
• Containers of Gasoline/Oil
• ANY items associated with food preparation or clean up (soap, dish clothes, towels, & clothing worn while cooking.
• Grey Water Pails

Author: michael mcstay

Michael McStay serves as the Senior Editor and CEO of NockedUp, a platform dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts in Massachusetts. An avid fisherman, hunter, and hiker, he has a deep passion for the outdoors and values the importance of sharing knowledge and information related to Massachusetts' natural environment. If you have any thrilling outdoor news to share, or if you would like to provide feedback or suggest story ideas, we encourage you to contact us via text at 339-309-8721 (Join NockedUp Massachusetts Outdoors—it's free and simple! Stay in the loop and never miss another post or update).