When enjoying Ontario's campsites, lakes, forests and hiking trails, it's wise to remember that you're in the natural habitat of black bears. Bears have a keen sense of smell, and are attracted by the odour of human food and garbage. To avoid conflicts with bears, prepare and be aware.
What campers can do – at your campsite:
- If you are going to an Ontario Park or a private campground do follow advice provided by their staff
- No matter where you camp, always pack out all garbage from the backcountry and use bear-resistant containers where available
- Be aware that all food odours and residues can attract bears, so do everything you can to eliminate or reduce odours from yourself, your camp, your clothes and your vehicle
- Never feed or approach a bear
- Clean fish away from your campsite
- After a meal, store leftover food away from your campsite in sealed plastic bags and, if possible, in bear resistant containers
- Keep your site clean. Burn food scraps and fat drippings thoroughly in a fire. Drain dish water away from your camp site
- Never cook, eat or store any food (including snacks), cooking equipment or toiletries in your tent
- If you are sleeping in a tent try to not sleep in clothes you have worn while cooking meals
- Store food so that bears cannot reach it – in the trunk of your car or hanging at least 4 metres (13 feet) above the ground and 3 metres from tree limbs or trunks that can support a bear. Fishing tackle, clothes worn when cooking, garbage, toiletries and all snacks should also be hung. If you cannot hang your pack, put it in a canoe or boat that is anchored offshore
- Look for signs of bear activity nearby. Consider moving elsewhere if it appears as though a black bear has been active in the area
- If you plan to camp in remote areas you should take additional precautions to ensure your personal safety
Download a PDF version of this fact sheet.
TO REPORT BEAR PROBLEMS: contact the Bear Reporting Line at:
1-866-514-2327 (TTY) 705 945-7641
In a life-threatening emergency, call your local police or 911.
