How to Camp Safely in Bear Country

Why Bear Safety Matters

Alberta is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. While bear encounters are relatively rare, proper preparation and knowledge can prevent dangerous situations and help protect both you and the bears. Understanding bear behavior and following proper precautions is essential for anyone camping in bear country.

Know Your Bears

Essential Bear Safety Practices

1. Proper Food Storage

Bears have an incredible sense of smell and are attracted to food odors. Proper food storage is your first line of defense:

• Store food in bear-proof containers or hang it at least 4m high and 1.5m from the trunk
• Keep food at least 100m from your campsite
• Never store food in your tent
• Pack out all garbage and store it with your food
• Clean all dishes immediately after meals

2. Making Noise While Hiking

Most bear encounters can be avoided by making your presence known:

• Talk, sing, or make regular noise while hiking
• Be especially vocal near streams or in dense vegetation
• Travel in groups when possible
• Avoid hiking at dawn, dusk, or night

3. Bear Spray Usage

Bear spray is your most important safety tool:

• Keep bear spray easily accessible, not in your pack
• Check the expiration date before your trip
• Know how to use it (practice with inert training spray)
• Be aware of wind direction when using
• Spray only when bear is within 6-8 meters

4. Campsite Setup

Proper campsite layout helps minimize bear encounters:

• Set up cooking area at least 100m from sleeping area
• Store clothes worn while cooking with food storage
• Keep sleeping area free of all attractants
• Maintain clear sightlines around camp

What to Do in a Bear Encounter

1. Stay calm and assess the situation
2. Speak calmly to identify yourself as human
3. Slowly back away while facing the bear
4. Make yourself appear large
5. Keep your bear spray ready
6. Never run from a bear