Prowling Bears Close NC Mountain Campgrounds

This vintage 1985 Mount Mitchell t-shirt perfectly sums up the current situation.

(via digitriad.com)

Mt Mitchell, NC-- A popular NC mountain campground is closing until the end of August because of bears.

Friday, state park officials make the decision because of increased activity by black bears. The family campground at Mount Mitchell State Park will close at least through August 29, according to the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation
Rangers at the park have recently responded to complaints of bears rummaging for food in the campground area, and similar activity has prompted the U.S. Forest Service to close campgrounds and trails in the adjacent Appalachian Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

Bear sightings are often more frequent in late August and September as the animals range farther for food sources in anticipation of winter. Closing the campground will likely encourage bears to abandon the area to seek natural food sources.

The state park, which is on the highest peak in eastern North America, has installed wildlife-proof food storage bins and waste bins, and has developed an improved sign and information system to educate visitors in western parks about safety in areas frequented by bears.

To read more about bear problems at parks in NC mountains, click here.
Visitors to all state parks can lessen their chances of bear encounters or encounter bears more safely by following a few simple rules:

-- Put all food into wildlife-proof bins or store food, coolers, cooking and cleaning supplies, stoves, cosmetics and toiletries out of sight in a locked vehicle. Never store these items in vehicle passenger compartments, tents or backpacks.
-- Don't hike alone and make noise as you hike so that you won't surprise a bear.
-- If you encounter a bear, stop, then back away slowly and leave the area. Do not feed the animal, do not surround it, and do not run.
-- If a bear approaches, stand your ground or back away slowly. Do not run. Keep your group together, and make lots of noise and throw non-food items at the bear.
-- Back-country campers should carry bear-proof canisters, or bags to suspend their food at least 15 feet off the ground and five feet from any tree trunk. Backpacks should be left empty and open outside of tents.

To read about an actual encounter I had with 3 bears in Asheville this past April, click here: Happy Birthday Eli vs. the Bears