Yellowstone National Park is home to a thriving population of grizzly and black bears, making proper food storage a critical safety concern for all visitors. Whether you’re camping in the frontcountry campgrounds or venturing into the backcountry, understanding and following the park’s food storage guidelines is essential to prevent bears from becoming food-conditioned and potentially aggressive.
Frontcountry Campgrounds: Secure Your Food in Bear Boxes
When camping in Yellowstone’s frontcountry campgrounds, the primary method of food storage is the use of bear-proof boxes, commonly known as “bear boxes.” These sturdy, metal containers are designed to keep bears out and your food secure.
- Bear Boxes: Yellowstone provides bear-proof food storage boxes at all of its roadside campgrounds. These boxes are conveniently located within each campsite, making it easy to store your food and other scented items.
- Vehicle Storage: If a bear box is not available, you can store your food in the trunk of your locked vehicle, ensuring that it is out of sight and the interior is clean and free of any food wrappers or crumbs.
Backcountry Camping: Proper Food Storage is a Must
Venturing into Yellowstone’s vast backcountry requires a more comprehensive approach to food storage to keep bears at a safe distance.
- Bear Canisters: Carrying a bear-resistant canister is mandatory for all backcountry campers in Yellowstone. These specialized containers are designed to withstand a bear’s attempts to access the contents, effectively deterring them from approaching your campsite.
- Food Poles: Many backcountry campsites in Yellowstone are equipped with food poles, which allow you to hang your food bags at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from any trees or posts.
- Hard-Sided Containers: In addition to bear canisters, you can use Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) approved hard-sided containers, panniers, or coolers to store your food and other scented items. These containers must be properly secured, latched, and/or locked, and should be placed on the ground at the base of the food pole or in the designated cooking area.
General Food Storage Guidelines
Regardless of whether you’re camping in the frontcountry or backcountry, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind when it comes to food storage in Yellowstone National Park:
- What Counts as Food: Anything with a scent, including soap, lotion, cosmetics, trash, and pet food, must be stored properly to avoid attracting bears.
- Cleanliness: Keep your campsite clean and tidy, and store all food and scented items in the designated areas. Avoid cooking, eating, and sleeping in the same location.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of all waste, including food scraps and wrappers, in the park’s bear-resistant cans or dumpsters.
The Importance of Proper Food Storage
Yellowstone National Park places a strong emphasis on proper food storage to prevent bears from becoming food-conditioned. When bears associate humans with food, it can lead to aggressive behavior and the potential need for euthanization. By following the park’s guidelines, visitors can help protect both themselves and the bears, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Sponsor a Bear Box
Yellowstone Forever, the official nonprofit partner of Yellowstone National Park, offers the opportunity to sponsor a bear box. By sponsoring a bear box, you can contribute to the installation and maintenance of these essential food storage containers, helping to keep both visitors and bears safe.