It is important to remember that bears are very opportunistic feeders. They have very good memories regarding food sources. While seeing a 400-700 or 800 pound black bear could be the highlight and most memorable part of your vacation, please remember - no matter how tame they appear to be, bears are still wild animals! Do not let your dog run loose. Dogs are territorial. They would not have a chance around a bear.

Bears love to eat fruit and nuts and all types of human food. Many campers have lost their entire week's supply of food to hungry bears. Keep a clean campsite. Never have food in your tent. Always conceal food in bear-proof containers and wash all cooking utensils. Hang your clothing

beyond the reach of bears, and be sure to wash food off your face before going to bed. The scent of a candy bar can be very tempting to a bear. Bears are nocturnal creatures. If you sprinkle ammonia on the garbage bags and in the can before securing the lid,this will help.

If a bear comes into camp: do not feed it! Startle it away. Make loud noises! Bang pans, yell, or use airhorns. Wave your arms. Don't be gentle! Chase it away. Throw rocks or pieces of firewood. NEVER GET CLOSER THAN 15 FEET OF THE BEAR. Bears may make threatening sounds, stand upright or possibly bluff charge. They might unnerve you with their blowing sounds, clacking teeth, lunging, laid back ears, and slapping the ground or trees and a short rush.

 These are all signs that you are too close.