Essential Safety Tips for Camping in Black Bear Country
At Basecamp Brooklyn, we know that escaping the concrete jungle for the wilds of the Northeast is a rite of passage for New Yorkers. Whether you're pitching your tent in the Catskill Mountains, heading west to the Pennsylvania Wilds, or exploring the lush forests of New England, being prepared is key—especially when camping in bear country. While black bears, a symbol of wilderness, are magnificent creatures, it’s essential to prioritize safety for both you and the bears. Here’s how to do just that.
1. Research and Plan
Before heading out, do your homework. Know the type of bears you might encounter—whether it’s black bears, which are commonly found in the Northeast, or another species in different regions. Understanding their behavior, habitats, and local regulations can help you make informed decisions. This knowledge not only ensures your safety but also deepens your connection with the environment you're about to explore.
In states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine, black bears (Ursus americanus) are the primary species you’ll encounter. For example, the Catskill Mountains alone host around 1,500 to 2,000 black bears, particularly in higher altitudes between 1,800 and 3,300 feet. Keep this in mind as you plan your trip.
2. Store Food Securely
Bears have an extraordinary sense of smell, so be meticulous about food storage. When backpacking use bear-resistant containers or food lockers, and hang food and scented items like toiletries at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from any support. If you’re car camping, the simplest solution is to pack all your food into the car after dinner, making sure the windows are rolled up completely.
Staying in a cabin? Keep your food indoors except for what you’re eating at that moment, and be sure to close doors and windows—especially at night—so you can sleep peacefully without worrying about bears looking for a midnight snack.
Remember, your campsite should be as scent-free as possible. Also, keep your cooking area separate from where you sleep to avoid attracting curious bears.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
Leave no trace is a mantra we live by at Basecamp Brooklyn. Dispose of garbage and food scraps in bear-proof bins. If those aren't available, follow campsite-specific guidelines, and never bury or burn waste—it can still attract bears. A clean campsite ensures your safety and helps maintain the natural balance.
4. Choose Your Campsite Wisely
When setting up camp, opt for locations away from trails and natural bear corridors. Look for clearings with good visibility, allowing you to spot wildlife from a distance. Avoid camping near rivers, berry patches, or carcass sites, as these are common bear feeding grounds. Established campsites often have safety measures in place, so they’re always a smart choice.
5. Invest in Bear-Resistant Containers
Bear-resistant containers aren't just for food—they're for anything that smells, including toothpaste, deodorant, and sunscreen. These containers are your best bet to keep your gear safe and avoid bear encounters. It’s a must-have for serious campers.
6. Make Noise
Bears tend to avoid humans, but it’s still wise to make your presence known. Talk, sing, or clap your hands while hiking or moving around camp. If you’re in a group, even better—bears are less likely to approach a crowd. Making noise is a simple yet effective way to prevent unexpected run-ins.
7. Be Bear Aware
Familiarize yourself with bear behavior and learn how to react in different situations. Recognize signs of stress or agitation in a bear and know how to differentiate between defensive and predatory behavior. Always give bears plenty of space and never attempt to feed or approach them. Respect their wild nature.
8. Carry Bear Spray, where legal
If Bear spray is legal in your state, it can be a powerful last line of defense, but it’s essential to know how to use it. Keep it easily accessible, such as in a holster or outer backpack pocket, and practice using it before your trip.
In New York, bear spray is essentially illegal because most commercial bear sprays exceed the legal capsaicin concentration limit. Carrying a legal personal defense spray (pepper spray) can offer some protection, but it’s not as effective because of how close you’d need to be to reach the bear with the spray.
Therefore it is a much better plan to concentrate on preparation and avoidance, rather than thinking you can scare the bear away once it gets close.
Black Bears in the Catskills: A Local Guide
The Catskill Mountains in New York boast one of the highest concentrations of black bears in the state, particularly on the north side of the Kaaterskill Mountain Range. If you're camping in this region, you'll be among an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 bears, making bear safety even more crucial.
Bear Characteristics
Male black bears in the Catskills typically weigh around 300 pounds, though some can reach up to 750 pounds. Females average closer to 160 pounds. While most (99%) black bears in the Catskills are black, a rare few (1%) may be brown or even albino, though these variations are more common on the west coast.
Unlike some areas of the country, the Catskills do not have grizzly, brown, or polar bears.
Behavior and Habitat
Black bears are omnivores, feeding on berries, acorns, seeds, and insects. They also scavenge bird seed, trash, or pet food when accessible. They can eat an entire cooler of camp food, hence why the food storage precautions are so important!
While black bears are most active at dawn and dusk, they tend to roam at night in areas where humans frequent. They are excellent climbers, fast runners (up to 40 mph), and strong swimmers.
Bears are usually most active from April to November. They hibernate starting in January, and mothers give birth during this time. While generally peaceful, mothers can become aggressive if disturbed near their dens.
Recognizing Signs of Bears
To stay alert in bear country, look out for:
Clawed trees: Bears leave claw marks between 4 to 7 feet off the ground.
Bear scat: Black bear droppings vary in size but are usually dark and larger than dog and deer scat.
Ground diggings: Bears dig for insects, especially ants. Fresh signs of claw marks, scat, or ground disturbances mean bears are nearby, so proceed with caution.
Avoiding and Managing Bear Encounters
Avoiding Bear Encounters
Make noise while hiking, especially in dense brush or near food sources like blueberry patches. Clap or shout to alert bears of your presence, and remain vigilant, especially if the wind is blowing in your face—bears may not smell you coming. If you encounter a bear, do not run; this could trigger their instinct to chase. Instead, back away slowly and avoid direct eye contact, giving the bear plenty of space.
In a Bear Encounter
In the rare event that a black bear shows aggressive behavior, stay calm and assess the situation. Your best defense is making noise, keeping your distance, and avoiding behaviors that attract bears in the first place.
If knocked down during an encounter, protect your head and neck with your hands and remain still—most bears will lose interest and leave. However, if a bear enters your tent or shows predatory behavior, it’s crucial to fight back with whatever is available to you.
While serious encounters are rare, being informed and prepared ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience in bear country.
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Remember: Embrace the Adventure, Respect the Wilderness
Camping in bear country is an unforgettable experience, but it comes with responsibilities. By following these essential tips, you’ll protect yourself and help preserve the natural harmony of the wilderness. At Basecamp Brooklyn, we’re all about making the great outdoors accessible and safe for everyone. Gear up, stay alert, and enjoy your adventure—because the best memories are made when you’re fully prepared.
Coming Soon - Basecamp Brooklyn Cabin in the Catskills!
Looking for a spot to get away from the city and enjoy wildlife? Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, our tiny house cabin will soon be ready to welcome guests for an unforgettable retreat. Get ready for cozy nights by the fire, breathtaking views, and the serenity of nature—all just a short drive from NYC. Be among the first to stay in our new cabin when bookings open this fall - Sign up for the waitlist on our homepage.
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