Keeping Food Secure from Wildlife

When camping with your dogs, securing food—both yours and theirs—is a critical step to ensure safety, maintain a peaceful campsite, and protect wildlife. Animals are naturally drawn to the scent of food, and improper storage can lead to dangerous encounters, loss of supplies, and disruptions to the natural ecosystem. Here’s how to keep your food secure and minimize risks while enjoying the great outdoors.

1. Understanding the Risks

Wildlife, including bears, raccoons, squirrels, and birds, are highly attracted to food scents. Improper storage can lead to several issues:

• Attracting Dangerous Wildlife: Bears and other large animals may enter your campsite, putting you and your pack at risk.

• Loss of Food Supplies: Animals scavenging through your supplies can ruin food, leaving you unprepared to continue your trip.

• Disrupting Natural Behaviors: Feeding or enticing wildlife can create dependencies and disrupt ecosystems, leading to long-term consequences.

2. Techniques for Securing Food

Bear-Resistant Canisters

• What They Are: Durable, sealable containers designed to keep wildlife out of food and scented items.

• Why Use Them: Essential in bear country and often required by park regulations.

• How to Use:

  • Store all food, treats, and scented items (toothpaste, deodorant, dog chews) in the canister.

  • Place the canister at least 200 feet away from your campsite, hidden behind a natural barrier like a boulder or thick vegetation.

Bear Bags and Hanging Systems

• What They Are: Lightweight, animal-resistant bags (often made of Kevlar) that are suspended from trees to keep food out of reach.

• How to Use:

1. Pack all food, treats, and scented items in the bear bag.

2. Find a sturdy tree at least 200 feet from your campsite.

3. Suspend the bag 10–15 feet above the ground and 6 feet from the tree trunk or branches to prevent animals from climbing to it.

• Pro Tip: Practice tying secure knots, like the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) method, for hanging food bags before your trip.

Odor-Proof Bags

• What They Are: Airtight, sealable bags designed to trap food odors and prevent wildlife detection.

• How to Use:

  • Place food inside the odor-proof bag before storing it in a bear canister or hanging it.

  • Use for dog food as well to reduce the number of scent trails leading to your camp.

3. Managing Dog Food Storage

Dog food has a strong scent and can attract wildlife just as much as human food.

• Pre-Portion Meals: Divide food into single servings and store them in resealable, odor-proof bags. This reduces waste and keeps food fresh.

• Store with Your Food: Place dog food bags in the same bear canister or bear bag as your food supplies to consolidate scents.

• Clean Up After Feeding: Remove all uneaten food and crumbs immediately after your dogs finish eating.

4. Keeping Food Secure at the Campsite

Set Up a Food-Free Zone

• Keep all food, treats, and scented items at least 200 feet from your sleeping area to avoid attracting wildlife near your tent.

• Use a designated cooking and feeding area separate from your campsite.

Supervise Feeding Times

• Feed your dogs only what they can eat in one sitting. Avoid leaving bowls of food unattended.

• Clean bowls thoroughly after feeding and store them securely with your food.

Stay Vigilant

• Regularly monitor your campsite for signs of wildlife activity, such as tracks or disturbed vegetation.

• Avoid feeding or cooking near dusk or dawn, when many animals are most active.

5. Reducing Food Odors

Minimizing food odors can significantly reduce the chances of attracting wildlife.

• Seal Containers Properly: Use airtight or odor-proof bags and canisters to trap scents.

• Cook Away from Camp: Prepare meals at least 200 feet from your sleeping area, and clean up thoroughly afterward.

• Pack Out Waste: Use odor-proof trash bags to store food scraps, packaging, and other waste. Dispose of it responsibly after the trip.

6. What to Do if Wildlife Approaches

Stay Calm

Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the animal.

Make Noise for Smaller Animals

• Clap, shout, or use a whistle to scare off raccoons or squirrels.

For Bears:

• Follow local guidelines. Typically:

  • Make Yourself Big: Stand tall, raise your arms, and use a firm voice.

  • Back Away Slowly: Never run; keep your movements controlled and deliberate.

  • Use Bear Spray: Only as a last resort if the bear is charging or approaching aggressively.

Never Chase Wildlife

• Keep your dogs leashed and under control to prevent them from escalating the situation.

Securing food during your camping trip is about more than protecting your supplies—it’s about safeguarding your pack and preserving the natural balance of the environment. By using bear-resistant canisters, odor-proof bags, and proper food storage techniques, you’ll minimize risks and enjoy a safer, more harmonious outdoor adventure. Responsible food storage ensures the wilderness remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone, including future generations of campers and their canine companions. Happy camping!