🐻 Bear Activity Prompts Temporary Camping Closure Near Mount Mitchell

Pisgah National Forest officials are closing the Commissary Ridge dispersed camping area following reports of increased bear activity.

BURNSVILLE, N.C. (Smokies.LIVE Adventure Center) — Increased bear activity is prompting a temporary closure of the dispersed camping area at Commissary Ridge on the Pisgah National Forest near Mount Mitchell State Park.

Officials say the closure is intended to help keep visitors safe and minimize encounters between people and bears.

Visitors in the area are reminded that bear safety is especially important during periods of increased activity.

🐻 BEAR SAFETY REMINDERS

• Secure food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or locked inside your vehicle.
• Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear.
• Give bears plenty of space. Back away and allow the bear to move on.
• Never feed wildlife.
• If you encounter a bear, stay calm, slowly back away and speak firmly.

The Forest Service says visitors should always practice proper food storage and wildlife safety while enjoying the outdoors.

For additional information on staying safe around bears, visit U.S. Forest Service bear safety information.