How to Stop Bears from Trashing Your Home or Campsite

Summer is the time when hungry bears search for food, often roaming through backyards, campsites, and neighborhoods—especially in San Gabriel Valley foothill communities.

Bears are highly driven by scent and can detect food from up to 20 miles away. Improperly stored food or waste can attract not only bears, but also mountain lions, coyotes, deer, and raccoons.

Beyond being a nuisance, bears can pose a serious risk to homes, pets, livestock, and personal safety. Taking preventive action is essential.

Why Bears Are Attracted to Homes and Campsites

• Accessible trash and food waste
• Unsecured outdoor grills and food residue
• Pet food, bird feeders, and scented items
• Fruit trees with fallen or ripe produce

Tips to Bear-Proof Your Home

Follow these California Department of Fish and Wildlife–recommended strategies to prevent bear encounters:

• Set trash out on collection day only to limit exposure.
• Keep trash and recycling bins clean to reduce odors.
• Never leave food in your car, including groceries or pet food.
• Clean outdoor grills after every use and store them securely.
• Limit bird feeders to November–March and keep them inaccessible.
• Avoid leaving scented items outdoors such as lotions, candles, or repellents.
• Install motion-activated lights or alarms to deter wildlife.
• Harvest fruit trees promptly and remove fallen produce.
• Secure crawl spaces and openings to prevent entry or nesting.

Tips to Bear-Proof Your Campsite

• Never store food or toiletries in your tent.
• Use bear-proof lockers or secure food in your vehicle.
• Dispose of garbage regularly and keep campsites clean.
• Wash dishes immediately after meals.
• Clean grills thoroughly after each use.

Best Practices for Wildlife Safety

The key to preventing wildlife encounters is eliminating food sources and odors. Consistent habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of bears approaching your home or campsite.

By following these simple but effective steps, you can help protect your property while supporting safe coexistence with local wildlife.

Learn More About Bear Safety

For more information on preventing wildlife encounters, visit:

• California Department of Fish and Wildlife – Bear Safety and Prevention Tips