Difficult Campground in White River National Forest has revoked its ban on tents and soft-sided campers following a bear incident where a black bear swiped at a tent with children inside. The ban was implemented after the United States Forest Service (USFS) prohibited tent camping due to safety concerns during bear season.
After the bear encounter, USFS relocated or refunded all tent campers at Difficult Campground. Bears have been a common sight in the area, with some even having names like Brutus. The host confirmed the frequent bear sightings and highlighted the current boldness of the bears around campers, causing concerns for both Forest Services and visitors.
Despite the incident, no injuries were reported, and the bear involved was unharmed. USFS emphasized public safety by coordinating closely with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Difficult Campground, located near Aspen, offers 47 sites surrounded by dense vegetation and the Roaring Fork River, attracting campers with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Visitors shared their experiences and precautions taken to stay safe from bears, including using bear spray and opting for trailer camping. The campground enforced stringent bear safety measures, including bear-resistant storage lockers and informative signage to prevent bears from accessing human food sources.
Deputy District Ranger Schuller emphasized the importance of securing all items that may attract bears, not limited to food, to ensure the safety of campers and wildlife. The campground’s proactive approach aligns with efforts to mitigate human-bear conflicts and promote responsible outdoor practices during bear season.
The incident at Difficult Campground underscores the need for campers to remain vigilant and adhere to bear safety guidelines to minimize risks and protect both visitors and wildlife. As bear encounters increase in outdoor settings, it is crucial for campers to prioritize safety measures and respect the natural habitats of these animals.
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