Bear Safety
Increased Bear Activity
California State Parks is reminding visitors to exercise caution while camping or recreating at Silverwood Lake SRA due to an increase in bear sightings.
The park has recently received multiple reports of bear sightings and interactions, particularly in the New Mesa and Old Mesa Campgrounds. While bears are common in the region, the west end of the park has been historically absent of frequented bear activity. Bears are more commonly sighted in the densely wooded regions of the park, such as Miller Canyon.
While bears are captivating creatures, they pose a potential threat to both humans and pets. To minimize the risk of bear encounters in the campgrounds and other areas in the park during your visit, it is important to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Do not approach a bear or bear cubs. Mother bears will attack to protect their cubs.
- Keep food locked inside a vehicle, bearproof container, or inside your RV at night. Bears can open ice chests. Do not leave food in tents.
- Remove all trash to park-provided dumpsters when leaving your campsite and before going to bed.
- Minimize food and other odor products. Clean your dishes and utensils, keep your tent clean, and do not use fragrant perfumes, body sprays, or other scented products.
If you encounter a bear, it is important to:
- Make yourself appear large. Waive your arms, yell, make a loud noise, and throw rocks or sticks. Do not run.
- If the bear attacks, fight back aggressively. Black bear attacks are very rare.
- Notify Ranger staff immediately or call 911 to report an aggressive bear.
State Park Rangers are continuing to monitor the presence of bears within the park and are in coordination with California Department of Fish and Wildlife to relocate potentially troublesome bears. Remember to stay mindful of your surroundings and minimize your waste to keep bears away from your campsite.
