USE CAUTION - BE BEAR AWARE

Black bear sighting has been reported at the Island Lake Campground on the Mio Ranger District. Report bear sightings, particularly if the bear is acting aggressively or entering campsites, to the Mio Ranger Station at (989) 826-3252.

Black Bears are a native species commonly found throughout Northern lower Michigan. Seeing a bear in a campground can be exciting, but it's important to remember these are wild animals. Campers can often be caught off guard when encountering a bear.

Following key guidelines can help keep both you and the bear safe:

Do not approach the bear:

• Maintain a safe distance, at least 100 yards (300 feet);
• Resist the urge to get closer for photos or a better look.
• Keeping your pets leashed is paramount to their safety.

Secure food and other attractants:

• Bears are attracted to anything with a scent, including toiletries, cosmetics and even canned goods.
• Store all food, garbage, and scented items in bear-resistant containers, lockers, or a hard-sided vehicle with windows closed, not inside your tent or backpack.
• Wash up, change clothes you cooked in or handled fish or game in.

Keep your camp clean:

• Immediately clean up all food preparation and eating utensils and place them in sealed, bear-proof containers or a vehicle.
• Food scraps or other attractants in a campfire can still draw bears.

If a bear approaches:

• If in a group, stay together and act together.
• Make noise by yelling or using an air horn to alert the bear from a distance; loud screams or high-pitched squeals sound like a prey animal.
• Make yourself look as big as possible (stand tall, wave arms overhead).
• Slowly back away, allowing the bear an escape route.
• Use bear spray as a last resort in case of an aggressive encounter.