Camp Grizzly
What would you do if you returned from a hike to find two grizzly bears exploring your campsite? At the Zoo, we want to help you ensure that never happens; our exhibit signage and education programs focus on the importance of safe, bear-proof camping.


Taking advantage of unattended snacks is not new for the Zoo’s bears, Ronan and Finley. They were born in the wild, but were designated “problem bears” after repeatedly returning to populated areas where food and garbage were improperly secured. Reid Park Zoo worked with US Fish and Wildlife to provide the bears a new home so they would not have to be destroyed. Not only did coming to the Zoo save their lives, but now Ronan and Finley help us start conversations with guests about their role in reducing human-bear conflict in the wild.
Keep an eye out for future programs like this one, and remember to protect your own campsite by keeping any food or scented objects in a bear-proof container, or hung high in a tree. When you’re in bear habitat, it pays to be bear-aware!