Increased bear activity has led Glacier National Park officials to temporarily close the St. Mary Campground, located on the east side of the park. The campground has seen a recent increase in bears, creating a high potential for unpleasant encounters between humans and bruins.

No incidents between humans and bears have been reported in the campground to date. 

Beginning August 28th, the campground was only open to hard-sided camping. Since that announcement, there has been increased bear activity in and around the campground. Efforts to haze the bears from the area have been unsuccessful. 

At this time of year, bears are entering a phase called hyperphagia. It is a period of concentrated feeding to prepare for hibernation. This year there has been an exceptionally abundant crop of a variety of berries located in the campground, attracting bears to the area. There has been a shortage of berries in other areas of the park.

Glacier National Park is home to black and grizzly bears. Campers are reminded to keep campground and developed areas clean and free of food and trash. Regulations require that all edibles, food containers, and cookware be stored in a hard-sided vehicle or food locker when not in use, day or night. Visitors are required to place all trash in bear-proof containers. Visitors should report all bear sightings to a park ranger as soon as possible.