Bears are back in action at SoCal Lake — advisory issued to help minimize encounters

HESPERIA – Silverwood Lake State Recreational Area issued an advisory, March 10, for campers and visitors, that bears are active again.

“In early 2024, Silverwood experienced its first significant rise in bear activity in the New Mesa and Old Mesa campgrounds, leading to the relocation of troublesome bears,” said a statement on Silverwood Lake’s Facebook page.

It goes on to say that these bears have returned, and sightings have increased, including reports of bears attempting to enter locked vehicles.

Large black bear population in San Bernardino National Forest

According to the USDA Forest Service, the San Bernardino National Forest is home to a large black bear (Ursus americanus) population.

These bears’ sense of smell and hearing are far superior to humans. Their eyesight is at least as good.

They are also natural scavengers. Bears will remember an easy food source and can visit campgrounds in search of food.

Bears can run 60% faster than the world’s fastest sprinter and they are strong. They have been known to pry open car doors and windshields in search of food.

Minimize risk of bear encounters

State Parks said to minimize the risk of bear encounters in the campgrounds and other areas in the park during a 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, bear proof container, or inside an RV at night. Bears can open ice chests. Do not leave food in tents.
Remove all trash to park-provided dumpsters when leaving a campsite and before going to bed.
Minimize food and other odor products. Clean dishes and utensils, keep tents clean, and do not use fragrant perfumes, body sprays, or other scented products.

If a visitor encounters a bear, it is important to:

Make yourself appear large. Wave your arms, yell, make a loud noise. 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 Parks advises staying mindful of your surroundings and minimizing waste to keep bears away from campsites.