In short
- Store all food in a bear-resistant barrel or hang it from a tree.
- Pack food in reusable plastic or bags; cans and glass are banned.
- Keep a completely clean campsite to avoid attracting wildlife.
In this article
Algonquin Park is a massive protected wilderness area that serves as a natural habitat for black bears. Managing your food correctly is the most important step in preventing unwanted encounters during your canoe trip.
Are there bears in Algonquin Park?
Yes, black bears live naturally throughout Algonquin Provincial Park.
The park spans 7,653 square kilometers (2,955 square miles) of rugged Canadian Shield. Black bears, along with moose, loons, and wolves, inhabit these forests. You must store your food securely so wildlife does not associate campers with meals.
How do I store food safely in the backcountry?
You must use either a bear-resistant food barrel or a rope and pulley system.
Using a bear-resistant barrel is the easiest method. You can rent a rigid blue barrel from a park outfitter or bring your own. Alternatively, you can hang your food pack in a tree using ropes and a pulley.
How do I do a bear hang?
Use a strong rope and a pulley to hoist your food bag high off the ground.
Bring ropes, a pulley, and dry bags for your food. You must find a sturdy tree branch away from the trunk. The bag must hang high enough that a standing bear cannot reach it, and far enough from the trunk that a climbing bear cannot swipe it.
What are the rules for packaging food?
Cans and glass bottles are strictly prohibited in the entire backcountry.
This rule prevents litter and protects the environment. Pack dehydrated camping meals or transfer your food into burnable or reusable plastic containers before your trip. Keep all trash stored safely with your food.
How do I keep a clean campsite?
You must clean up all food scraps, trash, and scented items immediately.
Store your food away as soon as you finish eating. Wash your dishes away from your sleeping area. The maximum group size is 9 people per site, so coordinate with your group to ensure everyone follows these rules.
Questions travellers ask
Can I use live baitfish in Algonquin?
No. The possession or use of live baitfish is completely banned in the park's waters to protect native aquatic ecosystems.
Do backcountry campsites have bear bins?
No. Backcountry sites are primitive and do not have built-in bear bins. You must set up a bear hang or bring a bear-resistant barrel yourself.
Are there outhouses at the campsites?
Most designated backcountry campsites have simple box privies. You should still pack a trowel and toilet paper to prepare for emergencies.
