More black bear interactions prompt warnings, camp closures at California national park

They didn’t get the memo about social distancing.

Portions of Lassen Volcanic National Park have been closed for back-country camping due to an uptick in black bear interactions. The closure, including the area east of Hat Creek, the Park Highway and Kings Creek, was expanded last week after multiple incidents of black bears getting food from backpackers were reported.

Lassen Volcanic National Park clarified in a statement that the areas are still open to hiking and stock use, but that visitors should be cautious.

While there have been numerous interactions, there are only about 30 black bears in the area. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have brown bears or grizzly bears.

Visitors are advised to keep belongings nearby, as bears are seeking food, and to be especially vigilant near water sources and vegetation.

If a visitor encounters a bear, they are advised to walk away slowly, park officials said. Lassen Volcanic National Park also asks that visitors report any wildlife sightings or interactions to park rangers.

This story was originally published July 19, 2020 at 5:00 AM.