Black bears looking for food have caused restrictions at Independence Pass campgrounds, and the U.S. Forest Service has no timeline to reopen those sites to tents.
Campers looking for a place up Independence Pass need a hard-sided vehicle or camper. Sites for the first six and a half miles up Lincoln Creek and at Weller campground remain closed to tents because of continued bear activity.
U.S. Forest Service district ranger Karen Schroyer reminds campers to secure their food in bear boxes found at most sites, or in locked cars with closed windows.
“The berry crops have not come out yet and so they’re looking for anything they can find to eat,” Schroyer said.
There has also been bear activity above the portal at Lincoln Creek and if that worsens, more restrictions may be added.
