Living in Bear Country: Safety Guidelines for Old Faithful RV Park Guests
Old Faithful RV Park is located in active bear country along the Shoshone River corridor between Cody and Yellowstone National Park. Both black bears and grizzly bears inhabit this area. Your safety—and the bears'—depends on proper food storage and bear-aware behavior during your stay.
Essential Bear Safety Rules at Our Park
Food & Garbage Storage (CRITICAL)
- Never leave food, coolers, or garbage outside unattended
- Store all food, toiletries, and scented items inside your RV or cabin
- Use bear-resistant containers when available
- Dispose of garbage in designated dumpsters immediately—don't let it accumulate at your site
- Bird feeders are NOT permitted at Old Faithful RV Park (they attract bears)
Pet Safety
- Keep pets inside at night
- Feed pets indoors when possible; if feeding outside, only during daylight hours
- Remove pet food bowls immediately after feeding—never leave food out overnight
- Store pet food in sealed containers inside your RV or cabin
- Keep dogs on leash (6 feet maximum) at all times
Personal Safety
- Supervise children closely, especially during dawn and dusk
- Make noise when walking around the park, especially near the river or wooded areas
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Never approach or feed bears—observe from a safe distance only
If You See a Bear
- Remain calm and back away slowly
- Do not run
- Make yourself appear large
- Speak in a calm, firm voice
- Report all bear sightings to park management immediately: (307) 250-1934
REMOVE ATTRACTANTS IMMEDIATELY
If a bear gets into garbage, pet food, or other attractants at your site:
- Remove the attractant immediately
- Notify park management: (307) 250-1934
- Report to Wyoming Game & Fish: 1-800-442-4331
Bears that receive repeated food rewards become dangerous and often must be euthanized. Your vigilance protects both you and the bears.
Want to Learn More About Bear Safety?
We've created a comprehensive guide to help you stay safe and enjoy your time in bear country. Our detailed blog post covers:
- The difference between black bears and grizzly bears in our area
- What to do during a bear encounter (detailed response strategies)
- How to use bear spray effectively
- Hiking safety in Yellowstone and surrounding areas
- Bear behavior and warning signs
- Food storage best practices
- And much more!
Read Our Complete Bear Safety Guide →
This essential resource will help you understand bear behavior, prepare for encounters, and make smart decisions during your stay in Yellowstone Country.
Additional Bear Country Resources
- Wyoming Game & Fish - Living in Bear Country: Living in Bear Country | Wyoming Game & Fish Department
- Yellowstone National Park Bear Safety: Bear Safety - Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Bear Spray Information: Learn proper use and carry techniques
Bear Safety is Everyone's Responsibility
At Old Faithful RV Park, we take bear safety seriously. By following these guidelines and staying informed, you help protect yourself, your family, and Wyoming's bear populations.
Questions about bear safety during your stay? Contact us at (307) 250-1934 or via email at OldFaithfulRVPark@gmail.com.