Understanding the risk
Food smells, garbage and pet food can attract wildlife. Rules differ by national park, provincial park and local campground.
Before your next trip
Read the manuals for your specific RV and installed equipment, record your vehicle dimensions and emergency contacts, and check the rules and emergency information for each campground. Make sure everyone travelling knows where to find the safety equipment.
Step-by-step safety checklist
- Read the campground wildlife notices and food-storage rules on arrival.
- Store food, garbage, toiletries and pet food in approved secure locations.
- Keep a clean cooking area and never feed or approach wildlife.
- Keep pets leashed where required and supervise children outdoors.
- If an animal approaches, follow the species-specific advice of park staff and report encounters.
Warning signs and responses
| Situation | What it may mean | Safer response |
|---|---|---|
| Bear near campsite | Food attractant or transit corridor | Give space; contact park staff |
| Animal accessing trash | Unsecured waste | Use approved wildlife-resistant disposal |
| Wildlife near road | Collision risk | Slow down safely and never stop in traffic |
Canadian considerations
Parks Canada and provincial park agencies provide region-specific bear, cougar, moose and other wildlife guidance.
Emergency response, park rules, wildfire restrictions, highway assistance and communications coverage differ by province, territory and location. Always follow the current instructions of emergency officials and the relevant park authority.
Practice and recordkeeping
Review this procedure with your travel companions before each major trip. Keep inspection records, alarm replacement dates, equipment manuals, campground coordinates and emergency contact details available offline. Recheck your supplies whenever your route or season changes.
Official resources
- Environment and Climate Change Canada — weather alerts and forecasts
- Government of Canada — emergency preparedness
- Parks Canada — visitor safety and park-specific rules
- Canadian Red Cross — first aid and preparedness
Use the links as starting points and confirm local information before departure.
Related safety guides
- RV Fire Prevention and Extinguisher Safety
- RV Emergency Exits and Evacuation Drills
- RV Smoke, Carbon Monoxide and Propane Alarms
- What to Do When Your RV Breaks Down
← All RV Safety & Emergencies guides
Wildlife in Canadian campgrounds
Bears, moose, elk and smaller animals are common. Store food securely, keep a clean site, follow park wildlife guidance and keep a safe distance.
Wildlife basics
- Parks Canada advises staying at least 100 metres from bears, cougars and wolves and at least 30 metres from elk, deer, moose and bighorn sheep.
- Store food, garbage and scented items in a locked vehicle or bear-proof container.
- Never feed wildlife.
- Carry bear spray where recommended, and know how to use it.
- Keep pets leashed and close.
What if a bear approaches my campsite?
Stay calm, leave the area if you can do so safely, and report it to park staff. Never run.