Many people are already planning their summer visit to America's foremost national park. Some visitors are planning on taking a backcountry camping trip. We routinely get asked about Yellowstone's backcountry regulations. Never camp in an area that has obvious evidence of bear activity such as digging, tracks, or scat.
Odors attract bears, so avoid carrying or cooking odorous foods.
All food, garbage, or other odorous items used for preparing or cooking food must be secured from bears. Most backcountry campsites have food poles from which all food, cooking gear, and scented articles must be suspended when not being used. Treat all odorous products such as soap, deodorant, or other toiletries in the same manner as food. Do not leave packs containing food unattended, even for a few minutes. Allowing a bear to obtain human food even once often results in the bear becoming aggressive about obtaining such food in the future.