Update: Nuisance bears caught, campground to reopen

Update 7-5-16 2:55 pm: Two black bears were trapped in the Teton Canyon area Monday. One of them is believed to be the bear that has been frequenting campgrounds in the area. At this time, the forest expects to reopen facilities in the area on Thursday.

Update: Monday, July 4

Teton-Basin District Ranger Jay Pence says a food-conditioned bear is still roaming Teton Canyon, despite significant efforts by many Wyoming Game and Fish employees who have been attempting to trap it.

The Treasure Mountain Scout Camp was scheduled to open for the season Monday, but leaders decided to close the camp this week to ensure the safety of their leaders and campers.

“There are a lot of people whose plans are being affected by this unfortunate situation, and I appreciate the support and extra effort that everyone is making,” said Pence.

Currently, the closure of the area includes Forest Road 012, the Sheep Bridge Trail, North and South Teton Trails, all dispersed or undeveloped campsites, and the Teton Canyon and Reunion Flat Campgrounds.

Original Story:

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest has closed the Teton Canyon Campground due to the presence of an aggressive bear nuisance that is being attracted to food.

Caribou-Targhee National Forest Supervisor, Garth Smelser, signed an Emergency Area Closure Order on Friday, July 1, 2016, closing the campground.

This order prevents public access to the Teton Canyon Campground, adjacent trailheads, dispersed camping, or other uses within a one-mile radius of the campground. Wyoming Game & Fish Department supports and encourages this action while they attempt to trap the bear and remove it from the area.

The purpose of this order is to protect human life and safety from a potential bear-human encounter, while trapping is being conducted. Displaced campers are being directed to other camping areas within the district.

People who violate the order can be fined up $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations.