Bear Encounters Surge at Yosemite as California Officials Warn Visitors to Stay Alert

California wildlife officials are warning campers and hikers to take extra precautions after encounters between people and black bears increased across several national parks, including Yosemite, as the animals search for food ahead of winter.

At Yosemite National Park, reported bear incidents rose 52 percent in 2026 compared with the previous year. By September 13, park records showed 50 incidents resulting in approximately $17,780 in property damage. These incidents include bears obtaining human food or damaging property, not only physical confrontations with people.

The increase comes during the fall feeding period, when black bears consume large amounts of food to build up fat reserves before winter. According to park officials, bears can spend up to 22 hours a day foraging and may need around 20,000 calories daily during this period.

As natural food sources become harder to find, bears may venture into campgrounds, picnic areas and parking lots in search of easy meals. Unsecured food, open storage lockers and improperly disposed garbage can attract the animals and encourage them to return.

The problem is not limited to Yosemite. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have also reported a substantial increase in human-bear conflicts. Data cited in recent reports shows incidents in those parks have risen 125 percent since 2020, while damage to property has increased sharply.

Vehicle collisions are another serious concern. Yosemite officials reported that at least 21 bears had been struck by vehicles in the park during 2026 as of September. Rangers continue to urge drivers to obey speed limits and watch for wildlife crossing roads.

The rise in incidents has also prompted concern from California senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff. They have raised questions about overcrowding, staffing shortages and the removal of the park’s vehicle reservation system, arguing that these factors may contribute to increased pressure on wildlife and visitor safety.

Park officials are reminding visitors that food, trash and scented items must be stored properly in designated bear-resistant lockers or containers. Campers should keep food secured, never leave snacks unattended and avoid storing food in vehicles overnight where prohibited.

Visitors who encounter a bear should maintain a safe distance and never approach or feed it. In developed areas, park guidance advises people to make loud noises to encourage a bear to leave, while avoiding actions that could bring them closer to the animal.

The National Park Service also warns that bears that become accustomed to human food can lose their natural fear of people, creating risks for both visitors and the animals themselves.

With bears continuing to forage heavily before winter, officials are urging everyone visiting California’s national parks to follow wildlife safety rules and help keep the animals wild.

Sources: Dailymail