Pisgah, NC, March 19, 2024 – As the signs of spring begin to emerge, so do the bears in the Pisgah National Forest! In an effort to ensure the safety of guests and wildlife alike, Naventure, the US Forest Service concessioner for camping and recreation sites in Pisgah Forest, announces the full-scale implementation of bear-proof boxes across its facilities.

In a significant investment to enhance safety protocols, Naventure is in the process of installing bear-proof boxes across its sites, including popular outdoor adventure destinations including Lake Powhatan, Davidson River and North Mills River Campground and Recreation Areas. These specialized boxes are designed to securely store food and waste, effectively deterring bears from scavenging and reducing potential encounters between humans and wildlife.

“As stewards of over 300 campsites in the Pisgah National Forest, it's our mission to innovate solutions that ensure a safer environment for both visitors and the natural habitat.," expressed Brian Johnson, Naventure's Director of Operations. "By equipping our campsites with bear-proof boxes, we aim to set a new standard in outdoor safety and conservation within Pisgah."

The installation of the bear-proof boxes underscores Naventure's commitment to maintaining a safe and environmentally responsible camping experience. The initiative is anticipated to span three years, with forty percent of the sites slated to be equipped with bear-proof boxes this year.

"We view this as a reinvestment in the Pisgah Forest, ensuring that it remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts while respecting the wildlife that call this area home," added Johnson.

As spring unfolds and outdoor activities resume, Naventure invites campers and nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of the season while adhering to safety guidelines and respecting the local wildlife.

Naventure operates and maintains the following campgrounds and recreation areas under a special use permit from the United States Forest Service:

• Cove Creek Upper & Lower Group Campground

• Davidson River Campground & Recreation Area

• Kuykendall Group Campground

• Lake Powhatan Campground & Recreation Area

• North Mills River Campground & Recreation Area

• Pisgah Glamping at Lake Powhatan

• Sliding Rock Recreation Area

• Sunburst Campground

• Wash Creek Horse Camp

• White Pine South Group Campground

• Wolf Ford Horse Camp