Breaking New Minnesota Camping Law Could Land You In Jail!

Breaking this new Minnesota camping law could get you a big fine and even jail time!

There is a brand new law in Minnesota that could affect thousands of campers.

Nestled in northeast Minnesota, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a breathtaking and secluded natural haven primarily accessible by canoe.

This vast expanse stretches across 150 miles along the U.S.-Canada border, encompassing approximately 1,098,000 acres of pristine wilderness.

With over 1,100 lakes and 1,500 miles of canoe routes, it offers an unparalleled opportunity for exploration and adventure.

Annually, more than 150,000 visitors are drawn to this remarkable destination, seeking to immerse themselves in its untamed beauty.

If you have ever camped in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness you know that you are supposed to hang your food pack from a tree so bears can not steal your provisions.

Some campers opt to use a common blue “bear barrel”. Well, those won't be allowed anymore.

There is a new rule for BWCAW campers...“In effect March 1-November 30 each year, except while being prepared, consumed, or under on-site visual observance, all food, food containers, scented items (such as soap, lip balm, toothpaste) and refuse shall be suspended at least 12 feet above the surface of the ground and not less than 6 feet horizontally from the trunk of a tree, or stored in an Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee certified bear-resistant container.”

The Minnesota Forest Service states that the order requiring proper food storage stems from a rise in harmful encounters between humans and bears.

Pattle and Portage is reporting what could happen if you get caught breaking the new BWCAW food storage rules...“Any violation of this prohibition is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, or both.”