Is bear spray illegal in California national parks?

Some rules vary between National Parks and National Forests. Can I bring a weapon or firearms into the parks? Weapons (including, but not limited to, BB, Pellet and Paint Guns, Bow/Arrow, Slingshots, Bear Spray and other compressed gas irritant devices) are illegal to possess.



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Bear spray is actually considered a weapon according to the park's regulations. According to Yosemite's official website: “the possession, use, or discharge of pepper spray (including bear spray), pellet guns, and BB guns in Yosemite National Park is prohibited.”

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NOTE: Bear spray is not allowed in every national park. Check with your national park to see if bear pepper spray is recommended or allowed for the activities you have planned. Having bear spray isn't useful if you don't know how to use it!

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(Bear spray/pepper spray is not allowed in Yosemite.) If you have food out and are having trouble scaring the bear away, pack up all your food and leave the area.

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Hiking Checklist - Redwoods There are black bears found throughout the Redwoods, but hiking with or without bear spray is truly up to your own discretion and comfort level in black bear territory.

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If you do any hiking or camping in Yellowstone, you SHOULD bring bear spray. Generally, you don't need bear spray when visiting the popular and crowded geyser areas and villages, such as Old Faithful and Canyon Village.

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Bears are generally more visible this time of year and potentially more aggressive, which makes them even more of a safety concern for visitors. If you are out hiking, whether it is a tenth of a mile or a backcountry adventure, it is essential to carry bear spray for your safety.

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No bear spray allowed in Yosemite National Park The park doesn't have grizzlies (the main reason someone would carry bear spray in the first place). Even though about 500 black bears do roam the park, Yosemite has never reported a bear-on-human attack.

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Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Possession of weapons, including bear spray, is prohibited. Possession of firearms is subject to state regulations. In all wilderness areas along the JMT, proper food storage is mandatory.

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