Outdoor Etiquette & Allowed Uses on Bear-Paw Preserves

Dogs

​Dogs are allowed on Bear-Paw lands, except where expressly prohibited, so long as their handlers adhere to the following conditions:
  • Dogs must be under control at all times. If a dog is off leash and does not respond to commands promptly, under any & all circumstances, they are not under your control and should be leashed.
  • Help protect nesting wildlife. Dogs should be kept on leash during bird nesting season (March 15 – July 15).
  • Remove dog waste. Dogs’ fecal matter can contain bacteria & diseases that are harmful to the ecosystem, and it doesn’t take long for their waste to build up on trails. All dog waste should be removed all year round.

Hunting, Fishing & Foraging

Hunting is allowed on Bear-Paw Preserves unless otherwise posted. Written permission is not required so long as hunters adhere to the following conditions:
  • Written permission is required to place temporary tree stands and hunting blinds
  • Permanent tree stands attached to trees with bolts or nails and stands or blinds made out of natural materials gathered from the surrounding area are not allowed
  • Tree stands and blinds must be tagged with easily visible owner identification and contact information
  • Motorized vehicles are not to be driven beyond designated parking areas, including during the installation or removal of tree stands and blinds, gear, or for the removal of animal carcasses

Fishing is allowed unless otherwise posted; written permission is not required so long as fishing is done for educational or recreational purposes or for personal consumption.
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Foraging is allowed unless otherwise posted; written permission is not required so long as foraging is done for personal consumption and in an ecologically sound and sustainable manner.

Mountain Bikes, E-Bikes, & Horses

Mountain bikes, e-bikes, and horseback riding are allowed on marked trails only.

Wheeled Motorized Vehicles

​There are absolutely no wheeled motorized vehicles allowed on any Bear-Paw lands for recreation, hunting, or other personal reasons at any time. This includes all off-road vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), dune buggies, or dirt bikes, as well as standard or modified passenger cars. Any person or persons found driving or riding an unauthorized wheeled motorized vehicle on Bear-Paw property will be persecuted to the fullest extent of the law.