Camping with Wildlife

Review Our Wildlife Policies

Tomahawk Wildlife Information & Policies

Tomahawk is home to many different animals native to the Midwest region. White-tailed deer, beavers, porcupines, black bears, snakes, turtles, and many others are commonly seen throughout the summer along. They all enrich the outdoor and camping experience and will create memories of your week at Tomahawk. However, they are all wild animals. For your and their protection, we require adherence to our wildlife policies. It is mandatory that all units, visitors, and staff read and follow the information in the Black Bear Education Manual. It provides information on campsite precautions when camping with wildlife, how to act in an encounter with wildlife, and ways to ensure you have a safe week at camp.

Bears

Seeing a bear at camp can be very exciting, and it's important to be prepared for this encounter. Please review the information on bears in the Black Bear Manual.

The training in the Black Bear Manual is mandatory. Groups will not be allowed past check-in until we have received a signed copy stating that you have completed the training.

Tomahawk provides a “Bear Box” in each campsite for units to store smell-ables. The “Bear Boxes” are old streetlight electrical boxes that stand about 6 feet tall, 3 feet wide and about two feet deep. It is recommended that each Scout brings a small plastic tote (approx. 6’’x5’’x9’’) to store personal hygiene items and snacks. Please note that while they will keep the large critters out, the “Bear Boxes” will not always keep the small critters, such as mice and insects, out.

Ticks

The forests of Tomahawk are home to many animals including Ticks. It's important to know how to camp in areas that have ticks, as ticks are known carriers of various diseases. Make sure to review the Tick Borne Illness page with your unit.

Mosquitoes

Wetlands and other bodies of water, which are a breeding ground for Mosquitoes, surround Tomahawk. Tomahawk does treat the areas of camp, but we would encourage units to bring mosquito netting as well as bug spray.

Other Animals

It's important to remember to Respect Wildlife, a key point in Leave no Trace. When you see an animal in the wild, do not chase after them, feed them, or try to lure them. This is for their safety as well as your own. Its important to remember you may be up for a week, but Tomahawk is home to these animals year round.