Many often find themselves asking, “How can I raccoon-proof my campsite?” Raccoons can be mean, smart animals, smarter than we give them credit for. They have very dexterous paws, along with nimble fingers. They can open zippers, trash lids, coolers, and more. Someone might think food is the same inside the tent, but it is still in reach for these cute creatures!

There are three main strategies people use to deter, or keep their food away from, raccoons. Strong smells are a great way to keep your site vermin-free, as raccoons have a very acute sense of smell. Things like pepper can be irritating to raccoons, effectively deterring them. Some say pet hair and human hair scattered around will keep them away. Poop bags, due to the smell, will also be beneficial. However, these smells can attract other animals that might be more troubling than a few raccoons. The smells can also damage vegetation around the campsite, ruining the environment for a few furry pets.

Another way is to just keep your site clean. Pick up and dispose of your trash, don't leave food scraps around your environment, and properly store your food. Either in trees, 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet away from a tree. Cars, keeping them safely hidden, or in ice chests that are bearproof. This is more of a natural, raccoon-friendly way to keep your food and items safe while you’re asleep or just on a hike!

Lastly, the best and most foolproof way of keeping your site raccoon-free is to not go camping. Staying at home, or even in your backyard, saves money, time, and mosquito bites. Having convenient bathroom access, along with a safe, warm bed, should be all the reason to skip the discomfort of camping and stay home. You can control the climate of your home, keeping you and your family warm and happy, all in the comfort of your home.

In short, save you and your family time, money, and a wasted weekend by staying home and making cookies this winter. Recently, there was a case in Lake Tahoe where someone was bitten by an infected flea and developed the bubonic plague by simply camping with his family. Officials say that the best way to avoid this is not to go camping. Stay safe, stay home!