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Smith River Closed Due to Bear Activity

By Beacon Staff

HELENA — State parks officials are closing the Smith River State Park between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge due to black bear activity in boat camps.

Montana State Parks officials say bears have been getting into food storage coolers and show no fear of people. No one has been injured.

The bear activity has resulted in the need to close numerous boat camps, making it difficult to provide adequate and safe camping opportunities for those floating the central Montana river.

The river will be closed starting Saturday until wildlife managers can resolve the situation.

People with upcoming permits to float the river are being contacted by Smith River State Park staff.