How to Keep Wildlife Away at Night: Safety Tips for Camping and Moonlit Hikes

There’s nothing quite like camping under a starry sky, a crackling fire, and the sounds of nature lulling you to sleep. The last thing you want is to wake up with unexpected visitors rifling through your gear! Wildlife encounters are part of the great outdoors, but keeping a safe distance is key to an enjoyable time—for you and the animals.

1. Store Food Like a Pro

Rule number one: if it smells, it’s an invitation. Wildlife, especially animals like bears, raccoons, and even small rodents, have incredible senses of smell. That’s why it’s crucial to store your food properly. Use airtight containers or, better yet, a bear canister. Hanging your food at least 12 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from tree trunks will keep curious critters from helping themselves to your snacks.

2. Keep a Clean Campsite

"Leave no trace" doesn’t just mean respecting the environment—it also means leaving no crumb behind. After meals, make sure to clean your cooking area thoroughly. Food scraps, greasy pots, and leftover packaging can attract scavengers. Dispose of your trash in bear-proof bins or hang it alongside your food. In areas where bear bins aren’t available, pack out all waste. It may feel like overkill, but it’s better than an uninvited guest sniffing around your tent at 3 a.m.

3. Let There Be (Some) Light

Wild animals tend to be wary of fire, so keeping a small campfire or lantern going at night can be a natural deterrent. However, it’s important to strike a balance. A roaring fire might keep animals away, but it can also disrupt the environment and disturb nocturnal creatures in a way that defeats the purpose of your camping trip. Instead, opt for a small, controlled fire or a lantern that gives you visibility without creating too much light pollution. Not to mention, there’s nothing cozier than a warm glow lighting up your campsite! (As always, follow local fire safety guidelines and never leave a fire unattended.)

4. Know Your Wildlife

Before you hit the trail, do a little research on the local wildlife and their habits. Are you camping in an area known for bears, coyotes, or mountain lions? Or are the nighttime critters more likely to be smaller scavengers like raccoons or skunks? Understanding the kinds of animals in the area and their behavior can help you prepare. For example, if you’re in bear country, carry bear spray and know how to use it. If you’re dealing with smaller critters, storing food and using repellents might be enough.

5. Minimize Scents (And Not Just Food)

Animals aren’t just drawn to food smells. Hygiene products like deodorant, sunscreen, and even your bug spray can be attractive to wildlife. When you’re packing for your trip, opt for unscented versions of toiletries when possible. Store toiletries just like you would your food—away from your tent and in an airtight container. Pro tip: clothes you wear while cooking should be stored with food, not in your tent. Animals can pick up those food particles and scents lingering on your gear.

6. Use Natural Deterrents

Looking for a natural way to keep animals at bay? Try citronella or peppermint oil, which can act as mild deterrents for some animals. You can also try noise deterrents like wind chimes or a portable, motion-activated alarm that makes sounds when something gets too close. Just be mindful—these tools can help deter smaller animals, but they won’t be enough for large predators. Your best defense is smart food storage and situational awareness.

7. Don’t Forget About Your Gear

Even if you’ve stashed away your food and toiletries, don’t forget about your gear. Packs, coolers, and cooking equipment can absorb food odors and attract wildlife. Make sure everything is stored securely or hung up with your food. And when you’re finished cooking or snacking, pack it all away—even if you’re planning to use it again later.

8. Make Noise on Moonlit Hikes

Night hikes can be an amazing way to experience the outdoors from a new perspective, but they also come with a few extra considerations. Wildlife is often more active at night, so it’s important to make your presence known. Bring a headlamp, talk with your hiking buddies, and don’t be shy about making some noise! Singing or clapping occasionally will help let animals know you’re coming, giving them plenty of time to move away. If hiking solo, consider bringing a whistle or bear bell as an extra precaution.

9. Respect the Wildlife

While it’s important to keep wildlife away from your campsite, it’s equally important to respect their habitat. Don’t feed animals (ever), keep a safe distance if you do encounter wildlife, and remember—you’re the visitor in their home. Admire from afar.

Camping and moonlit hikes are excellent ways to connect with nature, but keeping wildlife at a safe distance is key to a successful trip. With a little preparation, you can minimize your impact on the environment, keep yourself safe, and ensure your nighttime adventures are as peaceful as they are exciting. Just remember: a clean campsite is a safe campsite, and nature always rewards those who respect it.