Porta Potty Forum
Log inAsk a question

Hunting camp: Will a standard unit attract bears to our site?

Luis A.asked 1 viewHome Renovations & Long-termOdorLong term rentalHunting campWildlifeStandard unit

Setting up our hunting camp in western Montana for a 3-week season with six hunters. We cook and eat at camp, so there's food around. The ground is uneven forest floor, but the service truck can pull right up to the spot. I'm considering a standard portable toilet for the crew, but we're in heavy grizzly and black bear country. Worried the odor from the holding tank might act like a lure. Has anyone in bear territory used a standard unit without drawing in wildlife? What steps work to keep bears away from the unit?

1 answer

Sorted by votes
0
Marcus B.Chicago, IL

A standard unit will attract bears to your camp because the holding tank odor acts as a lure in bear country. I have seen hunters in Montana use standard units without incident by taking specific precautions. You need to manage odors and treat the unit like any other food attractant.

The main step is to control odors. Request that the rental company use a strong formaldehyde-free deodorizer at every service visit. For six people over three weeks, weekly service is the norm, but you may need a mid-season extra service if the unit gets heavy use. Ensure the door is always latched shut. Place the unit downwind and at least 100 yards from your cooking and sleeping areas, on the most level ground you can find. Follow all your standard bear-safety protocols: keep a clean camp, store all food and trash in bear-proof containers away from tents, and never leave anything scented inside the portable toilet, like wet wipes or food wrappers. With these measures, a standard unit can work, but the risk is never zero in grizzly territory.

Your answer

Log in or create a free account to answer this question.

Related questions