The answer to whether there are bears in the Broken Bow area of Oklahoma is yes. The region’s extensive wilderness areas, particularly the dense forests of the southeastern corner of the state, provide a suitable habitat for a healthy bear population. Visitors should be aware that they are entering bear country, especially when exploring the remote sections of the surrounding public lands. The presence of this wildlife necessitates that visitors understand and practice appropriate safety measures while enjoying the natural environment.
The American Black Bear in Southeast Oklahoma
The only species of bear found in Oklahoma is the American Black Bear, which has established a strong presence in the state’s eastern half. This population is concentrated in the rugged woodlands of the Ouachita Mountains, which includes the areas around Broken Bow, Hochatown, and Beavers Bend State Park. The bears thrive in this environment due to the thick cover, rocky terrain, and abundant natural food sources like nuts, berries, and insects.
The current population is largely the result of a successful reintroduction effort that began in the late 1950s and early 1960s in Arkansas. Bears relocated from northern states expanded their range into eastern Oklahoma, re-establishing a population that had been nearly eliminated by the early 1900s due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) actively monitors and manages the black bear population through research and limited hunting seasons.
The ODWC estimates the state’s black bear population to be in the thousands, with the highest density occurring in the southeastern counties. While black bears are generally shy and avoid human contact, their natural curiosity and powerful sense of smell can draw them toward human settlements and campsites. This is particularly true for younger male bears, called yearlings, who are often dispersing to find new territory during the summer months.
Essential Safety and Encounter Guidelines
Minimizing the chance of an encounter begins with proper management of food and scented items, as unsecured attractants are the most common cause of human-bear conflicts. Visitors should never leave food, garbage, or pet food outdoors. All scented items, including toiletries, must be stored in a secured container or a hard-sided vehicle. Cooking grills should be cleaned of all food residue after use and stored inside, or at least 50 yards away from wooded areas.
When hiking, make your presence known, especially in areas with dense vegetation or near water sources where a bear might not hear you approaching. Talking, clapping, or singing while walking helps prevent surprising a bear, which is often the trigger for a defensive reaction. Keeping pets on a leash and children close by also reduces the risk of an unexpected encounter.
If a bear is sighted, the most important rule is to remain calm and never run, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, stand your ground, speak in a low, calm voice to identify yourself as human, and slowly wave your arms to appear larger. Slowly backing away without turning your back is the recommended action, ensuring the bear’s escape route is not blocked.
If the bear approaches or an attack occurs, the response for a black bear differs from other species. In the rare event of a black bear attack, you should fight back vigorously using any available object, concentrating blows on the bear’s face and muzzle. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is an effective defense tool that should be readily accessible, not stored in a backpack.