Is bear spray legal in California national parks?


Is bear spray legal in California national parks? Some rules vary between National Parks and National Forests. Can I bring a weapon or firearms into the parks? Weapons (including, but not limited to, BB, Pellet and Paint Guns, Bow/Arrow, Slingshots, Bear Spray and other compressed gas irritant devices) are illegal to possess.


Why is bear spray illegal in California national parks?

Bear spray is actually considered a weapon according to the park's regulations. According to Yosemite's official website: “the possession, use, or discharge of pepper spray (including bear spray), pellet guns, and BB guns in Yosemite National Park is prohibited.”


Can you carry bear spray in national parks?

NOTE: Bear spray is not allowed in every national park. Check with your national park to see if bear pepper spray is recommended or allowed for the activities you have planned. Having bear spray isn't useful if you don't know how to use it!


Do you need bear spray in redwoods?

Hiking Checklist - Redwoods There are black bears found throughout the Redwoods, but hiking with or without bear spray is truly up to your own discretion and comfort level in black bear territory.