Little Stoney Dispersed Camping Area closed amid bear activity due to trash

BUTLER, Tenn. (WJHL) — Leaders with the Cherokee National Forest announced a temporary closure of the Little Stoney Dispersed Camping Area on Watauga Lake due to “public health and safety” effective Aug. 30.

A news release from forestry officials said the closure is due to the significant amount of trash left behind by the public, which has caused bears to begin frequenting the location.

During the closure, signs will be posted and the area will be patrolled until the campground is cleaned and reopened by forestry officials.

“This behavior is against our eastern Tennessee values and dangerous to humans and wildlife,” said Terence Rose, district ranger for the Watauga Ranger District. “A very small few of our visitors unfortunately can cause great harm for everyone. When visiting recreational areas on the forest, please be mindful of others and clean up after yourself.”

According to the release, forestry workers located “dangerous and hazardous objects among the trash that must be cleaned before the area can be reopened.”

Forestry officials remind campers to follow the “Leave No Trace” principle of enjoying wildlife, be considerate of other visitors and help reduce the negative impact of trash in nature.

More information on the closure and cleaning efforts can be found by calling the Watauga Ranger District Office at (423) 735-1500.

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