Tent camp for entire hunting seasons

[northernbill]

This year I joined a hunting club in the Cranberry Lake region, actually 2 clubs adjoined. There are about a dozen small camps on the properties, and I was invited to stay in one of the larger ones. I have the opportunity to build my own camp if i desire, and I believe I will, but not until next year. I really would like to set up my wall tent for the whole season, at the site of the future cabin. A life long friend has also joined and we would use the wall tent as our base. It’s a 12x14 with a 8’ walled awning on the front.
My biggest concern leaving the tent unattended is bears. There is a healthy black bear population on the property and I know how destructive they can be. What sort of precautions can any of you recommend. Is an electric fence necessary? I see there are some decent solar units used by bee keepers. Also, any tips on long term tent usage? I would like to get it set up this coming weekend. Hope to hear lots of input!

[Tug Hill]

I have hunted in the ADKs many seasons out of a wall tent. We have never had any bear problems at our tents. Main thing keep your food stored properly, and Keep a clean campsite. You should be more concerned about heavy snowfall during hunting season that could possibly collapse your tent when you are not there.

[Stillhunter]

I have read that if you tie open the front and rear flap doorways when you leave then bears will not destroy a wall tent. They will eventually mosy along on their way. If they break-in and then feel trapped they will probably tear their way out? There was a camp on a remote pond that was not occupied when I walked by and it was left with the doors tied open. I believe it was for that reason?

[Buckladd]

I have read that if you tie open the front and rear flap doorways when you leave then bears will not destroy a wall tent. They will eventually mosy along on their way. If they break-in and then feel trapped they will probably tear their way out? There was a camp on a remote pond that was not occupied when I walked by and it was left with the doors tied open. I believe it was for that reason?

That's exactly what the Horn Hunters did back in their day.

[northernbill]

That’s a good idea I guess, only problem is I just have the front door. I’ll leave it open. I won’t be leaving any food there when we’re not using the camp, but I would probably want to leave the propane stove and cooking gear. More motivation to keep things clean.

[chaser]

We've never had a problem with bears at our tent. Biggest thing is keeping everything clean and always. No cleaning dishes later, clean them now. We've never left our flap open either. Mice are the biggest nuisance. Also agree with Tug Hill on snow accumulation, pay attention to your fly.

[FTHR&DAGHTR]

We have hunted out of wall tents that are used from muzzle season thru rifle and have never had any problem with bears. Racoons are a different story! They scattered things every where. Ruined an entire 30 pack of beer, ate the coffee which they got out of a secure(?) tote. You can't protect everything if the animals want in. They just don't destroy as bears are known to do. Take your chances and try to minimize any damage.

[northernbill]

I got it set up today and left some gear and a couple cots in it. Also started on the firewood stash. I’ll be back for the day early next week. I left the front flaps open. Hoping for the best.

[Mallard1100]

Nice setup! Many memories to be made this upcoming season. Good luck.

[Tug Hill]

Looks good, have a great hunting season.