Stories tell us that along time ago, Mkwa took care of the first Anishinaabe children, fed them and kept them warm. Another story tells us that each year during Mkwa Giizis or Bear Moon also known as February, bear cubs venture outside their cozy dens to play. If their play is brief, then winter will be long. If they stay out, then spring is fast approaching.

The bear is known as a healer and peacekeeper who taught our people about the medicines. Some of our people have bear names like Mkoons (Little Bear) or Mko-kwe (Bear Woman). Some of our people belong to the Mkwa Dodem (Bear Clan). Some people have bears as "spirit helpers."

Seeing a bears in a natural setting like out in a field or crossing the road somewhere is an exciting and memorable experience. However, this is not necessarily so in a campground or on someone’s deck. This is why we built garbage depots, purchased recycling bins and closed our dump. In doing so, we have given responsibility to our campers and visitors to help us keep bears safe. Bear is called The Rememberer because Bear always remembers where to find food.

Help us protect our bears and all other critters who share their world with us.

1. Store food in your vehicle at night.
2. Take your bagged garbage to the Garbage Depot every evening.
3. Do not scrap your leftover food into the fire pit or around your campsite
4. Wash out your recyclables before putting them into the bins.
5. Keep your campsite clean.
6. Day visitors please take your garbage and recyclables with you.

Our Park attendants will be around to encourage your continued assistance in keeping bears safe.