How to Get Rid of Raccoons at Your GTA Campsite

The Greater Toronto Area is home to many popular camping destinations—from provincial parks and conservation area to private RV spots. Of course, the lakes and woods that draw outdoor enthusiasts also attract raccoons and other wildlife.

Join us as we explore how to keep raccoons away from your campsite.

What Attracts Raccoons to Your Campsite?

In short: Food. Aside from the already favourable conditions of a wooded area and/or nearby water sources, the food that you bring to and store at your campsite (including garbage) is a big draw. Raccoons are intelligent and opportunistic little thieves and will happily pursue an easy meal over one that needs to be chased down. Their keen sense of smell as well as their uncanny ability to get into bins and containers turns your campsite into a buffet.

Why Are Raccoons a Campsite Problem?

While nighttime rummaging through your things may be an area of concern, the real issue with raccoons in your campsite is the health and safety risks they pose to your family and pets:

• Amid many bacterial diseases and parasites, rabies is the biggest concern. Close contact and even your pet's contaminated water can lead to catastrophic consequences. 
  
  
• Camping in the early part of summer may inadvertently put you near a raccoon den and bring you (or your dog) face to face with a protective mother that is willing to go to battle to protect her litter. Likewise, a cornered raccoon (in a tent, perhaps) will defend itself with aggression.
  
  

What Problems Do Raccoons Cause at Campsites?

• Damage to tents, RV wiring, or gear;
  
  
• Scattering garbage and creating mess;
  
  
• Aggressive behavior if cornered or feeding young;
  
  
• Contamination risks (droppings and/or urine);
  
  
• Potential for rabies, bacterial infections, or parasites;
  
  

What Are the Signs of Raccoon Activity at Campsites?

• Noises at night (scratching, thumping, rustling, or chatter);
  
  
• Tipped-over trash bins or food containers;
  
  
• Paw prints around the site;
  
  
• Dens or raccoons sheltering under decks, trailers, or sheds.
  
  

How Much Does It Cost to Remove Raccoons from a Campsite?

It entirely depends on the number of traps needed and the number of technician visits. We explain this in more detail here: https://www.hawkeye.ca/raccoons-everything-you-ever-wanted-to-know

Raccoon Prevention Tips for Private Campsites or RV Owners

Before choosing your campsite, it's a good idea to check for existing raccoon or other wildlife dens on the premises. Raccoons often return to existing dens or repurpose other animals' dens.

Securing the Campsite:

• For RV Owners
  Secure all outdoor compartments;
  
  
• For Tent Campers
  Use sturdy, sealed coolers and containers, preferably even further secure those containers with bungee cords to prevent nimble little raccoon paws from getting to your food.
  
  

Food Storage:

• Sealed and hard-sided containers are a must;
  
  
• If possible, store food or trash in the trunk of your locked car;
  
  
• Don't leave food (including pet food) in tents or outside on picnic tables.
  
  

Garbage Management:

• A campsite's garbage is a raccoon's treasure; 
  
  
• If possible, make use of campground-provided sealed, and animal-proof bins;
  
  
• If no such bins are available, double bag your garbage and store it securely in your vehicle or a locked container;
  
  
• Failure to properly secure garbage may result in even larger wildlife such as bears making an appearance.
  
  

Disposal of Scented Items:

• Raccoons may be attracted to scents other than just food;
• Toiletries, scented candles, and used cooking gear should also be stored securely;
  
  
• Due to their playful, curious and adventurous nature, raccoons may be interested in exploring shiny objects as well.
  
  

Tips for Protecting Children from Raccoons at Campsites

Teach Them the "Leave No Trace" Rule:

• Children, especially, need to understand not to leave food scraps or half-eaten snacks on the ground or in unsealed containers;
• Making signs with the kids to remind everyone can be a fun activity while camping.
  
  

Supervise Snack Time:

• Ensure all snacks are consumed in a designated area (like the picnic table) and that all wrappers and crumbs are immediately and properly disposed of in a sealed bin;
• This prevents children from accidentally dropping food near the tent where raccoons might come looking later.
  
  

The "Don't Touch" Rule:

• Teach children to never approach, feed, or touch any wild animal, including raccoons, no matter how cute they may seem from a distance;
• Explain that wild animals can be unpredictable and may bite or scratch if they feel threatened.
  
  

Keep the Tent Zipped:

• Tent zippers should be closed at all times, even during the day, to prevent any small animal from wandering inside;
• This also helps prevent other bugs and pests from getting in.
  
  

Nighttime Safety:

• Do a final check of the campsite for any forgotten food items or open coolers before putting children to bed;
• Keep a flashlight handy and teach older children how to use it to safely navigate the campsite at night.
  
  

Tips for Protecting Pets from Raccoons at Campsites

Never Leave Pets Unattended:

• Do not leave your pet's food out unattended;
• Don't tie your dog and leave it unattended. A tethered dog or cat can be a target for a raccoon, which may be emboldened by their inability to escape;
• Raccoons can also cause a fight with a pet, which can lead to injuries for both animals.
  
  

Leash and Crate/Kennel Protocols:

• Always keep dogs on a leash, as per most park regulations. This is the single best way to prevent them from chasing or getting into a conflict with a wild animal;
• For smaller pets or cats, you may want to consider a secure, travel-safe crate or enclosure. Never leave them loose in the tent or outside at night.
  
  

Secure Pet Food and Water Bowls:

• Pet food is a huge attractant for raccoons;
• Feed pets at specific mealtimes and immediately pick up and store the food and water bowls in a sealed container or inside the car. Do not leave them out overnight.
  
  

Clean Up Pet Waste:

• Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste, as the scent can also attract curious wildlife;
• Also check out https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-control-tips-to-protect-pets.
  
  

Why DIY Raccoon Removal Isn’t Recommended

• Raccoons can be aggressive when cornered or protecting their young;
  
  
• Risk of disease or injury to both you and the raccoon;
  
  
• Relocation within 1 km of your campsite will likely fail and allow the raccoon(s) to swiftly return;
  
  
• Professionals ensure safe, effective, and legal removal.
  
  

Popular GTA Campsites Affected by Raccoon Problems

Some of the more popular camp regions with raccoon issues include: Craigleith Provincial Park, Presqu'ile Provincial Park, Awenda Provincial Park, Arrowhead Provincial Park, Algonquin Provincial Park and Ferris Provincial Park. Additionally, Lake Simcoe, Lake Huron, and the Georgian Bay draw both campers and wildlife in large numbers.

What to Do During an Encounter

• Stay Calm: Instruct members of your party to remain calm and avoid panicking;
• Make Noise: Clap your hands, stomp your feet, or shine a flashlight in the raccoon's eyes to scare it away;
• Never Feed Them: Never feed raccoons, as it encourages them to become bolder and more aggressive;
• Do Not Engage: Emphasize the importance of not touching, cornering, or trying to catch the animal.
  
  

What to Do If Raccoons Keep Returning

• Contact Campground Management: Report persistent or aggressive raccoons to the campground staff or park rangers. They often have specific protocols to get rid of raccoons from a campsite.
• Get Professional Help: For persistent issues, suggest contacting a professional wildlife removal service that specializes in humane methods, including permanent raccoon removal.
• Call Hawkeye's 24/7 Emergency Line for immediate help.
  
  

Protect Your GTA Campsite with Hawkeye

Raccoons in GTA campsites are a common nuisance but can be managed with prevention and expert help. Responsible camping practices and a healthy respect for our wildlife can go a long way. For persistent raccoon problems at your campsite in the Greater Toronto Area contact Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control. We are licensed, insured, and have a 35+ year record of excellence in raccoon removal in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and Oakville. Humane and compassionate removal of raccoons  and other wildlife from RV campsites in the GTA is what we do.