It’s the middle of summer. It’s hot. Kids have no school. Adults want an affordable getaway. Northern Arizona provides a perfect remedy for the summer blues: Camping.

There are dozens of campsites around Northern Arizona that guarantee summer fun and a peaceful or adventurous outdoor experience, whichever one prefers. However, with the joys of camping comes a danger that every camper needs to be prepared for.

There have been three reported bear attacks in Northern Arizona campsites in May and June, two at the Ponderosa Campgrounds — 15 miles east of Payson — and one in the Thompson Draw II area — one mile from the Ponderosa Campgrounds].

The Arizona Game and Fish investigation shows that the victims had taken the proper precautions to secure their food and garbage.

The black bear, the only bear species in Arizona, is considered the least aggressive bear in North America.

For the full story, see the Friday, July 20, edition of the Sedona Red Rock News.