Hunt & Live

Q&A · Hunting

What should I know about food storage in a drop-camp?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

When setting up a drop camp for elk hunting, proper food storage is crucial to maintain a safe and healthy environment. Store food and scented items in airtight containers, and hang them at least 10 feet off the ground to prevent wildlife encounters. Consider using a bear-resistant container for added protection.

Choosing the Right Storage Method

When selecting a storage method for a drop camp, consider the terrain and accessibility of the area. A sturdy, portable storage unit or a cache can be used to store food and scented items. For example, a BearVault 500 or a similar bear-resistant container is a good option, as it can withstand the rigors of backcountry travel and protect against wildlife encounters.

Food Storage Hierarchy

Implement a food storage hierarchy to ensure that the most critical items are stored safely and separately from less essential items. This can include:

  • Hanging a cache of bear-resistant containers 10-15 feet off the ground using a sturdy rope or cable.
  • Placing less essential items, such as trash and scented items, in a separate storage unit or bag.
  • Keeping the campsite clean and free of food residue to avoid attracting wildlife.

Additional Considerations

When storing food in a drop camp, consider the following:

  • Use airtight containers to prevent spoilage and wildlife attraction.
  • Label and date all food containers for easy identification.
  • Keep a clean and tidy campsite to avoid attracting wildlife and maintain a safe environment.
  • Consider using a portable storage unit or cache to reduce the risk of wildlife encounters.
drop-camp-elk know food storage dropcamp
Share

Find more answers

Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.