○ The bears are mostly active in the summer months - from June to September - but the best time to see them at the falls catching salmon in their teeth and fighting over the prime hunting spots is early on (June-July) when the bears are still quite thin and aching to get something substantial in their bellies.
○ Reservations are required for the campgrounds and cabins.The cabins tend to be rented out a year in advance using a lottery. The campground reservations open in early January and offer a 60 person capacity. These are very competitive. We woke up early the day reservations opened and refreshed the web page until it opened up.
○ Getting there can be expensive because it is out of the way. You will need to reserve with small airlines or water taxis to get to the camp, and they will have different restrictions on what you can carry. We flew into King Salmon via Anchorage from Seattle.
○ Resupplying there is tough. Options are limited and expensive, so bring what you need. This is particularly important if you're camping. We carried freeze dried food for all our meals since cooking over a campfire was not allowed due to weather conditions.
○ Be prepared for inclement weather with lots of spare clothes and layers, and bring rain gear even if the forecast is clear. Having a spare pair of dry socks can really make your day.
○ Camping here is not for the faint of heart - the campground has a fence as a "deterrent" to bears, there are minimal facilities, and it is a short hike from the lodge. Prior camping experience is highly recommended.
○ Rules are strict for visitors' and the bears' protection. Be ready for extensive bear training upon arrival.
○ Brooks Camp is a popular place, so be ready for crowds, particularly during the day while day-trippers are around. If you're staying in the park, try to reach the platforms early on or late in the day to avoid the rush.
○ You can also enjoy the views of the camp from the comfort of your home using the webcams. Volunteers aim these at bears as best they can.
