ELKTON, VA (Rocktown Now) – Shenandoah National Parks is temporarily closing a campground area due to threatening wildlife interactions.

According to a statement posted online, the outer loop of Loft Mountain Campground has been temporarily closed to reduce the risk of dangerous encounters and to minimize the likelihood of wildlife gaining access to human food sources.

Sites A51 to A78 are closed until further notice, as well as “Tents Only Sites” 1 to 44.

The post also reminds campers that National Parks provide food storage lockers at most campsites, and day-hikers or picnickers should pack out all food and trash used along the way.