7 Missouri Counties Where You’re Most Likely to See a Bear

If seeing a black bear is on your bucket list, you won't have to travel far in Missouri before you're likely to get your wish. Based on the most recent data, there are 7 Missouri counties where that's more likely to happen than others.

I've only seen one bear in my life and it was a long distance away. As I remember it, it was a grizzly that was casually eating foliage. Missouri doesn't have any grizzlies (that we know of), but my birth state sure does have black bears and the Department of Conservation says their population is growing. Here are the counties that have seen the most recent activity.

Honorable mentions go to:

• Ripley County
• Butler County
• Dent County
• Texas County
• Camden County

What should you do if you encounter a black bear in Missouri?

Whatever you do, DO NOT RUN. Bears are shy creatures that avoid contact with humans, but if you run, you then kick in their instincts to chase prey. The key is to stay calm and allow the bear an escape route. Most bears will flee away from humans, but if they feel cornered, that could trigger a defensive attack. While it's extremely unlikely, if a black bear attacks you, do not play dead. Fight back aggressively. Use any object available to strike the bear in the face and muzzle area.

I cannot remember the last time a bear attacked anyone in Missouri. While they are by definition apex predators, they're rarely aggressive and mainly herbivores. The problems begin when humans approach bears and seek them out. Don't do that and you'll be fine. The best way to see a black bear in Missouri is from a safe distance for your sake and the bears, too.