Bearproof, ADA-Compliant Metal Food Storage Lockers For Parks and Campsites

Food storage lockers keep food secure from wildlife and deter bears.

Bear‑resistant metal food storage lockers typically used in campsites and parks are sturdy, heavy‑gauge enclosures are designed to keep food secure from curious wildlife and are often installed in campground common areas or at individual tent sites. ADA-compliant bearproof lockers make campsites safer, more inclusive, and regulation-ready while improving visitor experience and reducing wildlife conflicts.

Here are some things to consider when buying a food storage locker:

IGBC & Regulatory Compliance for food storage lockers

• IGBC certification  ensures lockers meet rigorous testing for bear and wildlife resistance, making them compliant with many federal land management requirements.
• Federal agencies like the National Park Service and US Forest Service often require or recommend IGBC-certified or equivalent bear-resistant lockers for campground and front country food storage  

Features and benefits of using ADA-compliant, bear-resistant storage lockers

1. Accessibility for All Campers

• Inclusive design means people with mobility challenges (wheelchair users, limited reach, etc.) can safely store food without assistance.
• Features like  forward reach height, side clearance, and easy-to-operate latches  give everyone the same ability to use the lockers.
• Promotes  equal access  and avoids creating barriers for certain visitors.

2. Compliance with Regulations

• Meets the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reducing liability risks for park managers.
• Helps public land agencies (NPS, USFS, state/local parks) align with  federal accessibility standards  in recreation facilities.
• Can improve eligibility for funding and grants, since many require ADA compliance.

3. Improved Safety

• When ADA lockers are provided, all visitors can properly store food, which means fewer “work-arounds” (like leaving food in cars, tents, or open coolers).
• This reduces the risk of dangerous human–bear interactions, making campsites safer overall.

4. Durability & Ease of Use

• Most ADA-compliant lockers are also bear-resistant and IGBC-certified, so they combine accessibility with wildlife security.
• One-handed latching mechanisms and counterbalanced doors make them easier for children, older adults, or anyone carrying items.

5. Enhanced Visitor Experience

• Creates a more welcoming and inclusive campground environment.
• Families, groups, and individuals with varying abilities can all use the same food storage system, which fosters a sense of fairness.
• Reduces complaints and increases visitor satisfaction scores for park operators.

6. Long-Term Value

• Standardizing on ADA-compliant enclosures future-proofs  a campground as accessibility requirements tighten.
• Minimizes the need for retrofits or replacements later.
• Improves the park’s reputation as inclusive and forward-thinking, which can boost visitation.

Here are the best bear-resistant food storage lockers:

• Bearicuda Whistler - Large Food Storage Locker – LOC103ADA: Spacious 30 cu ft, ADA compliant, heavy-duty construction—perfect for high-usage or large groups.
• Bearicuda Whistler - Mid-Size Food Storage Locker, ADA Compliant – LOC102ADA: Ideal 24 cu ft unit with ADA legs and easy one-door access.
• Bearicuda Whistler - Large Double Food Storage Locker – LOC138: Two separate 18 cu ft compartments—great for shared campground spaces.