Bear sightings force campground to close

ANDERSON, S.C. (AP) -- U.S. Forest Service officials closed the Long Bottom Ford Campground in Oconee County after a black bear ripped open a camper's tent in search of food.

The Anderson Independent-Mail cites a statement from the forest service which says a mother bear and three cubs also were seen at the campground, which was closed on Thursday.

Forest service spokeswoman Michelle Burnett says no one was injured at the campground.

All campers have been asked to leave as soon as possible. The statement from the forest service says the campground will remain closed for at least a week while personnel monitors the site.

Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist Skip Still says once food sources are removed from the campground, the bear and her cubs likely will leave.