🚐 Welcome First-Time RVers: Your Home Away From Home at Black Bear Plantation

blackbearplantation
Jul 13
3 min read

Plus: What You Need to Know About Your Black Tank (Yes, That One)

So you’ve just bought your RV or booked your first camping trip — congratulations! At Black Bear Plantation in Old Fort, Tennessee, we’re proud to welcome a growing number of first-time RVers every season, many of whom are enjoying the RV lifestyle in retirement or as part of a slower, scenic chapter of life.

Whether you're here for the peace, the wildlife, or the community of nature lovers 55+, this post will help you feel more confident and comfortable — especially with one of the most talked-about parts of RV camping: the black tank.

🏕️ A Warm Welcome to Our First-Time Guests

We understand that starting out with an RV can feel overwhelming — but you’re in good hands here. At Black Bear Plantation, you’ll find:

Spacious, easy-access RV sites with full hookups
Quiet, wooded surroundings ideal for relaxation
A friendly, adult-only atmosphere perfect for slower-paced camping
On-site help and support — we’re happy to answer questions, big or small

“Everyone here was so helpful and patient when we were figuring things out. It made all the difference.” – First-time guest, 2024

🚽 Let’s Talk Black Tanks (Don't Worry, It’s Not That Bad)

If you’re brand-new to RVing, the black tank is your RV’s holding tank for waste from the toilet. It sounds intimidating, but with just a few steps, you’ll be managing it like a pro.

Here’s what every new RVer needs to know:

🧰 What Is a Black Tank?

Your RV has two types of waste tanks:

Grey Tank: collects water from sinks and showers
Black Tank: holds waste from the toilet

🛠️ How to Use Your Black Tank Properly (Step-by-Step)

1. Always Use RV-Safe Toilet PaperRegular toilet paper can clog your system. Look for brands marked “septic safe” or “RV-safe.”

2. Use Plenty of Water with Each FlushMore water helps waste break down and prevents clogs. Hold the flush lever for a few extra seconds each time.

3. Add Tank Treatment After Each DumpUse enzyme-based tank treatments to control odor and help break down solids.

4. Keep the Black Tank Valve Closed Until It’s Time to DumpLeaving it open can lead to a “poop pyramid” (yes, it’s real). Wait until the tank is about 2/3 full before dumping.

5. Always Dump the Black Tank First, Then the Grey TankThis allows the soapy water from the grey tank to help rinse out the hose.

6. Use Gloves, a Hose, and a Clear Elbow FittingIt helps you see when things run clear — and yes, it’s okay to look.

📍 Bonus Tip: Black Tank Etiquette at Campgrounds

At Black Bear Plantation, we provide clean, easy-to-access sewer hookups at each RV site. Please:

Use your own sewer hose and fittings
Keep the area tidy for the next guest
Let us know if you need help — our team is happy to walk you through it!

🛏️ After That? Kick Back and Relax.

Once your tank is handled, you’re free to enjoy everything Black Bear Plantation has to offer:

🌳 Certified Wildlife Habitat full of deer, birds, and seasonal beauty
🔥 Campfire-ready sites for morning coffee or evening chats
🚶‍♀️ Quiet walking areas to stretch your legs or photograph nature
👋 Welcoming community of fellow RVers and seasonal campers

🌟 You Belong Here — Even If You’re Still Learning

Every experienced RVer started somewhere — and most of them remember their first campground fondly. We’re proud to be that place for many of our guests. If you’re ever unsure about black tanks, leveling, hookups, or just what to do next — ask! We’ve all been there.