The American black bear is the most common bear species in North America.

Adult black bears typically weigh 150–400 pounds, though some males can grow larger.

Despite their name, black bears can appear black, brown, cinnamon, or even blond.

Black bears are excellent climbers and can climb trees to escape danger or search for food.

They have an incredible sense of smell - seven times stronger than a bloodhound’s.

Black bears are omnivores, eating berries, nuts, insects, plants, and fish

During winter, black bears enter a state similar to hibernation, where their heart rate and metabolism slow dramatically.

Bleack Bear roaming on the Black Bear Plantation Old Fort, Photo taken by a visiting camper

2025

About Black Bears at Black Bear Plantation

Black Bear Plantation is located in Old Fort, Tennessee

The surrounding forests and mountain habitat provide excellent territory for black bears and other wildlife.

Black bears play an important role in the ecosystem by spreading seeds and helping maintain healthy forests.

While bears are naturally shy and tend to avoid people, they are an important part of the Appalachian wildlife landscape.

Guests visiting the plantation may occasionally see tracks, signs, or even a bear in the distance while exploring the property.

One of the joys of being here is experiencing the wild beauty of the mountains that black bears call home.

Wingspan ranges from 6 to 8 feet, making it one of North America's largest birds of prey.
Bald eagles primarily feed on fish, but will also hunt small mammals and waterfowl.
Their distinctive white head and tail appear when they reach maturity around 4–5 years old.
Bald eagles can fly at speeds of 30–35 mph and dive much faster when hunting.
Once endangered in the United States, conservation efforts have led to a remarkable population recovery.
Bald eagles are often found near large bodies of water and forested habitats, making the Tennessee mountains an ideal environment.

Bald Eagle soaring over Black Bear Plantation Old Fort, Tennessee — March 13, 2026

Black Bear Plantation is located in Old Fort, Tennessee. (SE Tennessee, bordering Georgia)
The property is designated as a Certified Wildlife Habitat.
The plantation supports a wide range of native species including eagles, deer, and black bear.
This ecosystem creates an ideal environment for birds of prey and migratory wildlife.
Guests visiting the plantation often enjoy unexpected wildlife sightings while exploring the property.
One of the joys of being here is simply looking up at the sky and seeing what nature has in store.