Bear Hollow Zoo | Athens City

Bear Hollow Zoo, located in Athens, Georgia, is a unique and beloved wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the care, rehabilitation, and education of native animals that cannot survive in the wild. It serves as a permanent refuge for injured, orphaned, or otherwise non-releasable wildlife indigenous to Georgia, offering visitors an intimate, educational experience centered on local biodiversity and conservation efforts.

History and Purpose

Bear Hollow Zoo was established in the early 1980s and formally named the Bear Hollow Wildlife Trail in 1985. The zoo was created by Athens-Clarke County to provide a safe haven for wild animals that had been injured or orphaned and could not be released back into their natural habitats. Its founding mission focuses on wildlife rehabilitation, public education, and fostering community awareness about Georgia’s native species and ecosystems.

Unlike traditional zoos, Bear Hollow is not designed for exotic or foreign animals but instead highlights the region’s indigenous wildlife. All animals housed at Bear Hollow are permanent residents because of their inability to survive in the wild, thus serving as ambassadors for wildlife conservation.

Location and Environment

Bear Hollow Zoo is nestled within Memorial Park, a scenic 72-acre green space in Athens that features wooded trails, a lake, picnic facilities, playgrounds, and other recreational areas. The zoo occupies a natural, forested environment with paved walking paths, providing visitors a sense of immersion in nature. This setting helps mimic the animals’ native habitats as much as possible while offering accessible routes for all guests.

The address is 293 Gran Ellen Drive, Athens, GA 30606. The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and admission is free, making it an accessible destination for families, students, tourists, and local residents.

Animal Residents

The zoo is home to a variety of native Georgia wildlife species, all of which have been rescued or rehabilitated but cannot be returned to the wild. These animals act as educational ambassadors, helping visitors understand the diversity and ecological importance of local species. The resident animals include:

American Black Bears: Notably “DJ,” “Athena,” and “Yonah” — three black bears who live in spacious enclosures replicating their natural environment. These bears help educate visitors about wildlife safety and conservation.

American Alligator: “Mazie” is an alligator that provides insight into reptiles native to Georgia’s wetlands.

Great Horned Owls: Named “Eeyore” and “Winnie the Hoo,” these owls represent the state’s nocturnal bird population and play a role in educating about bird species and their habitats.

Bobcats and Red Foxes: Native wild carnivores that are crucial parts of the local ecosystem.

River Otters: Playful aquatic mammals that are indicators of healthy freshwater systems.

White-tailed Deer, Wild Turkeys, and various reptiles and amphibians: These species complete the representation of Georgia’s native fauna, helping visitors appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

All animals at Bear Hollow are well cared for by trained wildlife professionals and volunteers who provide daily husbandry, medical care, and enrichment to promote their physical and mental well-being.

Educational Role and Community Involvement

Bear Hollow Zoo serves as an important educational resource in the Athens community. It offers self-guided tours with informational signage about the animals, their natural behaviors, habitats, and conservation challenges. The zoo collaborates closely with local schools, universities—especially the University of Georgia—and wildlife organizations to promote awareness and hands-on learning opportunities.

Special events and programs are held throughout the year, including nature walks, seasonal festivals like “Bear Holloween” for families, and art initiatives that showcase native wildlife and conservation themes. The zoo has also integrated public art such as murals to enhance the visitor experience and emphasize environmental stewardship.

Conservation and Support Programs

Bear Hollow Zoo is supported through public funding, donations, and community programs such as the “Adopt-an-Animal” initiative. This program invites individuals and organizations to sponsor specific animals, helping cover costs for food, veterinary care, and enrichment activities. Sponsorship levels come with perks such as certificates, updates, and themed artwork, encouraging continued public involvement in wildlife conservation.

The zoo’s model as a sanctuary for non-releasable wildlife highlights the importance of coexistence between humans and nature, providing a platform to teach respect for wildlife and responsible environmental practices.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors to Bear Hollow Zoo enjoy:

Free Admission: Encouraging access for all community members and tourists.

Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair-friendly with paved paths and accommodations for visitors with disabilities.

Family-Friendly Environment: Picnic areas and playgrounds nearby make it a full-day outing destination.

Educational Signage: Informative displays offer detailed descriptions of each species’ natural history, behavior, and conservation status.

Animal Enclosures: Designed to mimic natural habitats with ample space for animals’ physical and psychological well-being.

The zoo does not allow pets but welcomes service animals to ensure safety and comfort for all visitors.

Summary

Bear Hollow Zoo in Athens, Georgia, stands out as a vital community asset focused on the protection and education of native wildlife. Through its mission to provide sanctuary to injured and non-releasable animals, it fosters greater public understanding of the region’s natural heritage and promotes conservation efforts. The zoo’s combination of naturalistic habitats, diverse native species, and educational programming makes it a meaningful and engaging destination for visitors seeking to connect with Georgia’s wildlife and environment in an authentic and responsible way.