- Attraction: Bear Hollow Zoo
- Location: 293 Gran Ellen Dr, Athens, GA 30606
- Industry: Zoo
- Website: https://www.accgov.com/bearhollow
Step into Georgia’s wild side without leaving the city limits. Bear Hollow Zoo was established in 2004 as part of Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services, creating a haven for native wildlife that serves as living ambassadors for their species.
The zoo houses more than 35 native non-releasable animals in natural habitat exhibits, providing visitors with an intimate look at creatures they might never otherwise encounter up close.
What makes this experience truly special is witnessing wildlife rehabilitation in action. These animals have encountered challenges they could not overcome, either physical or behavioral, and have been placed here to live out their lives serving as ambassadors for their species.
Every visit becomes an educational journey through Georgia’s diverse ecosystem, all while supporting conservation efforts.
Wildlife Encounters You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
The Black Bear Trio: You’ll discover the zoo’s most famous residents in spacious woodland enclosures that feel like stepping into their natural habitat. D.J. can usually be found relaxing on a raised platform under shady trees, while his companions Athena and Yonah each have their own personalities that shine through during feeding times and play sessions.
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Keep Exploring →Birds of Prey Excellence: The raptor exhibits showcase some of Georgia’s most majestic hunters, including bald eagles whose piercing gazes and impressive wingspans never fail to captivate visitors. Great horned owls demonstrate their silent flight abilities during educational presentations, while various hawk species show off their incredible hunting instincts.
Reptile House Adventures: The climate-controlled reptile building houses an impressive collection of native snakes, lizards, and the crowd-favorite American alligator named Mazie. On special program days, the reptile room is open and visitors may have the opportunity to touch one of the lizards under strict supervision.
River Otter Playtime: Watch these playful aquatic acrobats dive, swim, and tumble through their water-filled habitat. Their underwater viewing windows provide front-row seats to their graceful swimming techniques and social interactions that will keep you entertained for hours.
White-Tailed Deer & More: The deer enclosures allow for peaceful observation of these gentle creatures, while bobcats, skunks, and various small mammals round out the diverse collection of Georgian wildlife.
Natural Forest Setting & Peaceful Atmosphere
Shaded Walking Trails: The number and size of the trees make a wonderfully-shaded spot on even warm summer days, creating a cool, comfortable environment for exploring regardless of the weather. The winding pathways through Memorial Park’s hardwood forest feel more like nature hiking than traditional zoo visiting.
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Discover MoreIntimate Scale: The compact size works to your advantage, allowing you to see everything without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. You’ll spend quality time at each exhibit rather than racing through endless crowds, making it perfect for young children who might find larger zoos intimidating.
Educational Signage: Well-placed interpretive displays throughout the zoo provide fascinating details about each species’ role in Georgia’s ecosystem, their rehabilitation stories, and conservation challenges they face in the wild.
Practical Considerations
Unbeatable Value: Admission to all areas and attractions is free, making this one of Athens’ best family entertainment bargains. Easy parking and it’s free as well, removing any financial barriers to experiencing Georgia’s wildlife up close.
Perfect Visit Duration: Plan for one to two hours to see everything comfortably. The manageable size means you won’t experience zoo fatigue, and you can easily combine your visit with other Memorial Park activities like playground time or walking the nearby trails.
Family-Friendly Design: The facility is ADA accessible and offers children’s programs, birthday parties, and holiday events. The peaceful setting provides an ideal environment for teaching children about wildlife conservation and Georgia’s natural heritage.
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Keep Exploring →Best Times to Visit: Bear Hollow Zoo is open from 9AM – 5PM daily, with animals most active during cooler morning and late afternoon hours. Special events like “Boo at the Zoo” and “Deck the Hollow” offer unique seasonal experiences, though regular visiting days provide a more tranquil experience.
Memorial Park Perks: Your zoo visit seamlessly connects with Memorial Park’s other attractions, including the famous Birchmore Trail, fishing pond, dog park, and multiple playgrounds, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring this hidden gem in Athens’ Five Points neighborhood.
Bear Hollow Zoo
📍 293 Gran Ellen Dr, Athens, GA 30606
