North Carolina wildlife
American black bear
Ursus americanus
Black bears forage heavily in berry patches during autumn to prepare for winter.
See the American black bear up close
Best months
Aug · Sep · Oct
Visit berry-producing balds along the Blue Ridge Parkway in late summer to early fall; check parkway conditions and bear activity reports.
Where to look
Blue Ridge Parkway balds (e.g., Graveyard Fields)Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina side)Pisgah National Forest (Linville Gorge area)
Conservation status
Widespread and stable in North Carolina's mountain forests
Good to know
Are black bears dangerous?
Black bears are generally shy and avoid humans, but never approach or feed them; keep a safe distance and store food properly.
What should I do if I see a bear?
Remain calm, do not run, make yourself look large, and slowly back away while speaking firmly.
Make it a trip
Rent an RV in North Carolina
The rigs here are owned by local hosts. Browse what fits your route, or reach North Carolina owners directly.
Browse North Carolina rigsWhat fits this trip
