Tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Tennessee, Ocoee Riverside Farm offers something you would never expect to find in the Volunteer State: the chance to hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle baby sloths, and meet exotic animals from around the world.
This family-owned farm has turned into one of the most unique animal encounter destinations in the region, drawing visitors who crave up-close experiences that go far beyond a typical petting zoo. Whether you are planning a birthday surprise, a romantic getaway, or just a weekend adventure, this farm delivers memories that stick with you long after you leave.
Welcome to Ocoee Riverside Farm: Tennessee’s Most Unexpected Animal Encounter
Most people do not expect to find kangaroos hopping around Tennessee, but Ocoee Riverside Farm flips that expectation on its head. Located near Benton along Reynolds Bridge Road, this working farm has grown into a destination where guests interact with animals they have only seen in documentaries or behind zoo glass.
Owners John and Donna have built something truly special here. Their passion for animal care shows in every corner of the property, from the clean enclosures to the knowledgeable staff who guide each encounter.
The farm offers scheduled encounters, meaning you are never fighting crowds or waiting in long lines. Each experience feels personal and intentional. Whether you stay overnight in one of their themed accommodations or visit for a day trip, the farm delivers an adventure that feels both intimate and unforgettable.
Yes, You Can Feed Kangaroos Here
Feeding a kangaroo is not something most Americans ever get to check off their bucket list, but at Ocoee Riverside Farm, it happens every single day.
The experience includes both adult kangaroos and joeys, the adorable baby kangaroos that steal every heart in sight. Some visitors even get the chance to bottle-feed the littlest ones, cradling them like newborns while they sip their formula.
Staff members make the experience educational too, sharing fun facts about kangaroo behavior, diet, and habitat. You leave knowing more than you came in with, and your camera roll will be bursting with photos you cannot wait to share.
Holding a Sloth? Here’s What That’s Really Like
If you have ever wondered what it feels like to hold a sloth, prepare yourself for one of the most surreal and calming experiences imaginable. The sloth encounters at Ocoee Riverside Farm let you spend up to 30 minutes cuddling with sloths like Dash, Flash, Zoey, or Chloe, each with their own gentle personality.
Sloths move so slowly and deliberately that time seems to pause. You can feel their surprisingly strong grip as they wrap their long arms around you, and their soft fur and calm demeanor create an instant bond.
More Than Just Kangaroos and Sloths
While kangaroos and sloths steal the spotlight, Ocoee Riverside Farm is home to an impressive roster of other exotic and domestic animals. Zebras, camels, llamas, alpacas, highland cows, fennec foxes, spider monkeys, and even a baby camel named Prince Ali roam the property, each available for different types of encounters.
Guests can sign up for fennec fox cuddles, spider monkey playtime, camel rides, and even horseback riding lessons for first-timers. The farm tour gives you access to feed and pet a variety of animals, and many visitors are shocked by how interactive the experience truly is.
Every animal is well-cared-for, healthy, and clearly comfortable around people, which makes the encounters feel safe and meaningful.
A Riverside Setting That Makes It Even More Magical
The name says it all: Ocoee Riverside Farm sits along the scenic Ocoee River, surrounded by the natural beauty of southeastern Tennessee. The setting adds a layer of magic to every visit, with rolling hills, open pastures, and the calming presence of water nearby.
Guests staying overnight often mention waking up to the sounds of donkeys braying and watching the sunrise over the farm. There is a pond on the property where visitors can sit and unwind, and fire pits are available for evening campfires under the stars. The peaceful atmosphere makes it easy to disconnect from daily stress and simply be present.
What to Know Before You Go
Planning a visit to Ocoee Riverside Farm requires a bit of preparation, but the process is straightforward. All encounters are by reservation only, which ensures a personalized experience without overcrowding. You can book directly through their website, and the staff sends detailed emails with guidelines, directions, and what to expect.
Pricing varies depending on which encounters you choose, but guests consistently say the value is excellent for what you receive. Some experiences, like the VIP sloth encounter, cost more but offer extended time and deeper interaction. Overnight stays in themed accommodations like the Welcome Wagon or Sloth Suite add another layer to the adventure and come with their own pricing tiers.
There are no strict age restrictions, though some encounters work better for older kids and adults. The farm is accessible for guests with limited mobility since tours involve minimal walking. Arrive on time, wear comfortable clothes, and bring a camera because you will want to capture every moment.
Why Ocoee Riverside Farm Belongs on Your Tennessee Bucket List
There are plenty of places to visit in Tennessee, but very few offer the kind of once-in-a-lifetime moments you will find at Ocoee Riverside Farm. This is not just a tourist attraction; it is a labor of love built by people who genuinely care about animals and the guests who come to meet them.
These are the kinds of memories that stay with you and become stories you tell for years.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday, planning a honeymoon, or just looking for a unique weekend getaway, this farm delivers something far beyond the ordinary. It earns its spot on your Tennessee bucket list not through hype, but through genuine heart and the unforgettable experiences it creates.