Oswald’s Bear Ranch is a family-owned destination built from a lifelong love of black bears. What started with one bear as a pet quickly grew into something much bigger. Dean and Jewell Oswald discovered just how intelligent, playful, and fascinating black bears truly are, and they wanted to create a place where others could experience that same appreciation.

With years of hard work and dedication, Dean and Jewell founded Oswald’s Bear Ranch in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, creating a unique place where visitors could see black bears up close in spacious, natural habitats. Over the years, the ranch has welcomed generations of families, becoming a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Upper Peninsula.

Today, the Oswald family tradition continues with their grandson, Dustin, who manages the ranch’s gift shop. The gift shop has become a favorite stop for visitors, offering bear-themed souvenirs, apparel, locally inspired gifts, collectibles, toys, snacks, and keepsakes to help guests remember their visit to the ranch.

As the next generation looks toward the future, Dustin is working to expand the gift shop beyond the ranch by offering online shopping. The goal is to make it easy for visitors—and anyone who loves bears—to enjoy their favorite Oswald’s Bear Ranch merchandise year-round, no matter where they live.

Although the ranch has grown over the years, its heart has never changed. It remains a family-run business built on Dean and Jewell’s passion for black bears, welcoming visitors from across the country to share in an experience unlike any other.

Whether you’re visiting us in the Upper Peninsula or shopping with us online, we’re honored to have you as part of the Oswald’s Bear Ranch family. Thank you for supporting our family business, and we hope to see you again soon.