14 Small Zoo and Animal Sanctuaries in the U.S. With Close Up Encounters
If you are someone who loves animals and wants to experience them up close, visiting a small zoo or animal sanctuary might be the perfect way to spend your day. These places offer a unique opportunity to observe and interact with wildlife in a more personal and relaxed setting. Unlike larger zoos, small sanctuaries often focus on rescuing and providing care for animals in need, giving visitors a chance to learn about conservation while getting to know the animals. Whether you are meeting exotic cats, curious birds, or playful farm animals, the connections made at these places are often memorable and meaningful.
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Wild Animal Sanctuary – Keenesburg, Colorado
The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg offers visitors the opportunity to get close to a variety of large animals. Founded in 1980, the sanctuary focuses on rescuing animals from captive environments, particularly those used in entertainment or illegal trade. The sanctuary spans over 9,000 acres and houses over 450 rescued animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and wolves. Guests can walk along elevated viewing platforms that offer stunning close-up views of the animals in their natural habitats.
The sanctuary provides a unique chance to witness these majestic creatures up close without the usual cages found in traditional zoos. Educational programs are available, teaching visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation. The sanctuary’s mission is to provide a safe haven for rescued animals while educating the public about the needs of these incredible creatures.
The Center for Animal Research and Education – Bridgeport, Texas
The Center for Animal Research and Education, located in Bridgeport, Texas, is home to numerous exotic animals, including big cats and primates. This sanctuary focuses on providing lifetime care for animals that were rescued from private ownership and abusive environments. Visitors can participate in interactive tours where they learn about the animals’ backgrounds, natural behaviors, and the importance of conservation.
The center’s smaller size allows for more intimate encounters with the animals. Guests have the opportunity to see tigers, lions, leopards, and chimpanzees up close, with the knowledgeable staff sharing insights about their care and rehabilitation. The center also offers hands-on experiences such as animal feedings, providing a rare opportunity to engage with the animals in a meaningful way. The center is committed to providing high-quality care while raising awareness about the dangers of exotic animal trade.
The Exotic Feline Rescue Center – Centerpoint, Indiana
The Exotic Feline Rescue Center in Centerpoint, Indiana, is a sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of large cats. This nonprofit organization provides a safe haven for over 100 cats, including tigers, leopards, cougars, and lions. Visitors can explore the sanctuary during guided tours, where they can observe the cats in their natural, expansive habitats. The rescue center’s mission is to educate the public about the plight of exotic cats in captivity and the importance of wildlife conservation.
The sanctuary offers close-up encounters with the cats, allowing visitors to witness the majesty of these creatures while learning about their behaviors and conservation needs. The center is deeply committed to the animals’ well-being and offers a safe environment where they can thrive after being rescued from private owners and unethical zoos. The Exotic Feline Rescue Center serves as an important educational resource and animal protection organization.
Lion’s Gate Sanctuary – Byers, Colorado
Located in Byers, Colorado, Lion’s Gate Sanctuary is a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating exotic cats. The sanctuary houses a variety of big cats, including lions, tigers, and bobcats, many of which have been rescued from mistreatment and neglect. The sanctuary offers guided tours where visitors can interact with the animals in a safe and educational manner. This intimate sanctuary allows guests to observe the animals up close, fostering a deeper understanding of their behavior and natural instincts.
Lion’s Gate Sanctuary also focuses on educating the public about the dangers of private ownership of exotic animals and works toward ending the illegal exotic pet trade. By visiting, guests support the sanctuary’s mission of providing a safe and nurturing environment for its animal residents. With its focus on rescue, rehabilitation, and education, Lion’s Gate Sanctuary is a place where visitors can connect with wildlife in a meaningful way.
Aloha Animal Sanctuary – Pahoa, Hawaii
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Hawaii, Aloha Animal Sanctuary provides a safe home for rescued farm animals and wildlife. This small sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals from abuse and neglect, offering them a second chance at life. Visitors can participate in animal encounters where they can meet goats, pigs, and chickens up close, learning about their personalities and individual stories. The sanctuary also works to raise awareness about animal rights and the importance of compassionate farming practices.
Aloha Animal Sanctuary provides hands-on experiences for guests to connect with the animals while supporting the sanctuary’s mission of promoting kindness to all creatures. The sanctuary focuses on creating a peaceful, non-exploitative environment for all the animals under its care. With its educational outreach and personal animal encounters, Aloha Animal Sanctuary provides a unique and compassionate experience for animal lovers.
Big Cat Rescue – Tampa, Florida
Big Cat Rescue, located in Tampa, Florida, is a sanctuary that offers rescue and care for exotic cats, including tigers, lions, cougars, and bobcats. The sanctuary focuses on rescuing big cats from the illegal pet trade and providing them with a permanent, safe home. Visitors to Big Cat Rescue can enjoy guided tours where they can learn about the rescued cats and their journeys to safety. The tours also provide an opportunity for guests to observe the animals up close, with the sanctuary’s large enclosures offering a natural setting for the cats to thrive.
The sanctuary offers several programs that educate the public on the dangers of the exotic pet trade and the importance of wildlife conservation. Guests can also participate in feeding sessions and animal enrichment activities to gain a deeper understanding of the cats’ daily lives. Big Cat Rescue works tirelessly to end the exploitation of big cats through education and advocacy, making it a valuable resource for animal conservation.
Shambala Preserve – Acton, California
Shambala Preserve, located in Acton, California, is a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and care of exotic animals. The preserve is home to a variety of big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards, many of which were rescued from abusive situations. Visitors to Shambala can experience close-up encounters with the animals, learning about their rescue stories and natural behaviors.
The sanctuary’s mission is to provide these animals with a peaceful and safe environment where they can live out the rest of their lives without fear of exploitation. Shambala also offers educational tours and events that help raise awareness about the challenges faced by captive wildlife. The preserve’s intimate size allows for a more personal and impactful experience for visitors. By supporting Shambala, guests contribute to the sanctuary’s efforts to end the abuse and mistreatment of exotic animals.
The Wildcat Sanctuary – Sandstone, Minnesota
The Wildcat Sanctuary in Sandstone, Minnesota, is dedicated to providing a safe and loving home for rescued big cats. The sanctuary is home to over 100 wildcats, including tigers, lions, and bobcats, many of which were rescued from private owners and dangerous environments. Visitors to The Wildcat Sanctuary can enjoy guided tours where they can see the animals in their expansive, natural habitats.
The sanctuary’s commitment to animal welfare is evident in its emphasis on providing enrichment and a peaceful life for all its residents. Guests have the chance to witness the cats up close and learn about their personalities, behaviors, and the challenges they face in captivity. The sanctuary also works to educate the public on the importance of conservation efforts and the dangers of the exotic pet trade. The Wildcat Sanctuary is a crucial resource for animal protection, advocacy, and education.
Wolf Haven International – Tenino, Washington
Located in Tenino, Washington, Wolf Haven International is dedicated to the rescue and care of wolves and wolf-dogs. The sanctuary is home to over 50 wolves and wolf-dogs, many of which have been rescued from captive situations and released back into safe, natural environments. Visitors to Wolf Haven can participate in guided tours that offer close-up encounters with the wolves, giving guests a chance to learn about their natural behaviors and their conservation needs.
The sanctuary’s mission is to educate the public on the importance of preserving wild wolves and their habitats. Wolf Haven International also works to dispel misconceptions about wolves and advocates for their protection in the wild. By visiting, guests support the sanctuary’s rescue and rehabilitation efforts. With its focus on education and advocacy, Wolf Haven offers a unique and insightful experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
California Wolf Center – Julian, California
Located in Julian, California, the California Wolf Center is dedicated to the protection and conservation of wolves in the wild. The sanctuary houses several species of wolves, including the endangered Mexican gray wolf. Visitors can enjoy educational tours where they can get close-up views of the wolves in their expansive natural enclosures.
The California Wolf Center works closely with other wildlife organizations to support the recovery of wild wolf populations in the United States. The tours provide insight into the wolf’s role in the ecosystem, as well as the challenges they face in the wild. By visiting, guests contribute to the center’s efforts to protect and preserve wolf populations and their habitats. The center also offers an opportunity for guests to learn more about wolf behavior and the importance of maintaining biodiversity in the wild.
Animal Adventures – Bolton, Massachusetts
Animal Adventures in Bolton, Massachusetts, provides an up-close experience with a variety of animals from around the world. The sanctuary houses exotic animals such as lemurs, sloths, reptiles, and a wide array of birds. Visitors can enjoy interactive tours where they can feed, pet, and learn about the animals from knowledgeable staff.
Animal Adventures focuses on education, teaching guests about animal conservation and the importance of preserving wildlife habitats. The sanctuary offers a hands-on experience, allowing visitors to connect with animals in a safe and educational environment. Animal Adventures also provides birthday parties and educational events, making it a great destination for families and school groups. With its diverse array of animals and engaging programs, the sanctuary offers a memorable experience for guests of all ages.
Wildlife Safari – Winston, Oregon
Wildlife Safari, located in Winston, Oregon, offers a unique opportunity to get up close to a wide variety of animals from around the world. The sanctuary is home to over 600 animals, including African elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs, housed in large, natural habitats. Visitors can take a self-guided or guided safari tour, where they can observe the animals in their expansive enclosures.
The safari also offers animal encounters, including feeding sessions with giraffes and interacting with other species in a safe, controlled environment. The focus of Wildlife Safari is on education and conservation, with a strong emphasis on wildlife protection and habitat preservation. The sanctuary provides an opportunity to learn about endangered species and the importance of conservation efforts. Wildlife Safari is a wonderful destination for those interested in a close encounter with exotic animals while supporting wildlife preservation efforts.
Carolina Tiger Rescue – Pittsboro, North Carolina
Carolina Tiger Rescue, located in Pittsboro, North Carolina, is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to the rescue of big cats, including tigers, lions, and cougars. The sanctuary provides a safe, spacious environment for animals that have been rescued from private ownership, the entertainment industry, and abusive situations. Visitors can enjoy guided tours where they learn about the history of the animals and their journeys to safety.
The sanctuary emphasizes the importance of protecting big cats and ending the private ownership of exotic animals. Visitors can participate in feeding sessions and enrichment activities, where they can see the animals engage with their environment. Carolina Tiger Rescue also offers programs that educate the public on the dangers of the exotic pet trade and the conservation needs of big cats. The sanctuary’s mission is to promote ethical treatment for all wildlife and to inspire others to join in the fight for animal protection.
Jungle Bob’s Reptile World – St. James, New York
Jungle Bob’s Reptile World, located in St. James, New York, is dedicated to the education and preservation of reptiles and exotic animals. The sanctuary is home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and other exotic creatures. Visitors can participate in hands-on encounters with animals such as snakes, lizards, and tortoises. Jungle Bob’s Reptile World is known for its interactive educational programs, where guests can learn about the natural behaviors and conservation needs of these fascinating creatures.
The sanctuary provides an up-close look at reptiles that are often misunderstood, offering a unique opportunity for guests to see them in a safe and controlled environment. Jungle Bob’s Reptile World also promotes awareness about the importance of preserving habitats for reptile species. The sanctuary’s focus on education and conservation makes it an ideal place for visitors to connect with wildlife in an informative and enjoyable way.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.