How do I book the Coffee with the Curator tour?

You must email laurie@turpentinecreek.org at least 72 hours in advance to schedule your tour.

What is the maximum group size?

Up to five guests per tour to maintain an intimate and informative experience.

Are children allowed on the tour?

The tour’s age restrictions aren’t specified, so contact the refuge directly for guidance.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, photography is allowed but please follow curator instructions to avoid disturbing animals.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?

Some walking is involved on uneven ground; contact the refuge to discuss any specific accessibility needs.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?

Tours may be canceled due to extreme weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds available.

Behind-the-Scenes Big Cat Tour at Turpentine Creek | Guided Tour | Attraction

Set in the rolling hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers one of the region’s most intimate wildlife experiences with its "Coffee with the Curator" tour. This isn't your typical stroll through a sanctuary—it's a carefully curated, behind-the-scenes journey into the lives of big cats rescued from the exotic pet trade. Guests meet the curator or assistant curator over morning coffee and light breakfast, setting the stage for a deep dive into the history and challenges of protecting these majestic animals.

The refuge spans a diverse landscape of wooded acres and open fields designed for animal comfort and rehabilitation. What truly sets this tour apart is access to spaces usually off-limits to the public—Rescue Ridge, the veterinary hospital equipped for complex care, animal diet commissary, and the newly expanded Freedom Field. Traveling by SUV or transit van, visitors gain an up-close perspective on the extensive care and conservation work conducted daily.

Turpentine Creek stands out in the region not only for its commitment to big cat rescue but also for fostering education about the exotic pet trade and captive wildlife ethics. Founded to provide lifelong refuge for lions, tigers, cougars, and other big cats, the sanctuary also anchors itself in the local outdoor and wildlife community, enriching visitor understanding of animal welfare.

For outdoor enthusiasts and animal lovers alike, this three-hour, small-group experience offers a rare glimpse into the sanctuary’s core operations and animal lives beyond the public eye. It balances informative presentation with on-the-ground insight, making it both an educational and immersive wildlife adventure in Northwest Arkansas.

About Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a nonprofit sanctuary located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, dedicated to rescuing and caring for big cats and other carnivores.

The refuge operates guided experiences and overnight lodging that support its mission, including general admission with an hourly tram tour, behind-the-scenes Carnivore Caravan Tours, themed suites at Africa In The Ozarks, glamping tents, and RV sites adjacent to animal habitats. Visitors can explore the Discovery Area, view habitats up close on guided tram tours, and learn from senior animal care staff during extended behind-the-scenes tours that highlight rescue operations, Rescue Ridge, and the on-site veterinary hospital. Lodging options range from themed suites like the Serengeti, Kalahari, and Congo Suites at the Zulu Lodge to unique stays such as the Siberian Suite and Bam Bam’s Bungalow. RV Spot #2 and RV Spot #6 offer full hookups and proximity to wildlife viewing, while a lodging waiting list helps visitors secure preferred dates. Many accommodations include complimentary tours and amenities such as electricity, comfortable beds, and private decks; some options are pet-friendly. Each experience directly supports animal care, habitat maintenance, and veterinary services at the refuge. Turpentine Creek emphasizes education, transparency, and animal welfare, providing knowledgeable staff-guided interpretation during visits. For travelers seeking an educational, family-friendly wildlife encounter with options for up-close learning and overnight stays, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers structured tours, themed lodging, and opportunities to support the long-term care of rescued animals. Advance reservations are recommended for popular tours, especially lodging and specialized behind-the-scenes experiences today.