Behind-the-Scenes Big Cat Tour at Turpentine Creek
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with minimal walking required
Overview
Step beyond the usual wildlife tour with Turpentine Creek’s exclusive "Coffee with the Curator" experience. Sip coffee, enjoy breakfast, and access rarely seen parts of this Arkansas big cat sanctuary for a unique morning of wildlife insight.
Coffee with the Curator
Experience this unique opportunity of meeting and touring behind-the-scenes with one of our Curators
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, guided by a curator. Enjoy coffee and breakfast while learning about big cats and the exotic pet trade. Explore areas inaccessible to regular tours, including the veterinary hospital and animal care facilities, for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Email laurie@turpentinecreek.org to schedule
Rates
Per Person: $500
This tour will accommodate up to five people which may not exclusively be one party
Tour Times
Start time: 9:00AM Duration: Approximately 3 hours Location: Check in and Meet your Guide at the Gift Shop
Bookings must be made at least 72 hours in advance of the tour date.
Additional Information
You will meet with Curator Emily McCormack or Assistant Curator Laurie Vanderwal (based on availability) for coffee and a light breakfast.
During this time you will be treated to a presentation about big cats in captivity, the exotic pet trade and the history of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge before heading out for a behind the scenes tour.
You will travel in the comfort of an SUV or transit van to visit the entire refuge including areas not accessible on the hourly tram tour.
This includes Rescue Ridge, our state-of-the-art Veterinary Hospital, our commissary where the animal's diets are prepared and our new expansion in Freedom Field.
This personally guided tour will last around 3 hours and gives you a truly unique perspective on the lives of the animals who reside at Turpentine Creek and the work that we do as a non-profit sanctuary.
Booking Your Tour
Tour schedule is dependent on the availability or our Curators, please email laurie@turpentinecreek.org to schedule your tour
Cancellation and Inclement Weather Policy
Regular Cancellations
If you have to cancel your tour we will gladly issue a gift certificate for the full amount of your tour OR If you cancel
- 7 or more days prior to your tour date - full reimbursement
- 1-6 days prior to your tour date - $25 cancellation fee will be charged
- within 24 hours of your tour date - 50% of total paid will be charged
Weather Related Cancellations
- Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge will close during extreme weather conditions
- We reserve the right to cancel all tours due to inclement weather (or the threat of inclement weather)
- Cancellations due to weather are eligible for a full reimbursement of payment or a gift card will be issued in the full amount.
Adventure Tips
Book in advance
This exclusive tour requires at least 72 hours’ notice and is limited to five guests to ensure an intimate experience.
Wear sturdy footwear
Although transport is via SUV or van, some light walking on uneven surfaces is possible during behind-the-scenes visits.
Prepare for cooler indoor temps
Some areas such as the veterinary hospital are climate-controlled and may feel cooler than outside—bring a light layer.
Respect animal viewing rules
Follow your guide’s instructions carefully to minimize disturbance to the animals and ensure everyone’s safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Lions
- Tigers
History
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge was founded specifically to rescue and provide lifelong care for abused and abandoned big cats.
Conservation
The refuge operates as a non-profit sanctuary focused on educating the public about the exotic pet trade and animal welfare.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provide stable footing on varied terrain during behind-the-scenes access.
Layered clothing
Adjust for temperature changes between indoor facilities and the outdoors.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
summer specific
Notebook or phone
For taking notes or photos during the educational tour segments.