Join Clint Murphy, curator of Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary in Lilburn, GA, for an exclusive private tour that dives deep into wildlife care and conservation. Discover how personalized diets and enrichment activities keep native animals thriving behind the scenes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most visitors with light walking ability, ranging from ages 10 and up.
Wildlife
History
The Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary has long served as a rehabilitation center for injured native wildlife in Georgia, emphasizing education and care.
Conservation
The sanctuary focuses on sustainable wildlife management through habitat preservation and enrichment, minimizing human impact during tours.
Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary
Join Clint Murphy, curator of Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary in Lilburn, GA, for an exclusive private tour that dives deep into wildlife care and conservation. Discover how personalized diets and enrichment activities keep native animals thriving behind the scenes.
Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary in Lilburn, Georgia, is a nonprofit wildlife refuge dedicated to rescue, care, and education for both native and exotic animals. The sanctuary provides year-round housing and professional care for resident species such as black bears, bison, lemurs, kinkajous, two-toed sloths, and wallabies. Visitors can attend public self-guided visits, keeper-led Wild Encounters, private Sloth Encounters, educational Field Trips, Anniversary Tours with curator Clint Murphy, and special events like the Bears' Birthday Bash.
Staff at Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary includes trained keepers and animal care professionals who run species-specific training, enrichment programs, and nutritional plans. Keeper Talks and guided tours explain rescue histories, daily routines, and the sanctuary’s approach to rehabilitation, while clearly communicating safety and no-direct-contact rules for certain animals.
Field Trip programs are designed for schools and youth groups, offering interactive learning through exhibits, a petting zoo, and educational talks that align with common curriculum goals. The sanctuary is accessible to metro Atlanta visitors and emphasizes transparent policies on safety and animal welfare.
Through public programs, special encounters, and community partnerships, Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary advances education, rehabilitation, and conservation efforts while encouraging responsible wildlife stewardship and visitor engagement.
Location
Lilburn, GA
Accessible from metro Atlanta
Tours Offered
5 Experiences
Guided and self-guided options
Resident Species
Bears, Sloths, Lemurs
Diverse rescued animals
Weekend Events
Wild Encounters
Keeper-led programs on weekends
Reserve Wild Encounters, Sloth Encounters, Field Trips, or special events like the Bears' Birthday Bash — limited weekend availability.
Book Early to Secure Your Spot
Tours are limited to 15 participants to keep the experience intimate; reserve in advance to avoid missing out.
Arrive at the Gift Shop for Check-In
All tours begin at the sanctuary’s gift shop, where you’ll meet your guide and prepare for your visit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour involves walking through various habitats, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
No Service Animals in Behind-the-Scenes Areas
Due to sensitive animal environments, service animals cannot be accommodated in certain parts of the tour—not wheelchair accessible.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating sanctuary trails and habitats comfortably.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour, especially in warmer months.
summer
Light Jacket
Useful for cooler mornings and evenings during spring tours.
spring
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protect yourself during outdoor portions of the tour especially in summer.
summer