THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the thrill of wildlife encounters at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in Maryland. Enjoy safari truck rides, animal talks, and seasonal festivals for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Discover the thrill of wildlife encounters at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in Maryland. Enjoy safari truck rides, animal talks, and seasonal festivals for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Book with Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Catoctin Wildlife Preserve · Thurmont, Maryland
Experience the excitement of General Admission at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve, a unique 100-acre animal sanctuary located just outside Thurmont, Maryland. This family-friendly adventure invites visitors to take safari truck rides through spacious habitats where large herbivores roam freely. You'll have opportunities to get up close with friendly animals like bison, elk, and zebras while learning about their behavior and habitats from knowledgable keepers during engaging talks. Seasonal festivals and special educational events offer even more ways to connect with nature and wildlife conservation efforts. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an animal lover, or traveling with children, this preserve offers a memorable blend of adventure and learning in a stunning outdoor setting. The preserve is designed to prioritize animal welfare while providing a comfortable, accessible outdoor experience for guests of all ages. Plan your visit to enjoy interactive encounters, observe exotic species, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
easy.
2–4 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels with mostly easy walking and some sitting during safari rides.
Yes, children of all ages are welcomed and will enjoy the interactive animal experiences and educational events.
Outside food and drinks are allowed in designated picnic areas, but please help keep the preserve clean.
General Admission includes access to safari truck rides and scheduled keeper talks; private guided tours may be available by special request.
Many paths and safari rides are accessible, but some uneven terrain may present challenges; contact the preserve for specific accommodations.
Expect to see large herbivores such as bison, elk, zebras, deer, and various bird species.
Cancellation policies vary by booking platform; please check directly when purchasing tickets or contact Catoctin Wildlife Preserve.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve has operated for over 25 years, focusing on rescuing and providing sanctuary to exotic and native animals.
The preserve promotes sustainability through habitat protection and educational programs that raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in Thurmont, Maryland is a 100-acre wildlife destination offering a mix of wildlife encounters, educational talks, and seasonal events. The Preserve operates public General Admission experiences that include safari truck rides, opportunities to interact with large herbivores, scheduled keeper talks, and rotating festivals throughout the year. Group Visit options welcome parties of 15 or more with special rates for students and chaperones; groups can add a safari ride or seasonal parakeet and tortoise feeding to enhance the visit. The Zooper Party Package ($375) provides a private birthday experience for up to 10 guests with reserved outdoor space, animal-themed cupcakes, zoo-style food, and a special gift for the birthday child. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve emphasizes close-up animal learning in a managed environment and offers guided interactions under staff supervision. Ticketing options and seasonal activities vary, so visitors are encouraged to check current schedules and availability before planning. The Preserve’s programming is designed for family outings, school trips, and small-group celebrations, combining hands-on experiences with interpretive keeper talks. On-site amenities vary by season, and staff provide guidance to ensure accessible, educational, and safely enjoyable visits for diverse groups.
Book with Catoctin Wildlife Preserve