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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with mostly easy walking and some sitting during safari rides.
Wildlife
History
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve has operated for over 25 years, focusing on rescuing and providing sanctuary to exotic and native animals.
Conservation
The preserve promotes sustainability through habitat protection and educational programs that raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
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.
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.
Property Size
100 acres
Extensive habitats and trails
Group Visits
15+ guests
Special rates for students & chaperones
Party Package
$375
Includes space, cupcakes, and a gift
Safari Rides
Available
Thrilling guided truck experiences
Choose General Admission, schedule a Group Visit, or book the Zooper Party Package ($375) — check availability and ticket options now.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The 100-acre preserve involves walking over natural terrain and on safari rides, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
Binoculars enhance your view of distant animals during safari rides and allow for better wildlife observation.
Arrive early for keeper talks
Keeper talks are scheduled throughout the day; arriving early ensures you don’t miss these educational sessions.
Use insect repellent in warmer months
Maryland can have mosquitoes and ticks; insect repellent helps make your visit more comfortable and safe.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support and comfort for walking across natural terrain.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing during safari rides and walks.
Weather-appropriate layers
Keeps you comfortable as Maryland weather can change throughout the day.