Discover Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas through a guided tram tour featuring rescued big cats and interactive exhibits. Learn about conservation while enjoying an immersive outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking required
Wildlife
History
Founded in 1992, the refuge was created to provide sanctuary specifically for big cats displaced from private ownership.
Conservation
Turpentine Creek prioritizes rescue and rehabilitation, emphasizing education on ethical wildlife care and habitat preservation.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Discover Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas through a guided tram tour featuring rescued big cats and interactive exhibits. Learn about conservation while enjoying an immersive outdoor experience.
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.
Location
Eureka Springs, AR
Sanctuary located in the Ozarks
Experiences
10 Experiences
Guided tours, lodging, RV sites
Nonprofit Status
Nonprofit Refuge
Supports rescue and veterinary care
Pet-Friendly
Select Options
Some stays allow pets on site
Reserve general admission, a Carnivore Caravan, or themed lodging to support care, veterinary services, and habitat maintenance.
Book Tours in Advance
The guided tram tours fill quickly, especially on weekends—reserve your spot ahead to ensure availability.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect to stand and walk briefly during the Discovery Area visit; sturdy shoes help you navigate uneven paths.
Bring a Camera with Zoom Lens
Wildlife sightings happen from a distance; a zoom lens will capture crisp images of the big cats safely in their enclosures.
Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Early arrival allows for quieter viewing and a more personal experience with the animals before buses and tour groups arrive.
Binoculars
Enhances distant animal viewing during the tram tour.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and a hat protect you during outdoor portions.
summer
Light Jacket
Fall mornings can be crisp; layering keeps you comfortable.
fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your visit, especially during warmer months.