Homeschool families gather at Magnolia Wilds in Ethel, LA for immersive wildlife encounters and hands-on education. Meet kangaroos, sloths, and more in this interactive, nature-centered adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; primarily walking on mostly flat terrain.
Wildlife
History
Magnolia Wilds, formerly Barn Hill Preserve, has expanded its mission to integrate wildlife conservation with hands-on education, serving the Ethel community as a steward for both local and exotic species.
Conservation
Magnolia Wilds teaches sustainable interaction with wildlife, emphasizing respect and care while supporting efforts to protect endangered and exotic animals.
Magnolia Wilds
Homeschool families gather at Magnolia Wilds in Ethel, LA for immersive wildlife encounters and hands-on education. Meet kangaroos, sloths, and more in this interactive, nature-centered adventure.
Magnolia Wilds is an immersive wildlife preserve and adventure destination in Louisiana known for hands-on animal encounters and outdoor activities. The preserve offers a diverse lineup of experiences that range from high-adrenaline ziplining across 32 acres of hardwood forest to intimate, staff-supervised Otter Swim sessions in a temperature-controlled pool. Guests can encounter sloths, kangaroos, giraffes, and other animal ambassadors during guided Wild Discovery tours, safari wagon rides, and full-day packages that combine animal meet-and-greets with lunch, live shows, and a Tipsy Safari giraffe feeding experience. Seasonal and community-focused events include goat yoga, a family-friendly Pumpkin Patch on October and November weekends, Teacher Night, homeschool hangouts, and Wild Nights at the Movies. Magnolia Wilds organizes both self-guided campus walks like Sips with Sloths and structured programs such as All Day Tours and specialized combinations featuring zipline, sloth safaris, and otter swims. Trained staff oversee interactions and safety protocols for all animal encounters and aquatic activities. Reservations are recommended for limited-capacity experiences such as otter swims and full-day tours. Magnolia Wilds serves families, groups, educators, and animal lovers seeking memorable wildlife interactions paired with adventure activities, presenting a mix of educational programming and recreational offerings.
Preserve Size
32 acres
Hardwood forest zipline course
Longest Zipline
900 ft
Final ride overlooking Comite River
Tours Offered
17 experiences
Zipline, swims, safaris, events
Animal Encounters
Sloths, Otters, Giraffes
Kangaroos and other ambassadors
Reserve popular experiences—zipline, otter swim, sloth safari, or goat yoga—before spots fill up.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time to check in and get settled for the guided tour.
Prepare for Outdoor Walking
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on natural terrain during the 2-hour walking tour.
Bring Water and Snacks
Though the preserve provides an engaging experience, staying hydrated and energized is key, especially for younger participants.
Respect Animal Boundaries
Follow guides’ instructions carefully when interacting with animals to ensure safety for both visitors and wildlife.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support and traction for walking on natural trails during the tour.
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the outdoor activities, especially during warmer months.
summer
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protects skin from sun exposure during daytime outdoor exploration.
spring|summer|fall
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable during cooler weather or unexpected temperature changes.
fall|winter