Secure your private adventure at Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, where serene trails and diverse wildlife await just outside Lilburn, Georgia. Discover what makes this experience a perfect blend of nature and tranquility.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly flat trails with natural surfaces.
Wildlife
History
The sanctuary preserves important wetland ecosystems that were historically vital to native tribes and early settlers in Georgia.
Conservation
Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary actively promotes habitat restoration and native species protection through sustainable visitor practices.
Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary
Secure your private adventure at Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, where serene trails and diverse wildlife await just outside Lilburn, Georgia. Discover what makes this experience a perfect blend of nature and tranquility.
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 in Advance
Reservations are required to access private tours and ensure your preferred date and time.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Prepare for uneven, natural terrain by wearing sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance wildlife spotting with binoculars to see birds and animals from a distance without disturbance.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals quietly and maintain a safe distance to protect their habitat and your safety.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Provides stability and comfort while walking on natural trails.
Binoculars
Helps with spotting distant wildlife and birds without disturbing them.
Insect Repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months.
summer
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during longer visits or warmer seasons.