Safari VIP Animal Adventure at Eureka Springs Safari Park, Eagle Rock
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels since most of the trip is vehicle-based with limited walking.
Overview
Drive through open pastures with bison and kangaroos on a unique wildlife adventure in Eagle Rock, Missouri. Discover what makes Eureka Springs Safari Park a standout destination for animal encounters.
Details
Located in Eagle Rock, Missouri, Eureka Springs Safari Park offers a hands-on animal experience that's a refreshing departure from traditional zoos. The Safari VIP Animal Adventure invites visitors to drive their own vehicles through open pastures where bison, deer, llamas, and kangaroos roam freely. What sets this safari apart is the intimate access it grants: you can hand-feed these animals, pet a baby kangaroo, or watch a curious llama approach your window. The drive-through set-up transforms the outing into an immersive encounter with wildlife without the barrier of cages.
The landscape surrounding the park features rolling Missouri hills and open grassy fields, creating a peaceful backdrop that mirrors the natural settings of these animals. Unlike urban zoos confined by exhibits, this location provides a wide, spacious environment that suits the roaming instincts of large animals like bison and deer. Visitors frequently highlight how approachable and friendly the staff are, ensuring the adventure feels personal and welcoming.
Though the Safari focuses primarily on outdoor, drive-through interaction with sizable mammals and birds, there is a petting area where guests can have closer contact with smaller animals, including guinea pigs and wild cats. The experience is especially engaging for families and animal lovers eager to connect in ways that typical visits to a zoo don’t allow.
Eureka Springs Safari Park plays an important role in the local outdoor recreation scene by offering a unique wildlife experience that blends education and interaction. For anyone traveling through the Missouri Ozarks region, the park provides a refreshing outdoor activity that combines wildlife observation with hands-on moments in a setting that feels both adventurous and accessible.
Whether you’re looking to hand-feed animals or simply enjoy a scenic drive punctuated by unexpected animal encounters, this safari stands out as a distinctive way to engage with nature in Eagle Rock.
Adventure Tips
Bring Your Own Vehicle
This safari operates as a drive-through; make sure your vehicle is suitable for dirt and gravel paths.
Respect Animal Boundaries
Maintain windows halfway open when feeding animals to ensure safety for both guests and wildlife.
Plan for Sun Protection
With much of the experience outdoors and in an open-air vehicle, sunscreen and hats are key for comfort.
Bring Cash or Card
Check payment methods in advance; some amenities may require cash for small purchases or tips.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet scenic overlooks along the nearby Osage River
- Hidden hiking trails within Mark Twain National Forest nearby
Wildlife
- American bison
- baby kangaroos
History
Eagle Rock sits within the Missouri Ozarks, an area rich in natural history and once traversed by Native American tribes and early settlers.
Conservation
Eureka Springs Safari Park focuses on providing safe, open environments for large mammals, contributing to regional education about wildlife stewardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Alongside the bison pasture edge
- near the kangaroo petting area
- at the llama feeding zones
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during the open-air drive under direct sunlight.
summer specific
Insect Repellent
Keeps bugs at bay while interacting with animals in outdoor spaces.
summer|spring specific
Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking around petting areas and viewing spots outside the vehicle.
Camera
Capture close encounters with wildlife and scenic Missouri countryside.