Explore Georgia’s wild side with a private tour at Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll meet rescued native animals and enjoy scenic riverfront trails. Learn about local wildlife conservation on this special outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels including children and seniors; gentle walking on natural terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary was established to rehabilitate and protect injured native animals across Georgia.
Conservation
The sanctuary actively promotes wildlife education and rehabilitation, contributing to local biodiversity and environmental stewardship.
Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore Georgia’s wild side with a private tour at Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll meet rescued native animals and enjoy scenic riverfront trails. Learn about local wildlife conservation on this special outdoor experience.
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.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Paths can be uneven and slightly muddy near the river, so sturdy shoes will keep you steady.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing by bringing binoculars for spotting birds and distant animals.
Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during summer months to stay refreshed on the walk.
Respect Wildlife Boundaries
Observe animals from a distance and follow all guide instructions to ensure safety for you and the animals.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Supports your feet during walks on uneven sanctuary trails.
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warmer weather.
summer
Binoculars
Helps with spotting birds and distant wildlife.
Light Rain Jacket
Protects you from spring showers and unexpected weather changes.
spring