Discover The Wilds Ohio: An Unforgettable Safari & Conservation Journey

Dr. Narciso Breitenberg Jr. 25 Jun 2025

Nestled deep within the picturesque southeastern Ohio countryside, The Wilds Ohio stands as a truly remarkable destination, a sprawling conservation center and wildlife park that offers an experience unlike any other. Voted the best safari park in Ohio in a recent USA Today poll, this expansive haven promises pure adventure and a profound connection with the natural world, all while championing the cause of rare and endangered animals from across the globe. It's a place where the thrill of discovery meets the heart of conservation, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an extraordinary escape.

More than just a tourist attraction, The Wilds is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people and wildlife. Its unique approach to conservation, combined with a diverse array of immersive activities, ensures that every visit is not only entertaining but also deeply educational. From exhilarating open-air safari tours to serene overnight stays, The Wilds Ohio invites visitors to step off the beaten path and into a world where wildlife thrives and conservation takes center stage.

Unveiling The Wilds Ohio: More Than Just a Park
- A Legacy of Transformation: From Coal Mine to Conservation Hub
Planning Your Expedition to The Wilds Ohio
- Navigating Your Visit: Operating Hours and Seasons
Embark on an Unforgettable Safari Adventure
Beyond the Safari: Immersive Experiences at The Wilds
Stay Awhile: Overnight Accommodations at The Wilds Ohio
The Heart of The Wilds: A Commitment to Conservation
Winter Wonderland: Experiencing The Wilds in the Off-Season
Why The Wilds Ohio Should Be Your Next Adventure

Unveiling The Wilds Ohio: More Than Just a Park

The Wilds Ohio is not your typical zoo or wildlife sanctuary. Spanning nearly 10,000 acres of lush landscapes, it is an expansive conservation center and wildlife park that is truly unique and stunning. This vast acreage provides a home for thousands of acres developed and divided into large sections where African, Asian, and North American species find a unique place to thrive. The sheer scale of the facility allows animals to roam in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats, offering visitors an unparalleled viewing experience.

As a nonprofit organization, The Wilds is driven by a powerful mission: to connect people and wildlife with rare and endangered animals from around the world. Every activity, every tour, and every interaction at The Wilds is carefully woven with this powerful theme of conservation. It’s a place where education meets adventure, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the planet's biodiversity. The recent USA Today poll, which voted it the best safari park in Ohio, is a testament to its exceptional offerings and its significant impact in the realm of wildlife conservation.

A Legacy of Transformation: From Coal Mine to Conservation Hub

The history of the land that now constitutes The Wilds Ohio is as compelling as its current mission. The nearly 10,000 acres the Wilds sits on used to be mined for coal from the 1940s to the 1980s. This industrial past left a landscape scarred by extraction, a stark contrast to the vibrant ecosystem it is today. The transformation of this former strip-mining site into a thriving conservation center is a remarkable story of ecological restoration and visionary planning. It stands as a powerful example of how damaged land can be reclaimed and repurposed for the benefit of wildlife and future generations. This profound reclamation project underscores the dedication of The Wilds to not only protect existing wildlife but also to heal and restore the very earth they inhabit, making it a beacon of environmental stewardship in America's heartland and across the globe.

Planning Your Expedition to The Wilds Ohio

Located in Cumberland, Ohio, at 14000 International Road, The Wilds is way off the beaten path, offering a truly secluded and immersive experience away from urban distractions. While its remote location is part of its charm, it's crucial for visitors to plan their journey accordingly. Columbus is 1.5 hours west of here, and even Zanesville is a thirty-minute drive. Therefore, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get there, accounting for travel time and any potential stops along the way. This rural setting ensures that your visit to The Wilds Ohio feels like a genuine escape into the wild, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The official website, thewilds.org, is an invaluable resource for planning your visit. It provides up-to-date information on tour availability, booking options, and any special events. Given its popularity and the unique nature of its offerings, booking in advance, especially for specific tours or overnight stays, is highly recommended to secure your preferred dates and experiences.

Navigating Your Visit: Operating Hours and Seasons

One of the great advantages of The Wilds Ohio is its accessibility throughout the year. The Wilds is open year-round, offering distinct experiences depending on the season. A full line of tour options runs from May through October, which is typically the peak season for visitors, offering warmer weather and a wide array of activities. During these months, the open-air safari vehicle used to transport visitors through the facility provides an ideal way to observe the animals in their expansive habitats.

However, the adventure doesn't stop when the leaves change. Specialty tours are available from November through April, offering a unique perspective on the park and its inhabitants during the cooler months. These off-season tours often provide a more intimate experience, with fewer crowds and the chance to see animals in a different light, adapted to the winter landscape. Whether you prefer the vibrant energy of summer or the tranquil beauty of winter, The Wilds has something to offer every visitor.

Embark on an Unforgettable Safari Adventure

The cornerstone of any visit to The Wilds Ohio is undoubtedly the open-air safari tour. These guided excursions provide an unparalleled opportunity to get up close with some of the world's most magnificent and endangered animals. As you traverse the vast, naturalistic habitats in a comfortable, open-air safari vehicle, expert guides share fascinating insights into the animals' behaviors, conservation challenges, and the incredible work being done at The Wilds.

Thousands of acres have been developed and divided into large sections where African, Asian, and North American species find a unique place in Ohio to roam freely. Imagine seeing giraffes gracefully browsing, rhinos thundering across plains, or zebras grazing in expansive pastures, all against the backdrop of Ohio's rolling hills. This immersive experience truly transports you, making you feel as though you've stepped onto the savannas of Africa or the steppes of Asia. The commitment to providing vast, naturalistic environments for these rare and endangered animals is what sets The Wilds apart, ensuring both animal welfare and an authentic safari experience for visitors.

Beyond the Safari: Immersive Experiences at The Wilds

While the safari tour is a highlight, The Wilds Ohio offers a plethora of other activities designed to deepen your connection with nature and provide pure adventure. Weaved into every activity and opportunity for adventure at The Wilds is a powerful theme of conservation, ensuring that fun and learning go hand-in-hand. These additional experiences cater to a variety of interests, from adrenaline junkies to those seeking a more relaxed, educational encounter.

Adrenaline and Views: Ziplining Over Animal Pastures

For those seeking an exhilarating thrill, ziplining over animal pastures at The Wilds is an absolute must. Imagine soaring high above the expansive habitats, with giraffes, rhinos, and other incredible creatures grazing beneath you. This unique perspective offers breathtaking panoramic views of the vast landscapes and the animals that call them home. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the park, combining an adrenaline rush with unparalleled scenic beauty and a bird's-eye view of the conservation efforts in action. The zipline experience truly elevates your visit, quite literally, offering a fresh and exciting way to engage with the environment.

Culinary Delights with a View: Rooftop Dining

After an adventurous day, you can dine on a rooftop, enjoying delicious meals with stunning vistas. The rooftop dining experience at The Wilds provides a unique opportunity to relax and savor a meal while overlooking the sprawling habitats and the beautiful Ohio countryside. It's the perfect way to unwind, reflect on your day's adventures, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the park as the sun sets. This thoughtful amenity adds another layer of comfort and luxury to your visit, ensuring that your time at The Wilds Ohio is enjoyable in every aspect.

Conservation in Action: Learning and Engagement

Beyond the excitement, The Wilds offers extensive opportunities to learn about conservation. Through various programs, exhibits, and guided interactions, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing endangered species and the innovative solutions being implemented. This educational component is central to The Wilds' mission, empowering visitors to become advocates for wildlife protection. Whether it's a guided talk, an interactive display, or simply observing the animals in their carefully managed environments, every moment at The Wilds is a chance to learn and connect with the global conservation effort. The powerful theme of conservation is not just a background element; it's an active, engaging part of the visitor experience.

Stay Awhile: Overnight Accommodations at The Wilds Ohio

To truly immerse yourself in the tranquility and wonder of The Wilds Ohio, consider an overnight stay. The facility offers a range of unique accommodations that allow you to extend your adventure and experience the park in a different light. You can stay in a yurt, offering a glamping experience that combines the comforts of home with the rustic charm of camping. These unique dwellings provide a cozy and memorable way to spend the night surrounded by nature.

For those seeking more traditional comforts, The Wilds also offers cabins and rentals, providing private and comfortable retreats. The pinnacle of overnight stays is booking a stay at the Lodge at The Wilds, a private retreat secluded along one of the most scenic lakes on the property. This exclusive lodge offers unparalleled serenity and breathtaking views, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful family escape. The overnight package includes meals, tours, and more, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience from check-in to check-out. Waking up to the sounds of nature, with the possibility of spotting wildlife right outside your window, adds an unparalleled dimension to your visit to The Wilds Ohio.

The Heart of The Wilds: A Commitment to Conservation

At its core, The Wilds is a conservation center making an incredible impact for wildlife in America's heartland and across the globe. As a nonprofit organization, its primary focus is on wildlife conservation, research, and education. The organization plays a vital role in breeding programs for endangered species, contributing to global efforts to prevent extinction. The vast, naturalistic habitats are not just for show; they are designed to support animal welfare and encourage natural behaviors, which are crucial for successful breeding and reintroduction programs.

The dedication to this mission is evident in every aspect of The Wilds' operations. The Ohio Zoological Commission forms to develop a plan for how Ohio could support these cultural and tourist organizations, highlighting the collaborative effort behind such large-scale conservation initiatives. This partnership underscores the importance of The Wilds not just as a regional attraction, but as a significant player in the broader network of zoological and conservation institutions. By visiting The Wilds, you are directly supporting these critical efforts, contributing to the protection of biodiversity for future generations.

Winter Wonderland: Experiencing The Wilds in the Off-Season

While many associate wildlife parks with warm weather, The Wilds Ohio offers a truly magical experience during the colder months. Plan your winter getaway at The Wilds and discover a serene and beautiful side of the park. Bundle up and experience the magic of winter at The Wilds in beautiful rural southeast Ohio. The snow-dusted landscapes create a stunning backdrop for observing animals, many of whom are particularly active and striking against the white scenery. With fewer crowds, winter visits often provide a more intimate and tranquil experience, allowing for deeper observation of the animals and the pristine environment.

Specialty tours are available from November through April, designed to showcase the unique aspects of the park during this season. From crisp, clear days to the quiet beauty of a snowy landscape, a winter visit to The Wilds offers a refreshing and distinct perspective on this incredible conservation center. It's a testament to the park's year-round appeal and its ability to offer unique adventures regardless of the season.

Why The Wilds Ohio Should Be Your Next Adventure

The Wilds Ohio stands as a testament to the power of conservation, adventure, and education, all rolled into one extraordinary destination. It's a place where the thrill of an open-air safari meets the profound impact of wildlife preservation, creating a truly unique and stunning experience. From its humble beginnings as a reclaimed coal mine to its current status as a world-renowned conservation center, The Wilds offers pure adventure in southeastern Ohio, captivating visitors with its vast landscapes and diverse animal inhabitants.

Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping zipline ride, a serene overnight stay in a yurt, or simply the joy of observing rare animals in expansive natural habitats, The Wilds delivers. Its commitment as a nonprofit organization to connect people and wildlife, coupled with its recognition as the best safari park in Ohio by USA Today, solidifies its reputation as a must-visit destination. The powerful theme of conservation woven into every activity ensures that your visit is not just entertaining but also deeply meaningful, contributing to a greater cause.

So, why wait? The Wilds Ohio offers an escape into nature that is both exhilarating and inspiring. It’s an opportunity to witness incredible conservation efforts firsthand and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, The Wilds promises an adventure that educates, excites, and leaves you with a renewed appreciation for the natural world.

For more information, to plan your visit, or to book your unforgettable experience, visit thewilds.org. Have you visited The Wilds Ohio? Share your experiences in the comments below! What was your favorite part of your safari adventure or overnight stay? We'd love to hear from you!

A Visit to The Wilds - Cumberland, Ohio | Family Adventure

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