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Location
Best time
Visit on weekdays or arrive early to avoid crowds, as reviewers specifically mention the preserve can get quite crowded at peak times, which impacts the experience quality.
Visitor tip
Don't miss the safari ride experience - it's a unique highlight that allows you to get close to animals and feed them directly from the vehicle. Note that safari rides officially open Memorial Day Weekend, so plan accordingly if visiting earlier in the season.
Visitor tip
The preserve is very family-friendly with plenty of shaded areas, clean restrooms, and good parking including handicap accessibility - ideal for families with young children who need breaks and facilities during their visit.
About Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
Animal exhibits & special events. Small zoo featuring animal displays & enclosures as well as seasonal events, plus a gift shop.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Location
- Thurmont, MD
- Size
- 50-acre park
- Highlights
- Safari Rides, close animal encounters, diverse exotic animal collection
What visitors say
An Amazing Day at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve! Our visit to Catoctin Wildlife Preserve was nothing short of fantastic! The variety of animals was incredible—from exotic big cats and playful monkeys to the most adorable lemurs and…
This is a really fun & family friendly experience if you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids. My son loved it here, but I’d recommend coming on a day when it’s not too busy as it can get quite crowded at times. Also, It’s…
Visited the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in OCT 2025. Had a great time walking the park and observing the animals. The park was clean and the animals were well taken care of. Would definitely come back again.
From 2,331 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- Catoctin Wildlife Preserve spans 50 acres with natural ponds and lush landscaping, housing hundreds of exotic animals including bears, boas, macaws, monkeys, panthers, pythons, alligators, and zebras
- The Safari Ride experience allows visitors to feed animals directly from a vehicle, offering a unique interactive encounter not typical of standard zoo visits
- Safari Rides officially open Memorial Day Weekend, indicating seasonal operation and temperature-dependent exhibit management
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