Expansive conservation center offering open-air safari tours through grasslands and forests inhabited by rare and endangered species.
General Information
Open year-round for overnight stays and special programs; advance reservations required
Seniors (60+): $35
Children (4–9): $30
Children under 4: Free
Parking: $8
How to Get There
From Columbus, OH (85 mi): Take I-70 E to Exit 169 for SR-83 S toward Cumberland, continue 12 miles, turn right on SR-146 W, then left on Zion Ridge Rd, left on SR-284, and finally left on International Rd to reach the entrance.
Overview
The Wilds is one of North America's largest wildlife conservation centers, sprawling across nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed mining land in southeastern Ohio. This unique destination blends adventure and education, offering open-air safari tours where visitors can observe rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, and other rare species roaming freely in expansive pastures. The Wilds is not a traditional zoo—it’s a living laboratory for conservation science, where endangered animals thrive in naturalistic habitats and guests can witness firsthand the efforts to protect global biodiversity.
Beyond the safari, The Wilds offers immersive experiences including ziplining, horseback riding, and overnight stays in luxury yurts at Nomad Ridge. Educational programs and field stations engage visitors of all ages, while the serene landscape of rolling hills and lakes provides a tranquil backdrop for exploration. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or a traveler looking for a unique escape, The Wilds delivers an unforgettable journey into the heart of conservation.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the The Wilds, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
