🦒 Rhinos, giraffes, and zebras, oh my! Embark on an unforgettable African safari adventure without leaving Ohio at The Wilds! 🦏 #OhioNews #OhioAttractions #WildAnimals

CUMBERLAND, OH – Imagine a vast savanna stretching out before you, where majestic giraffes gracefully nibble on leaves, their long necks silhouetted against the golden sun. Nearby, a powerful rhino thunders past, their heavy footsteps shaking the earth beneath your feet.

Zebras, with their striking black and white stripes, graze peacefully alongside exotic antelope species, while a pack of African painted dogs playfully chases each other through the brush.

The air is filled with the calls of exotic birds, and the scent of wild grasses and blooming flowers hangs heavy in the warm breeze. You might think you’ve been transported to the heart of Africa, but in reality, this incredible safari experience is just a short drive away in southeast Ohio at The Wilds.

Rhino and tourbus. Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook — *I love this majestic creature! Can you believe this is in Ohio? Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook*

🦒 A Wild Adventure Awaits in Ohio’s Hidden Gem

Nestled in the heart of southeast Ohio lies a world unlike any other – The Wilds. This massive conservation center, spanning over 10,000 acres, offers visitors a chance to embark on an African safari without ever leaving the Buckeye State.

With its commitment to protecting endangered species and preserving local ecology, The Wilds has become a global leader in conservation efforts over the past three decades.

Giraffe and little kid. Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook — *How much would your kids love this? Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook*

🌿 From Coal Mine to Conservation Haven

The land that now houses The Wilds has a rich history, from its early days as a home to Indigenous peoples to its time as a farmland for settlers. In the late 20th century, the area was mined for coal, but today, it serves a much greater purpose.

The Wilds has transformed this once-scarred landscape into a thriving habitat for threatened and endangered animals, showcasing the power of ecological recovery and restoration.

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🚌 Choose Your Own Adventure

Visitors to The Wilds have a variety of unforgettable tours to choose from, each offering a unique way to discover the wonders of this conservation center. Climb aboard a customized tour bus for an Open-Air Safari, where you’ll get up close and personal with giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and more.

For a more intimate experience, opt for the Wildside Safari, an off-road adventure in a four-wheel drive truck led by expert guides. And for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a Horseback Safari allows you to take in the breathtaking vistas of The Wilds’ pastures on horseback.

Leopard mother and child. Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook — *So adorable! Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook*

🌙 Stay Awhile and Immerse Yourself

To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of The Wilds, consider an overnight stay. The Lodge, a private luxury cabin along a scenic lake, offers all the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped kitchen and wireless Internet.

For a more unique experience, Nomad Ridge provides glamping at its finest, with luxurious private yurts featuring running water, minimalist decor, and personal decks overlooking the animal pasture areas.

African dog smiling. Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook — *Oh my gosh, he’s so cute! Courtesy: The Wilds on Facebook*

🐾 A Commitment to Conservation

The Wilds (14000 International Rd Cumberland, OH 43732) is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a global force in the conservation of threatened and endangered animal species. Check out their website here and their Facebook page here.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and certified by American Humane, The Wilds is dedicated to protecting the animals in its care and educating visitors about the importance of conservation.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of an African safari with the heart of conservation, look no further than The Wilds in southeast Ohio. With its stunning landscapes, diverse array of animals, and commitment to protecting our planet’s most vulnerable species, The Wilds is an experience you won’t soon forget.