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Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

239 Turpentine Creek Lane · Eureka Springs, AR

Why you should go…

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a nonprofit big cat sanctuary formed in 1992 on 459 acres about seven miles from Eureka Springs. It houses more than 100 rescued lions, tigers, cougars, leopards and bears in large natural-habitat enclosures, and has taken in more than 400 animals from private owners and roadside zoos over three decades. The refuge holds Verified status from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and offers overnight stays through its Safari Lodge, RV park and campground.

  • #wildlife
  • #sanctuary
  • #big cats
  • #family
  • #nonprofit

Good to know

General attractions guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Book the time slot, not just the ticket

    Timed entry is now the norm at big-draw attractions, and online tickets are often cheaper than the gate.

  • Grab the daily schedule on arrival

    Feeding times, keeper talks, and shows run on a posted timetable that changes day to day.

  • The first hour is the quietest

    Queues build through late morning and peak after lunch, so an early start buys you the shortest waits.

  • Budget past the ticket price

    Parking, lockers, strollers, and food inside the gates are common extras worth planning for.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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    38 mi awayMore like this

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    Branson

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    Ozark Mountains entertainment town packed with live-music theatres, lakes, and family attractions.

    38 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
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    Springfield

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    Missouri's third-largest city, birthplace of Route 66 and home to a flagship Bass Pro Shops.

    67 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing