Introduction
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is an interactive zoo on over 50 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. It is home to over 300 species of animals, including bears, leopards, lemurs, and various reptiles and birds. Visitors can engage closely with many animals through touch and feeding experiences. Natural ponds, lush landscaping, and wandering Ambass-zoo-dors eagerly indulge inquisitive guests. Airtopia Adventure Park is another top destination to have fun with kids and family.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and zoo tickets
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and zoo tickets are priced as follows; For Children tickets are $20.50 (ages 3–12), for Adults (13–64 years old): $29.50, Military and seniors (age 65 and up): $27.50, Kids (ages 0–2): No charge. Remember to confirm the current ticket costs and any extra charges for unique activities like safari rides. Brays Bayou Park is another top to explore with kids and family.
Catoctin wildlife preserve and zoo Thurmont
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo, located at 13019A Catoctin Furnace Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, offers a unique experience with natural ponds and lush landscaping. The preserve features more interactive touch and feed opportunities compared to other animal parks in the region, allowing guests to engage closely with the animals. Watkins Regional Park is another top spot to visit with family and kids.
Catoctin Mountain extended loop trail
A special fusion of engaging animal encounters and scenic beauty may be found at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve. In a more engaging environment than other regional parks, visitors may take in a range of wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and natural ponds. They can also touch and feed the animals. The neighboring Catoctin Mountain Park offers west-side trails for a more sedate hike that offers animal viewing opportunities and an adventurous ambiance.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo hours
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last entry at 3:00 PM. However, the preserve only opens when it is dry and at least 45°F. It’s advisable to double-check their hours before visiting, especially during inclement weather.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve map
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve Fossa
The Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is known for successfully breeding and raising the fossa, Madagascar’s largest carnivorous mammal, which is known for its cat-like appearance and dietary preference for lemurs. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve features more interactive touch and feed opportunities than any other animal park in the region.
Catoctin zoo
Although there aren’t as many animals to view as at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., this is a fantastic spot for kids if you don’t mind big crowds or long walks. The only group of these monkeys outside of their native Indonesia is in Catoctin. From Memorial Day through November, the zoo is open every day. Hours throughout the summer are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in October, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in November.
Catoctin zoo coupons
You can find Catoctin Wildlife Preserve coupons offering discounts such as 75% off for December and 20% off guest admissions. It’s also worth noting that members enjoy unlimited regular admissions for a year and additional discounts.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve Photos
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve Weather
The yearly weather at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve can vary significantly, with average snowfall around 35 inches, though this can fluctuate from year to year. For instance, one year saw over 82 inches, while another only had 6 inches. The average January temperature is about 32°F, indicating cold winters, while the average precipitation throughout the year is approximately 31.90 inches. Eagle Ridge Mall is another spot to visit with family and kids for shopping.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve reviews
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve has received mixed reviews. Some visitors describe it as an enjoyable experience, particularly for families, noting the appeal of the wildlife and recommending an early visit for freshness. However, there are severe criticisms as well, with some patrons expressing concerns over animal welfare, citing issues like lack of water, small cages, and unkempt animals.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve nearby places to visit
Nearby places to visit around Catoctin Wildlife Preserve include Cunningham Falls State Park, where you can enjoy hiking and beautiful waterfalls, the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, which is a religious site with picturesque grounds, and the National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes, known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
Cunningham Falls State Park
Maryland’s Catoctin Mountains are home to Cunningham Falls State Park, which is well-known for its recreational opportunities and natural beauty. It is the tallest cascading waterfall in Maryland and is reachable via walking and hiking routes. Swimming, hiking, fishing, and canoeing are among the activities offered to visitors. Campsites and camper cabins are open from April to October.
National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
Emmetsburg, Maryland, is home to the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. This historical and religious landmark honors the first American-born saint, Elizabeth Ann Seton. The Basilica, which houses her shrine, the museum, and old residences, is open to visitors. Mass is said every day at 1:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and the tourist center, which has a theater and exhibits, is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM.
National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes
The National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is located at Mount St. Mary University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. It features one of the oldest replicas of the Lourdes shrine in the Western hemisphere, built approximately two decades after the original apparition in France. The grotto is open year-round and admission is free.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve hotels
There are several hotels near Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in Thurmont, Maryland. Options include hotels with positive reviews such as Lansdowne Resort, Turf Valley Resort, and Salamander Resort & Spa. You can have a quick meal or can also stay for the night. The mentioned hotels are luxurious and well-maintained.
Conclusion
The 50-acre Catoctin Wildlife Preserve provides a singular chance for guests to interact with a variety of animals in a gorgeously designed setting that includes gardens and natural ponds. Through the sponsorship of the Global Wildlife Trust, the preserve seeks to improve human comprehension of the animal kingdom. It is intended to draw curious visitors who may engage with the free-ranging animals on the property.
