Wild Animal Sanctuary

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the biggest refuge for large carnivores in the Western Hemisphere. The refuge on the windswept plains of Weld County, Colo., includes 720 acres of habitat for the rescued animals. Besides lions, tigers and bears, the refuge also is home to wolves, camels and coyotes.

The animals came from a variety of background, but none of them can be freed. "Because they were born and raised in captivity, there's no hope they will be released into the wild," said Tawny Richey, the welcome center manager for the sanctuary. Some of the animals were raised as pets, while others hail from circuses.

Pat Craig founded the sanctuary in 1980, and the wildlife refuge is a nonprofit organization that does not take government funds. Instead, the Wild Animal Sanctuary relies on private donors to keep the refuge open. Bob Barker of "The Price is Right" fame donated $2 million in 2011.

The sanctuary receives calls from around the world for rescue opportunities. "We recently received 25 lions from Bolivia in February," said Katie Vandergrift, public relations director for the sanctuary. The South American country outlawed circuses in 2009, and the sanctuary built a lion house that will be open to the public soon.

Weather permitting, the Wild Animal Sanctuary is open 361 days of the year. The sanctuary is closed on Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year. Admission prices may change during the year. In case of inclement weather, call 303-536-0118 to check if the sanctuary will be open.

Hours for 2013:
Winter (October 1 - April 30): 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Summer (May 1 - September 30): 9 a.m. to Sunset

Admission for 2013:
Adults: $15
Children (ages 3 to 12): $7.50

Directions:
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is located 30 miles northeast of Denver in Keenesburg, Colo. From I-25, exit on I-76 toward Ft. Morgan. Continue on I-76 and exit at the town of Hudson, Colo. Head east on Highway 53 for four miles, and then turn right on County Road 53. The county road continues until the Wild Animal Sanctuary's parking lot. Please note the last several miles are on a dirt road.

Address:
The Wild Animal Sanctuary
1946 Road 53
Keenesburg, CO 80643
Phone: 303-536-0118

More: Photos of the Wild Animal Sanctuary

For a true appreciation of the wild animals, visit during feeding times or sunset.

• Feeding Times: The animals are fed on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. The feedings start at around 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. and continue throughout the morning.
• Sunset: The animals are more active at sunset than during the heat of the day, and the setting sun over the plains makes for scenic photos.
• Adopt an Animal: Visitors can adopt an animal starting at $20 a month for large animals and $10 a month for small animals.