The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio: An African Safari in the Heart of Appalachia
If you think you have to travel to Africa to experience giraffes stretching toward the sky, rhinos grazing across open grasslands, or zebras running freely through rolling hills, think again. Tucked away in the scenic countryside near Cumberland, Ohio, The Wilds offers one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in the United States.
Unlike a traditional zoo, The Wilds is a vast conservation center where endangered animals roam across thousands of acres of open pasture. It’s a place where visitors can experience wildlife up close while learning how conservation efforts are helping protect some of the world’s most threatened species.
Whether you’re planning a family road trip, looking for a unique Ohio adventure, or simply love animals, The Wilds deserves a place on your travel bucket list.
What Is The Wilds?
The Wilds is one of the largest wildlife conservation centers in North America, spanning nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed land in southeastern Ohio. Rather than housing animals in small exhibits, the property provides expansive natural habitats where species can roam freely while participating in important conservation and breeding programs.
Operated in partnership with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, The Wilds focuses on conservation, education, scientific research, and restoring endangered wildlife populations around the world. Every visit directly supports these important conservation efforts.
A Remarkable Transformation
One of the most fascinating parts of The Wilds isn’t just the animals—it’s the land itself.
Decades ago, this landscape looked dramatically different. From the 1940s through the 1980s, the area was heavily surface mined for coal. After mining operations ended, local leaders envisioned transforming the reclaimed property into something extraordinary.
Today, the once-industrial landscape has become thriving grasslands, forests, lakes, and wildlife habitat. It’s considered one of America’s greatest examples of ecological restoration and proves that damaged land can be transformed into something beautiful once again.
Animals You’ll See
The Wilds is home to hundreds of animals representing numerous endangered and threatened species from around the globe. Depending on the season and the tour you choose, you may encounter:
- Southern white rhinos
- Masai giraffes
- Grevy’s zebras
- Persian onagers
- Przewalski’s horses
- American bison
- Cheetahs
- Sichuan takins
- Bactrian camels
- Ostriches
- Scimitar-horned oryx
- Various antelope species
Because the animals live in large natural habitats rather than enclosed exhibits, every safari is a little different. One visit may feature rhinos grazing beside zebras, while another might include giraffes wandering close to your vehicle.
Safari Tours
The Open-Air Safari is the most popular experience and gives guests the opportunity to ride through the preserve aboard specially designed safari vehicles. Knowledgeable guides explain the history of the property, introduce the animals, and share fascinating conservation stories along the way. Tours generally require advance reservations, especially during peak travel seasons. Our tour guide Nile P was outstanding. He was extremely knowledgeable about every animal, the history of The Wilds, and even gave us his best animal and bird sound impressions. At one point a very curious female looked up and responded to his call when he said he had just made a sound the male of the species makes.
For visitors wanting something even more immersive, The Wilds also offers premium experiences such as:
- Wildside Safari
- Sunset Safari
- Zipline Safaris
- Horseback Tours
- Birding Experiences
- Photography Tours
- Behind-the-scenes encounters
These smaller group adventures often allow guests to get even closer to the animals while learning about the ongoing conservation work.
Conservation That Matters
The Wilds isn’t simply an attraction, it’s an active conservation facility.
Scientists and animal care specialists work with endangered species from around the world through breeding programs, habitat restoration, veterinary care, and scientific research.
The organization has celebrated significant successes with southern white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, Masai giraffes, and many other rare species. It also plays an important role in restoring native Ohio wildlife, including the endangered eastern hellbender salamander and American bison restoration efforts.
More Than Just Animals
Visitors often discover there’s much more to The Wilds than safari tours.
Depending on the season, you can also enjoy:
- Scenic overlooks
- Hiking trails
- Bird watching
- Educational exhibits
- Gift shop
- Café
- Overnight stays at Nomad Ridge luxury yurts
- Family camps and educational programs
- Seasonal events
The peaceful setting makes it easy to spend an entire day exploring the property.
Tips for Visiting
To make the most of your adventure:
- Reserve safari tours well in advance.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Don’t forget your camera with a zoom lens.
- Arrive early to explore the visitor center.
- Dress for the weather, as much of the experience takes place outdoors.
- Plan for at least half a day, or a full day if you’re adding additional activities.
Getting There
The Wilds is located just outside Cumberland in southeastern Ohio, approximately two hours east of Columbus. The drive winds through beautiful Appalachian hills, making the journey almost as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Why The Wilds Should Be on Your Ohio Bucket List
Ohio may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of safari adventures, but The Wilds is unlike anywhere else in the country. It’s a place where conservation, education, and adventure come together across thousands of acres of restored landscape.
Watching giraffes stroll across open hillsides, hearing ostriches call across the grasslands, or spotting a rhino just yards away creates memories that last a lifetime. Even more inspiring is knowing your visit helps protect endangered species for future generations.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a weekend getaway, or simply looking for one of Ohio’s most unique attractions, The Wilds offers an experience that surprises nearly everyone who visits. It’s a reminder that extraordinary adventures don’t always require a passport—sometimes they’re waiting just down the road in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio.