Visit the Big Cats in Eureka Springs

This wildlife refuge is open year round and is a great place to learn about big cats like lions and tigers, and understand the importance of caring for these magnificent animals. Admission cost is $15 for children 13 and up, and $10 for children age 3 - 12. There are admissions discounts for seniors and veterans.

The Education Station is a great place to learn about big cats in the United States. This is where guests will come to understand the mission of the refuge, and learn about the physiology, health, and life of large felines. There is a hands-on section that allows visitors to touch fur and whiskers, as well as toys. There is a medical section that reviews many of the health problems that plague large cats like ingrown claws and abscessed teeth. You can see a tiger claw and cougar tooth up close.

Feeding time in one of the most exciting parts of your visit. Each day more than 1,000 pounds of meat are prepared and include chicken donated by Tyson foods. The power of the cats at feeding time will amaze, and possibly frighten, you. From deep tiger growls to screams of cougars, there is no doubt when it is feeding time. These cats are fed once per day, so they are mighty hungry when the time comes to drop the meat into the cages. Feeding is done in this manner to simulate the hunting instincts of the cats to eat in the evening and overnight. If you are visiting the museum, make sure you arrive later or stay for this evening event.

Habitat Tours are a chance to see the habitats of these animals with the assistance of a guide. More than half of the animals that live at the refuge spend their time in these habitats. Once animals are nursed back to health, they live in the 459 acres refuge, mimicking their natural living environment. The walking tour is a 1/2 mile and educated visitors about the animals, the refuge, and what goes on in the enclosure sites. You will see healthy cats running, playing, and stalking, just like your house cat, and just like these large cats would do in the wild.

The refuge also features seasonal Keeper Talks. The talks honors the refuge's goal of educating the public about big cats, and enlightening people to how important wildlife refuges are to the health of animals. You can get an up close look at big cats, learn about their health, or further explore many of the lessons you have learned throughout your visit. Keeper Talks last about 20 minutes and are given in the refuge's main compound. Guests are encouraged to ask questions and the keepers are happy to share their knowledge and information with visitors. They believe educating the public is the best way to protect the big cat population, and promote good health in these magnificent beasts. For a unique experience filled with adventure and excitement, visit the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs.