The Wilds | Cumberland, Ohio USA
Greater One-Horned Asian Rhinos
Prior to my July 2009 trip, I had a chance to visit the Wilds about 8 years ago, during the earlier stages of its development. The changes that have taken place since that time are nothing short of amazing. The best way to describe this animal oasis is a cross between an African safari and Michael Crichton’s fictional Jurassic Park. Located on about 10,000 acres in the state of Ohio, the Wilds is home to dozens of rare and endangered species from all over the world.
The beauty of this conservation area is apparent upon entering the grounds via a retro-fitted, open-air safari bus. Tickets for the safari transport (Adult $20) and open-air safari ($27) can be purchased at the main building. Within about 75 feet of this building is the Jeffers Park, a memorial dedicated to Chad Jeffers “who wished to preserve nature and educate others in the conservation of wildlife”. After strolling through this shady area and enjoying the mellow tone of the wind harp, safari goers can board the buses that leave every 15-30 minutes during much of the summer.
Since there are herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores all located within the property, entry into each area requires a bit of maneuvering. The buses pass through one large gate, pausing for a short time while the gate closes behind you. Once the driver has ensured that the area is secure, the second large gate opens up into this fantastic animal haven. Each safari may take anywhere from 2.5-3.5 hours, depending upon how many photo ops the resident wildlife provide for its visitors!
Another breathtaking view at the Wilds
The mission of the Wilds is to “advance conservation through science, education and personal experience” – and they do a great job of this by offering summer camps, overnight camping, internships, and several other options for your visit. Some of the animals you may encounter include 4 types of antelope, several bird species, bactrian camels, African wild dogs, cheetahs, giraffes, free roaming bison, and white rhinos!
The safari trips will stop 2 or 3 times, allowing its passengers to disembark into contained areas of the park. Here you are provided the opportunity to view different habitats and plant life, and fill up on snacks and refreshments. One particular stopping point is a beautiful lake; a favorite area for children and adults alike, as you are able to relax a bit while feeding the swarms of healthy catfish.
My party and I had a chance to speak to Robert McBurney, Chief Operations Officer of the Wilds. A veteran of over 6 years, Robert spoke of the passion of their numerous projects and the impressive advancements of the conservation area over the years. Volunteers are always welcome and appreciated at the Wilds. I was told that the best time to see the animals and their newborn offspring is from late July through August, when many of the residents have given birth within their protected environment.
You may not get a chance to ride a rhino or lasso a giraffe, but this is as hands-on as it gets – several species of animals are happy to show off to the safari passengers, often approaching within arms length of the open-air buses.
The newest addition to the Wilds experience will be the lodging area, currently under construction. This area will provide overnight lodging in one of several Yurts, complete with a fire pit overlooking a spectacular view of the property and wildlife. Yurts are traditionally a portable structure used by Central Asian nomads… these Yurts aren’t as primitive as the originals, but they’re true-to-form and are just as comfortable as a high class hotel suite!
View from Yurt lodging area
If you’re in the area, the Wilds is a great overnight or day trip you won’t want to pass up. This is one of the largest conservation areas in the world, and an experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the western hemisphere.
This was a good,concise account of the Wilds and what they are trying to accomplish. Initially, when the first plans were being made for this project which used reclaimed lands from strip mining areas in Southeastern Ohio, there was a lot of resentment and resistance from the renowned Columbus Zoo under the guidance of Jack Hannah. Since then, both sides have realized how mutually beneficial they are to each other, and both organizations support each other in many ways. It’s good to hear how well The Wilds is doing. Thanks for the update.
I wasn’t aware of Jack Hannah’s original issues with the Wilds. Appreciate the info!
I live in Virginia and I have heard mention of The Wilds through family members & friends – I haven’t been there yet but I do hear it is pretty amazing, especially in comparison to other conservation areas, zoos, etc. There’s nothing better than seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, or at least in a simulated one. Animals adapt to different terrain and territory, but many elements of their natural environment can be accurately recreated, and from what I hear from this article and other sources, the staff and supporters of The Wilds have done just that! I look forward to bringing my family before the summer’s done!
Great article. Definitely does the place justice! My family and I went to the Wilds a few weeks ago (we’re from Cleveland). Long drive from us, but we stayed in the area overnight and had a great short visit. Thanks to all those that have backed the Wilds with work and/or donations!
Sounds cool Phil! I’d like to see that