ZooNew York, US

Catskill Game Farm

Step into a captivating blend of history and nature at The Old Game Farm, once America's largest privately owned zoo.

About

Step into a captivating blend of history and nature at The Old Game Farm, once America's largest privately owned zoo. This distinctive destination reimagines the former Catskill Game Farm, transforming its 200+ acres into an immersive experience where guests can stay in a boutique inn, glamp under the stars, and explore the fascinating remnants of a bygone era. Wander through miles of paved walkways that once welcomed millions, now leading past over 100 overgrown animal enclosures and structures that whisper tales of its past. The heart of The Old Game Farm is the beautifully renovated Long Neck Inn, formerly the giraffe barn, offering luxurious accommodations with a nod to its unique heritage. For those seeking a closer connection to nature, upscale glamping sites provide a comfortable yet adventurous stay amidst the secluded woods. While the exotic animals are long gone, replaced by the peaceful presence of cows, goats, and chickens, the site encourages quiet contemplation and a deep appreciation for the history held within its bounds. Visiting The Old Game Farm is more than just a stay; it's an exploration. Guests have exclusive access to wander the grounds, discovering old cages, administrative buildings, and iconic structures like the rhino and giraffe enclosures, all being slowly reclaimed by nature. It's an ideal spot for photographers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a truly unique getaway where the past and present intertwine amidst the scenic beauty of the Catskill Mountains. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

The Catskill Game Farm was founded in 1933 by Roland Lindemann, initially as a private collection of deer before growing into the first privately owned zoo in the United States, officially recognized in 1958. At its peak, it spanned over 914 acres, with 136 acres open to the public, housing some 2,000 animals from over 150 species, including lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and kangaroos. It became a beloved family destination, known for its feeding pens where visitors could interact with tame animals. However, facing mounting financial difficulties, declining attendance, and legal controversies related to the sale of animals, the Catskill Game Farm closed its doors permanently on Columbus Day, October 9, 2006, after 73 years of operation. The animals and attractions were auctioned off. The abandoned property was then purchased in 2012 by Ben and Cathy Ballone, who began transforming it. In 2019, the former giraffe barn reopened as The Long Neck Inn, and glamping sites were established. The property was sold again in 2020 to a group of private investors who continue to develop it as a unique accommodation and historical exploration site, preserving its legacy while offering new experiences.

What to do here

Explore the historical ruins of the zoo, hike the trails (including 20+ miles of connecting mountain biking/hiking trails), relax at the inn or campsite, and enjoy the tranquil Catskill Mountain views. Starting in Spring 2025, visitors can also enjoy guided Goat Tours.

Seasonal info

Spring/Summer: Lush greenery, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and glamping. Fall: Spectacular fall foliage in the Catskills, perfect for photography and scenic walks. Winter: Peaceful and atmospheric, though some glamping sites may close (one is year-round).

Accessibility

The property features 3.5 miles of original paved walkways, which are generally accessible. However, some grass and gravel areas, or overgrown sections, may pose challenges. Call ahead to inquire about specific needs.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring the grounds. If staying at The Long Neck Inn or a glamping site, a 1-2 night stay is recommended to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy the local area.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor grounds, with fall foliage providing stunning scenic backdrops. Summer is also popular for glamping and enjoying the Catskills, though the vegetation will be denser around the abandoned structures. Winter can be a unique, quiet experience for those staying at the inn, with snow-covered landscapes adding to the atmospheric exploration.
Location: New York, US
Species in this guide: 2

Best for

History Enthusiasts And Urban ExplorersPhotographers Seeking Unique And Atmospheric SubjectsCouples And Individuals Looking For A Distinctive And Quiet GetawayGlamping And Boutique Inn EnthusiastsFamilies With Older Children Interested In History And Exploration

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

The Long Neck Inn

Stay in the beautifully renovated former giraffe barn.

Abandoned Animal Enclosures

Explore the many remaining structures, such as the rhino house, giraffe barn remnants, and various cages.

Paved Walkways

Follow the original 3.5 miles of paved paths that once guided zoo visitors.

Original Signage

Discover old zoo signs and memorabilia that offer glimpses into the past.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Ant

Domestic Cat

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Book in advance

Accommodations, especially at The Long Neck Inn and glamping sites, can be popular, so reserve your stay well ahead of time.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on paved paths, but also potentially on uneven, overgrown terrain when exploring the abandoned enclosures.

Bring a camera

The decaying structures and natural reclamation make for incredibly photogenic scenes.

Pack layers

The Catskill Mountains weather can change quickly, so be prepared for varying temperatures.

Carry water and snacks

While amenities are available at the inn, exploring the extensive grounds means you'll want refreshments on hand.

Respect the site

This is a historic property. Do not disturb the structures or leave any trash. Access to certain areas might be restricted for safety; please adhere to all guidelines.

Frequently asked questions

: No, The Old Game Farm closed as a zoo in 2006. It is no longer an active zoo, and the exotic animals were relocated. The property now offers unique accommodations at The Long Neck Inn and glamping sites, where guests can explore the remnants of the former zoo grounds. There are, however, a few farm animals like cows, goats, and chickens on the property.
: Access to explore The Old Game Farm's abandoned zoo grounds is generally limited to guests staying at The Long Neck Inn or one of its glamping sites. However, self-guided tours may be available for non-guests by appointment and donation; it is recommended to check their official website for current policies and to schedule in advance.
: The Old Game Farm offers two main types of accommodation: The Long Neck Inn, which is a boutique hotel located in the renovated former giraffe barn, and several upscale glamping sites for a unique outdoor experience. Both options provide exclusive access to explore the historic property.