ZooOregon, US

Great Cats World Park

Great Cats World Park offers a unique opportunity to encounter some of the world's most magnificent felines up close.

About

Great Cats World Park offers a unique opportunity to encounter some of the world's most magnificent felines up close. Nestled in the Siskiyou Mountains of southern Oregon, this intimate facility provides an immersive and educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with over 50 individual cats representing 17 different species and subspecies. Unlike larger, more sprawling zoos, Great Cats World Park focuses entirely on its feline residents, offering guided tours where trainers interact with the cats, encouraging their natural behaviors like climbing, chasing, and even roaring, providing an active and engaging viewing experience. Visitors can witness the powerful grace of a lion, the striking beauty of a tiger, or the agile movements of a serval, often from a surprisingly close vantage point. The park prides itself on fostering an understanding and appreciation for these apex predators, many of whom are rare or endangered. Through educational demonstrations and knowledgeable guides, guests learn about the lives, habitats, and conservation challenges faced by these incredible animals. This privately owned park aims to raise public awareness and actively participates in preservation efforts through various captive breeding programs. It's a place where you can spend a couple of hours being captivated by the sheer presence of these big cats, gaining insights into their world, and leaving with a deeper respect for their vital role in the wild. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

The concept for Great Cats World Park originated in the autumn of 1983 when its founder developed a profound respect for cats after an encounter with a cougar at a roadside game farm. This passion evolved into a desire to create a facility that would foster public awareness and understanding of these majestic creatures. Construction of the park began in 2003 on a 10-acre site near the Redwood Highway, and it officially opened its doors to the public in May 2005. Since its opening, the park has welcomed over 120,000 visitors. The park emphasizes that many of its animals are rescues or from rehabilitation centers, with none taken directly from the wild.

What to do here

Participate in a guided tour for the most enriching experience. Beyond the tours, visitors can browse the gift shop for souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. The park also offers special photography appointments for those looking to capture professional-quality shots.

Seasonal info

Summer months can be hot in southern Oregon. The park provides some shade covers and misters near exhibits to help keep visitors cool. It's advisable to wear a hat and sunscreen during warmer seasons.

Accessibility

Great Cats World Park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis (photo ID required for rentals). Benches are placed in front of each animal enclosure, and enclosures are wide enough to accommodate viewing for larger groups.

Don't miss

The fully guided walking tours are a major highlight, where guides interact with the cats, sometimes feeding them to encourage them to come to the front of their enclosures.

This provides exceptional close-up views and photo opportunities.

Seeing the cats climb, play, and even roar is a memorable experience.

Wildlife you might spot

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

African Lion

Snap map for this place

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Good to know before you go

Opt for a Guided Tour

While self-guided tours are an option, the fully guided tours are highly recommended for their educational value and interactive animal demonstrations.

Arrive Early

Aim to arrive around the park's opening or early afternoon to catch a guided tour and ensure ample time to see all the cats before closing.

Stay Hydrated and Protected

Especially during summer, bring water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen, as the Oregon sun can be intense, though the park does offer some shaded areas and misters.

Bring Your Camera

The close-up views and active nature of the cats during tours offer fantastic photo opportunities. The park even offers special photography sessions.

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary by season, so consult the park's official website or call ahead to confirm current opening and closing times.

Visit the Gift Shop

Before or after your tour, explore the gift shop for unique souvenirs, snacks, and ice cream.

Frequently asked questions

: Great Cats World Park is home to over 50 individual cats representing 17 different species and subspecies. Visitors can expect to see a wide array of felines including African lions, various tiger species (including white tigers), leopards (such as the Amur leopard), jaguars, snow leopards, cougars, cheetahs, ocelots, servals, caracals, bobcats, lynx, fishing cats, and African wild cats.
: Yes, Great Cats World Park is wheelchair accessible. The park provides wheelchairs for rent at no cost (with a photo ID), and benches are available at each exhibit. The viewing areas are designed to be wide enough to allow good visibility for all guests.
: A guided tour at Great Cats World Park typically lasts around 90 minutes. However, to fully enjoy all the exhibits and ensure you see every animal, it's recommended to plan for a visit duration of about two hours. The park advises guests to arrive at least two hours before closing to make the most of their experience.