ZooMaryland, US

Plumpton Park Zoo

Plumpton Park Zoo offers an intimate wildlife experience with a strong focus on rescue and education.

About

Plumpton Park Zoo offers an intimate wildlife experience with a strong focus on rescue and education.

Nestled in Rising Sun, Maryland, along the picturesque Mason-Dixon Scenic Byway, Plumpton Park Zoo is a non-profit zoological facility providing a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Housing over 180 exotic animals, many of whom are rescues, the zoo is renowned for its personal atmosphere, allowing for closer connections with its diverse residents. It stands out as a sanctuary that not only educates the public but also provides a loving, forever home for animals in need.

The zoo boasts an impressive array of animals, from majestic big cats like Siberian and White Bengal Tigers, and even White Lions, to impressive ungulates such as giraffes, zebras, and American bison. Visitors can delight in meeting fan favorites like Jimmie the Giraffe, often available for interactive feeding sessions, and observe playful primates like Siamang Gibbons and White-faced Capuchin Monkeys. The petting zoo offers hands-on encounters with friendly goats, sheep, and alpacas, while free-roaming peacocks add bursts of color to the scenic grounds. The reptile house, home to species like African Sulcata and Aldabra Giant Tortoises, adds another layer of discovery.

Visiting Plumpton Park Zoo is more than just a day out; it's an opportunity to support animal welfare and conservation efforts. Its smaller scale provides a relaxed, family-friendly environment, perfect for children to learn about the animal kingdom and the importance of responsible animal care. With picnic areas, a playground, and even miniature golf on-site, the zoo encourages a full day of exploration and enjoyment, leaving visitors with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for wildlife. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Plumpton Park Zoo was founded in 1985 by Edward Plumstead on his family estate in Rising Sun, Maryland. What began as a personal collection of deer and other domestic animals quickly grew, leading Plumstead to open the facility to the public in 1986. The zoo officially achieved non-profit 501(c)(3) status in December 1988, which further solidified its commitment to educational and recreational objectives while ensuring the welfare of its animal collection. While the zoo faced temporary closure in 2010 due to financial and regulatory challenges, it successfully reopened later that same year under new ownership, continuing its mission as a beloved community resource.

What to do here

Engage in the interactive giraffe feeding sessions, spend time at the petting zoo, explore the reptile house, and watch for black bears and wolves in their spacious enclosures. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shaded areas, and children can burn off energy at the playground. The zoo also hosts various special events throughout the year.

Seasonal info

Plumpton Park Zoo offers unique seasonal events. "Zoo Lights" in December transforms the zoo into a festive wonderland with light displays and special night tiger feedings. Spring and Fall often feature "Brew at the Zoo" events for adults.

Accessibility

The zoo is ADA Accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit for guests with mobility challenges. Free parking is available, and guide and assistance dogs are welcome; visitors should inform the admissions office upon arrival.

Don't miss

Don't miss Jimmie the Giraffe, the impressive Siberian and White Bengal Tigers, the playful Siamang Gibbons, and the always-popular petting zoo where you can interact with goats, sheep, and alpacas. The free-roaming peacocks are also a charming sight.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Check Hours and Events Online

Always visit the official Plumpton Park Zoo website before your trip to confirm current operating hours, admission rates, and any special events or closures.

Bring Lunch and Snacks

While there are concession options and vending machines, bringing your own lunch and snacks is recommended, as picnic areas are plentiful and can enhance your visit.

Purchase Feed Cups

To enhance your experience, buy feed cups at the entrance. This allows for direct interaction with animals in the petting zoo and with Jimmie the Giraffe during designated feeding times.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo features stroller-friendly pathways, but you'll be doing a fair amount of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.

Look for Free-Roaming Peacocks

Keep an eye out for the zoo's resident peacocks, which often roam freely throughout the grounds, adding an unexpected and beautiful element to your visit.

Consider Seasonal Events

If visiting in winter, plan around "Zoo Lights" for a unique evening experience with special light displays and even night tiger feedings.

Frequently asked questions

: Visitors often highlight Jimmie the Giraffe, the Siberian and White Bengal Tigers, the American Black Bears, and the variety of animals in the interactive petting zoo as must-see attractions at Plumpton Park Zoo. The free-roaming peacocks also add a unique charm to the experience.
: Yes, Plumpton Park Zoo provides several interactive opportunities. Daily giraffe feeding sessions allow guests to feed Jimmie the Giraffe. The petting zoo also offers hands-on encounters with animals like goats, sheep, and alpacas, often with opportunities to purchase feed cups.
: Plumpton Park Zoo is open seven days a week. General opening hours are typically 10 AM to 5 PM, extending to 9 AM to 6 PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The last admission is usually one hour before closing. The zoo is generally closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas Days.