African Lion
ZooOregon, US
West Coast Game Park Safari
West Coast Game Park Safari, a once-popular walk-through safari park in Oregon, is permanently closed.
About
West Coast Game Park Safari, a once-popular walk-through safari park in Oregon, is permanently closed. The venue, which previously offered visitors close-up interactions with a variety of animals, ceased operations in May 2025 following a criminal investigation into animal neglect and other illegal activities. The owner, Brian Tenney, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including animal neglect and drug and gun offenses, in April 2026. Prior to its closure, West Coast Game Park Safari operated as a petting zoo and captive breeding program, where guests could observe and often interact with both exotic and domestic animals. The park was known for its "ambassador" animal programs, which allowed visitors to pet and feed a range of creatures, including deer, llamas, goats, and occasionally even young big cats like lion cubs or black jaguar cubs. While once advertised as an educational and interactive experience, the park had a long history of USDA violations related to animal welfare. The facility, spanning 21 acres, displayed over 75 different species, which at one point included African lions, snow leopards, Bengal tigers, bears, elk, camels, and chimpanzees. Visitors could walk freely through certain areas, feeding docile animals, while viewing more dangerous species through enclosures. The park's closure and the subsequent relocation of its more than 300 animals mark the end of an era for this roadside attraction. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.
West Coast Game Park Safari opened its doors in 1968, starting as a small roadside attraction featuring a few deer. Bob and Mary Tenney expanded the park over the years, turning it into a significant tourist attraction on the southern Oregon coast, eventually housing hundreds of exotic species. In 2009, ownership passed to their son, Brian Tenney. However, the park's operations came under increasing scrutiny over the years. West Coast Game Park Safari was not accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and had a documented history of failing to meet minimum standards for animal care under the federal Animal Welfare Act. Reports from the USDA detailed numerous violations, including inadequate veterinary care for animals with visible health issues, insufficient staffing, and unsafe handling practices, particularly with big cat cubs. In 2020, PETA listed it on their "Highway Hellholes: Roadside Zoos on the Blacklist". The facility was ultimately shut down on May 15, 2025, after a multi-agency raid led by the Oregon State Police. The investigation uncovered not only severe animal welfare concerns but also resulted in the discovery of firearms, methamphetamine, cocaine, and a significant amount of cash on the property. Over 300 animals were seized and relocated to various sanctuaries and rescue facilities across the country. Brian Tenney pleaded guilty to 47 criminal charges in April 2026, including animal neglect, drug, and racketeering charges.
What to do here
Visitors could feed deer, llamas, and goats, and potentially pet other animals during supervised interactions. Viewing exotic animals like lions, tigers, and bears was also part of the experience.
Seasonal info
Animal activity might have varied with the weather; seasonal events were not widely publicized as a core offering.
Accessibility
The park was advertised as wheelchair and walker accessible, and strollers and umbrellas were offered free of charge.
Don't miss
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The primary draw was direct animal interaction, particularly with younger animals and more docile species.
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The "ambassador" animal presentations were a central feature.
Wildlife you might spot
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Good to know before you go
Plan to arrive early to make the most of the day, especially if interactions were a priority.
Wear comfortable shoes, as it was a walk-through park.
Consider bringing cash for animal feed (if available).
Be prepared for varying weather conditions on the Oregon coast.
Check for any specific interaction schedules upon arrival.
Frequently asked questions
- No, the West Coast Game Park Safari permanently closed in May 2025 following a criminal investigation and seizure of its animals.
- Over 300 animals from the West Coast Game Park Safari were seized and relocated to various sanctuaries and rescue facilities across the country to receive proper care.
- The West Coast Game Park Safari was shut down due to a criminal investigation that uncovered multiple violations related to animal welfare, including neglect, as well as drug and gun-related offenses on the property. The owner pleaded guilty to 47 criminal charges in April 2026.
Recent snaps at this place
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