Exploring Alamance: The Animal Park

Are you looking for something fun to do off-campus? Maybe something insta-worthy that isn’t a fall-themed pumpkin patch or an activity requiring an hour-long drive? Just 25 minutes from Elon’s campus sits the Animal Park at the Conservators Center. With tours on weekends, you can see everything from lions to tigers to some adorable wolf puppies, and so much more. 

Lions lounging around together high up in makeshift hammocks will roll over to say hello. The wolf pack comes running to the fence to greet you with as much enthusiasm as your own dog when you open the door. 

While you’re on tour, you will learn the personal story of each individual animal, hear about their species and observe how the center has created an environment for every species to thrive. 

The center serves partially as a retirement destination for older zoo animals to live out the rest of their days. Some have come from confiscations from other wildlife facilities by government agencies, others were born at the center to cats who arrive already pregnant and many have been intentionally acquired.  

With 70 animals, 21 different species and a ton of staff and volunteers, the center has plenty of fun and educational opportunities for every visitor. There is also an opportunity to “adopt” one of the animals after going through a ‘Meet you Match’ session. With this financial commitment comes everything from unlimited free access to the park, to the ability to safely spend time with your new creature.

According to Executive Director Mindy Stinner, the center has a close relationship with Elon as well. They have collaborated with multiple departments on campus and work directly with Elon Academy. From linguistics research on nonprofits to student-written publications, the center’s relationship with the Elon community is more than just a place for students to visit and see some interesting wildlife.