Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary | Prescott

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary – In-Depth Overview

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, located in Prescott, Arizona, is a unique and deeply mission-driven non-profit wildlife refuge. It is not a typical zoo focused on entertainment but rather a sanctuary that emphasizes conservation, education, and the ethical treatment of animals. It offers a profound connection between visitors and wildlife, especially animals that, for various reasons, cannot return to the wild.

📜 Origins and Philosophy

Founded in 1985 under the name Prescott Animal Park, the sanctuary was officially renamed Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in 1988. The name change reflected a broader, more purposeful commitment: to preserve and protect wildlife while fostering an understanding of the natural world. Located on approximately 10 acres of land adjacent to Willow Lake, the sanctuary exists not only to exhibit animals but also to provide lifelong refuge to animals that are injured, orphaned, abandoned, or otherwise non-releasable.

Their motto, “Conservation through Education,” defines their core mission-to protect animals and habitats by nurturing public awareness and advocacy through hands-on educational experiences.

🐾 Animal Residents and Exhibits

The sanctuary is home to over 175–200 animals, nearly all of which are rescues. These include native Arizonan species as well as exotic animals that were confiscated or surrendered due to illegal ownership, injury, or the exotic pet trade.

Key Animal Highlights:

Mexican Gray Wolves: Endangered species participating in the Species Survival Plan (SSP). These wolves are kept in enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats, and only a part are visible to the public to reduce stress.

Mountain Lion & Black Bear: Both are rescues and cannot be released due to early human imprinting or injury. They live in large, shaded habitats with natural elements and hideouts.

Reptile House: Features species such as:

13-foot Burmese Python

Gila Monsters

Green Iguanas, Skinks, Geckos, and Monitor Lizards

Native and non-native snakes displayed in terrariums designed to replicate their natural ecosystems.

Tarantula Grotto: One of the largest public spider displays in the Southwestern United States, with dozens of tarantulas, as well as scorpions and beetles. It provides insight into misunderstood invertebrates.

Wallaby Walkabout: A semi-open enclosure where guests can walk through and observe or interact with wallabies in a controlled, calm setting.

Farm Animal Encounter (Kiwanis Korner): A petting and grooming area for goats, sheep, miniature donkeys, and pigs-especially popular with younger children.

Birds of Prey: Including hawks, owls, and falcons that cannot fly due to wing damage or human habituation. These birds participate in educational programs and live in aviaries built for stimulation and safety.

🌿 Enclosures and Habitat Design

Unlike conventional zoo displays, Heritage Park provides naturalistic and enriched enclosures that allow animals privacy, movement, and mental stimulation. Many enclosures include:

Rocks and logs for climbing or hiding

Pools or water features

Off-display areas so animals can retreat from public view

Rotational enrichment tools such as puzzle feeders and toys

The sanctuary maintains a low-stress, animal-first philosophy, ensuring that the welfare of each animal is prioritized over public access or visibility.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Visitor Features & Family Amenities

Playgrounds and Picnic Areas: There are two shaded playgrounds and several picnic spots where families can relax. These areas are spread out to offer breaks between animal zones.

Rattlesnake Jake’s Jungle Splash: A small seasonal splash pad operating during summer months (typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), ideal for cooling off during hot Arizona days. It features soft foam flooring, water jets, and jungle-themed decor.

Gift Shop: Offers educational toys, books, souvenirs, and items that support local artisans and the sanctuary’s fundraising efforts.

🎓 Education and Community Programs

Education is a pillar of the sanctuary’s work. Programs are designed to cultivate curiosity and responsibility in all age groups.

ZooCamp: Seasonal day camps for children that include hands-on animal care, science education, crafts, and games.

ZooLittles: A program for preschool-aged children with animal-themed stories, crafts, and guided animal encounters.

ZooTeens: A volunteer youth program for ages 13–18, providing mentorship and experience in animal care, public speaking, and conservation education.

Docent Program: Trains adults to become volunteer educators, guiding tours and staffing education stations.

School and Group Tours: The sanctuary welcomes classes for customized tours that align with curriculum standards in science and ecology.

🎉 Annual Events

Throughout the year, Heritage Park hosts themed events to attract families and supporters while promoting animal education:

Zoofest (Spring): An animal celebration with enrichment demonstrations, games, and keeper talks.

Eggstravaganza (Easter): A family-friendly egg hunt and spring celebration.

Boo at the Zoo (October): Halloween-themed night visits with decorations, costumes, and treat stations.

Holiday Lights (December): Evening strolls through the sanctuary with seasonal lights and decorations, some with hot cocoa and festive activities.

🏕️ Rentals and Private Events

The sanctuary provides event spaces for:

Birthday parties

Corporate gatherings

Weddings and reunions

Facilities include the Pence Pavilion, Kiwanis Ramada, and the Event Center, each offering different sizes and amenities (shade, restrooms, seating, etc.).

💸 Admission, Membership, and Support

General Admission (as of 2025):

Adults: $16

Seniors, Students, Military: $15

Children (ages 3–12): $12

Under 3: Free

Memberships include:

Unlimited visits for a year

Discounts on camps, gift shop purchases, and special events

Invitations to members-only events

Support Options:

One-time and recurring donations

Animal sponsorship ("Adopt an Animal" program)

Volunteering (animal care, landscaping, education, guest services)

📍 Location and Accessibility

Address: 1403 Heritage Park Road, Prescott, AZ 86301
Easily accessible from Willow Creek Road, across from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Hours: Open 365 days/year. Standard hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some seasonal changes for summer or special events.

Parking: Free, ample parking with accessible spaces.

Accessibility: Most paths are wide and paved or compacted, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Some enclosures are on mild inclines.

🔍 Summary

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is not just a destination-it’s a mission-driven haven for wildlife. What makes it special is its authenticity: every animal has a story, every enclosure is purposefully designed for welfare, and every program exists to foster understanding between humans and the natural world.

It’s ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, educators, and ethical travelers seeking a meaningful encounter with animals. Whether through a quiet visit, an educational class, or a joyful family event, this sanctuary delivers a heartfelt experience grounded in compassion, science, and community values.