Safari North Wildlife Park | Brainerd

Safari North Wildlife Park, located in Brainerd, Minnesota, is a 43-acre family-oriented wildlife park that offers a unique blend of exotic animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and amusement activities. Established in 2014 by Kevin and Kelly Vogel, it has grown into one of the premier wildlife destinations in the region, with a mission centered on education, conservation, and immersive visitor engagement.

Animal Exhibits and Diversity

Safari North is home to over 140 species representing six continents, housed in naturalistic enclosures designed to simulate the animals’ native habitats as closely as possible. The park’s diverse collection includes a wide array of mammals, birds, reptiles, and endangered species.

Mammals: Visitors encounter large carnivores such as lions, tigers, and sloth bears, alongside giraffes, zebras, lemurs, otters, and exotic small mammals. The park also features various primate species, providing insight into their behaviors and social structures.

Birds: The aviary contains vibrant species like macaws, flamingos, emus, and Eurasian eagle owls. The Parakeet Encounter allows visitors to walk through a spacious aviary filled with colorful parakeets that often perch on guests’ hands and shoulders.

Reptiles: The park showcases alligators and other reptiles, offering educational displays about these often misunderstood creatures.

Endangered Species: Safari North places special emphasis on the care and conservation of endangered animals, including white tigers and rare bird species, helping raise awareness of their plight in the wild.

Key Attractions and Interactive Experiences

The park is designed to provide more than just passive viewing of animals. It incorporates several immersive and interactive attractions that engage visitors directly:

Expedition Safari: A 10-acre, safari-style exhibit where visitors can experience African wildlife in a setting that mimics the savannah and woodland environments. This area features lions, hyenas, monkeys, and zebras, all viewable from a narrated train ride that adds educational commentary and storytelling.

Giraffe Feeding Station: One of the most popular interactive opportunities at Safari North is the chance to feed giraffes. Visitors can approach these gentle giants and offer food, learning about their habits and anatomy in the process.

Camel Rides: On weekends during September and October, guests can take camel rides, offering a unique experience to ride these desert-adapted animals often called “ships of the desert.”

Barnyard Petting Area: For younger visitors or those interested in farm animals, the barnyard section provides hands-on interaction with goats, sheep, cows, and other domestic animals, fostering a connection to agriculture and animal care.

Mining Sluice: This fun activity allows visitors of all ages to pan for gemstones, combining recreation with a hands-on educational experience related to geology and natural resources.

Laser Tag and Play Areas: For family fun beyond wildlife viewing, the park includes a laser tag arena and playground facilities, offering energetic indoor/outdoor games suitable for children and teens.

Conservation and Education

Safari North operates with a strong commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental education. Through interpretive signage, guided tours, and the narrated train ride, visitors gain a deeper understanding of animal biology, habitat preservation, and the challenges facing endangered species worldwide. The park partners with conservation organizations and often participates in breeding programs for threatened animals to help ensure their survival.

Staff members include trained animal care professionals and educators who provide informative talks and demonstrations throughout the day, enhancing the educational value of the visit.

Visitor Amenities and Services

The park is designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience with amenities such as:

Clean restrooms and picnic areas

On-site concessions offering snacks and beverages

Gift shop selling animal-themed merchandise and souvenirs

Wheelchair and stroller rentals to accommodate visitors with varying mobility needs

Operating daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the active season, Safari North is accessible to families, school groups, and tourists year-round, with seasonal events and special programs.

Location and Access

Situated at 8493 State Highway 371 in Brainerd, Minnesota, Safari North is conveniently located near other regional attractions, making it an ideal stop for visitors exploring the Brainerd Lakes area. Its proximity to natural landmarks and recreational sites enhances its appeal as part of a broader travel itinerary.

Summary

Safari North Wildlife Park offers a distinctive and memorable wildlife experience by combining exotic animal exhibits with interactive activities and educational programming. Its commitment to conservation, visitor engagement, and family-friendly amenities positions it as a top destination for those seeking to connect with animals from around the globe while enjoying hands-on, immersive learning opportunities. The park’s diverse offerings make it suitable for visitors of all ages, providing both entertainment and inspiration through its dedication to wildlife care and education.