Exploring Arkansas: Ozark safari offers unique experience

Watch Story: Ozark safari offers unique experience KTHV

Laura Monteverdi, THV11 7:56 p.m. CDT July 13, 2015

(Photo: THV1)

EUREKA SPRINGS, Ark. (KTHV) - If you can't afford a trip to Africa this summer, there's a place you can get a similar experience right here in Arkansas. If you're looking for a tranquil getaway, chances are you won't find it at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs. "People, I think, have not known what to expect before they've came!" said Emily McCormack, Animal Curator at Turpentine Creek.

 

However, what you will find is unlike anything else in the Natural State. "This is a little piece of Africa in the Ozarks!" said McCormack. One of the largest cat rescue facilities in the nation, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is home to nearly 100 big cats, all with a new lease on life. "All of the cats have been rescued from people that tried to own them as a pet, breeding facilities that were shut down, privately owned zoos," said McCormack. "Most of the cats would have been euthanized if we didn't rescue them."

Turpentine Creek is a sanctuary for endangered animals, made possible by those who frequent the refuge. "We thrive on people coming through and getting educated about sanctuaries and why it is necessary to be here and just strict donations [and] staying in our lodging is a huge portion of our revenue," said McCormack.

From safari lodges to a treetop escape, guests can actually spend the night at the refuge--lions and tigers just feet from their bedroom window. "A lot of the guest books, if you look through them it's, their second and third time here because it's such a neat place to come and stay in Eureka Springs," said McCormack.

Surrounded by incredible views of the Ozarks, each of the rooms is designed to make guests feel like they've been transported to a new world. The noises outside only add to the ambiance. "When you're staying here you can listen to the lions caroling all night. Some of the tigers will start talking here and there. Our leopards are pretty vocal at night!" said McCormack. "I think we've had a few people that have been nervous, woken up during the night and maybe fell asleep and forgot [and] all of a sudden you hear these lions caroling!" laughed McCormack.

The nightly rate for a room is $150. Guests can also stay on the refuge in an RV for $25 per night.
A hundred percent of the proceeds from lodging go back to the refuge for the care of the animals.

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