Did you know you don't have to travel far to see some exotic creatures living in our state? In some cases, you can take a short walk outside and spot a few lurking about behind bushes and trees. However, if you're looking to spot some really exotic animals, you'll have to head out to a zoo or animal sanctuary! One of the more unique places to visit here in Arizona is the Out of Africa Wildlife Park, located in Camp Verde.

Ever since it opened to the public in 2005, the park's 104 acres showcases the animals at their best. You'll find moments of them interacting with each other, other animals, their caretakers, and, on occasion, you! Let's take a look at some of the park's features.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is an adventure waiting to happen. Located 1.5 hours from Phoenix in Camp Verde, the park brings you in contact with exotic wildlife while also acting as a sanctuary for exotic animals.

The animals here have a varied history. Some are former circus performers and others, such as the Bengal tiger Vista, were illegally living in cages in residential homes. There's no doubt they are probably happy to be living in a place they can roam.

One of the main attractions here are the safari rides you can take around the park to the animals interact in a "natural" environment.

Sometimes that experience is an even a closer one than you would expect!

You may even get "kissed" by a giraffe while on this safari ride!

The wildlife park has plenty of other ways to enjoy the area and interact with the animals while still getting a mild adrenaline rush. You can take a zipline through a portion of the park.

You can get a chance to learn about, pet, and even get a photo with many of the animals. They also offer animal shows, such as the Tiger Splash, where you watch tigers engage in their predatory instincts while playing with their caretakers.

It's a bit like playing with your cat at home but with muscles and jaws that could crush you!

You can even spend the night here by camping in the summer.

You can sleep under the stars a short distance from the lions, tigers, and bears, oh my! Enjoy a campfire to roast over your campfire, and find out what the park is like after hours.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is located at 3505 State Route 260 in Camp Verde. It is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. More details can be found on their website, www.outofafricapark.com.

Want to check out more incredible places to see exotic animals and wildlife indigenous to Arizona? Check out our article, 8 Little Known Places In Arizona Where Animal Lovers Should Go.