There are few more enjoyable ways to spend a day than visiting one of New Jersey’s zoos, and from Turtle Back Zoo to the Cape May Zoo there is no shortage of places to see animals. However, located in the Pine Barrens is one zoo that even the most dedicated animal lover might have never heard of. Popcorn Park Animal Refuge is a hidden Zoo in New Jersey that has one big unique thing about it – it’s an animal rescue and clinic, and every permanent resident of its zoo is an animal that was deemed unreleasable. It serves as a farm rescue, so you’ll definitely see some very familiar animals, but you’ll also see some of the famous zoo animals like big cats – as well as a few surprises. So gather up all your animal-lover friends and pay a visit – you’ll be helping a good cause in the process.

While driving through the Pine Barrens, keep an eye out for this unique sign - it's letting you know you're on the path to animal adventure!
Podrozniczka60/TripAdvisor
This is a working animal sanctuary, so you'll find many animals from local farms who have retired here. You might be able to get an up-close encounter!
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge/Facebook
But this is also a zoo for exotic animals, and you'll find impressive structures like this peacock haven.
Highflyer15/TripAdvisor
All the animals have expansive living quarters and plenty of enrichment, such as this lynx who's ready to go exploring.
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge/Facebook

Related Stories

This Zoo In New Jersey Is Also A Restaurant And It's Fun For The Whole Family

This Zoo In New Jersey Is Also A Restaurant And It's Fun For The Whole Family

 There’s A Goat Farm In New Jersey And You’re Going To Love It

There’s A Goat Farm In New Jersey And You’re Going To Love It

 Explore A Drive Through Tulip Trail At Dalton Farms In New Jersey

Explore A Drive Through Tulip Trail At Dalton Farms In New Jersey
The animals at the zoo range from small, like this tiny monkey...
Pat H/TripAdvisor
To the king of the jungle! Yes, you'll find lions, tigers (and bears) here. All of them have been rehabbed from injuries or other circumstances that made them unreleasable, and they're living peacefully here.
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge/Facebook
The herbivores have their fun too - many of them share living quarters, which can result in some unexpected friendships like this tortoise and capybara.
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge/Facebook
When the holidays roll around at the zoo, the animals get in on the festive spirit as well, so it's the perfect time to visit this year-round zoo.
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge/Facebook

Have you been to the Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Forked River? Let us know what you thought of this hidden zoo in New Jersey in the comments section. If you’re interested in paying a visit, make sure to visit the website and Facebook page to learn about all the residents. While you’re in the area, why not have lunch at this hidden gem restaurant?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore New Jersey

Featured Addresses
Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, 1 Humane Way, Forked River, NJ 08731, USA