9 Little Known Places In Oklahoma Where Animal Lovers Should Go

Oklahoma has many unique sanctuaries for animals that are open to the public. From large zoos to small foundations, there are many caring people that devote their time to protecting animal welfare and educating others. Many of the places in this article accept donations and volunteers and they welcome the opportunity to have you visit their animals during operating hours. If you're looking for a fun activity, plan a day and visit one of these hidden gems for animal lovers in Oklahoma.

1. Endangered Ark Foundation: Hugo

North America's largest endangered Asian elephant herd is right here in Hugo, Oklahoma. You can experience a close encounter with the elephants and the staff will conduct interactive educational activities during your tour. Tours are only held on Fridays, Saturdays, and most Sundays. It's one of the most wonderful little-known Oklahoma zoos.

Read our full coverage to learn more about Endangered Ark Foundation.

2. Arbuckle Wilderness Park: Davis

Located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains and near Turner Falls, this wilderness park features a drive-thru safari road. Observe hundreds of exotic animals from your car and visit the petting zoo and reptile exhibit.

Read our full coverage to learn more about Arbuckle Wilderness Park.

3. Oklahoma Aquarium: Jenks

At the Oklahoma Aquarium you can see hundreds of aquatic animals and exhibits in a fun and educational way. You will also find one of the most unique shark exhibits in the world. Walk through a dome tunnel to see the largest bull sharks in captivity and don't forget to pet the stingrays. It's one of the most unique hidden gems in Oklahoma.

Read our full coverage to learn more about Oklahoma Aquarium.

4. Oklahoma City Zoo: Oklahoma City

As one of the little-known zoos in Oklahoma, you can still enjoy all the usual exhibits of a big zoo in Oklahoma City but without all the crowds. From adorable sea lions to ferocious lions, your day will be filled from start to finish admiring all the animals and visiting the exhibits.

Visit the Oklahoma City Zoo website to learn more.

5. Orr Family Farm: Oklahoma City

This family-friendly farm has so much to do and see, so plan enough time for your visit. Choose from train rides, corn mazes, fishing, hay rides, pedal cars, pony rides, and even a zip line. And if you want to spend more than a day here at one of the best hidden gems in Oklahoma and make a weekend of it, camping and glamping are available as well! Please note: they are closed in July and August to prepare for the fall season.

Visit the Orr Family Farm website to learn more.

6. Safari Joe's Exotic Wildlife Ranch: Adair

If you're looking for Oklahoma animal sanctuaries to visit, here's one. Safari Joe's is an exotic wildlife sanctuary housing over 250 animals at the park. Find many large cats (lions, tigers and leopards) reptiles and birds in the sanctuary. The sanctuary is on the same property as Safari Joe's H2O Water Park and seeing the animals is free with admission between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.

Visit the Safari Joe's Exotic Wildlife website to learn more.

7. Tiger Safari Zoological Park: Tuttle

Animal lover's will love this place as it's one of the most interactive hidden gems in Oklahoma when it comes to animals. Tiger Safari is a must-visit offering sunset safaris, overnight camping, and swimming with otters. You can even rent an authentic African village or a treehouse on the property for a one-of-a-kind overnight experience.

Read our full coverage to learn more about Tiger Safari.

8. Tulsa Zoo: Tulsa

Even though this zoo is well-known, it is worth mentioning as a favorite for animal lovers. In 2005, The Tulsa Zoo was named "Americas Favorite Zoo" by Microsoft Game Studios. Visitors of all ages enjoy the sea lions, monkeys, giraffes, zebras, penguins, bears, lions, tigers, and many more animals. They also have a train that circles the outer perimeter of the park, making two stops for your convenience. A carousel, playground, ice cream stand, and lunch pavilion are also located within the zoo.

Visit the Tulsa Zoo website to learn more.

9. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Indiahoma

Located in southwestern Oklahoma, this wildlife refuge protects many plants, birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals. Admission is free and you will find a visitor center and bookstore at the wildlife refuge. It's one of the most beautiful hidden gems for animal lovers in Oklahoma.

Read our full coverage to learn more about Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

What other places are must-visit hidden gems for animal lovers in Oklahoma? Let your fellow readers know in the comments!