Play With Wolves At Shadowland Foundation, Then Explore The Prime Desert Woodland Preserve In Southern California
By Natasha Kayes|Published October 11, 2022
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Natasha Kayes
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I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
Children are naturally curious and drawn to animals of all kinds. Adults seek understanding and meaning through the natural world. Truthfully, few things are both as thrilling and grounding as communing with nature. It is wonderful to have a safe and beautiful place to learn and interact with animals, as well as an opportunity to be immersed in natural landscapes. Did you know that you can actually play with wolves in Southern California? This experience is paired nicely with a stroll through a beautiful desert preserve.
Shadowland Foundation has as its mission, "Educate not eradicate." It was founded to expel myths and misconceptions about wolves and to help people, especially children, learn and appreciate these animals.
The ranch, known as "Freedom," is home to a pack of wolves where adults and children alike are welcomed to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.
Wolves are not bred or rescued by the foundation. The wolves' original line began with rescues from Alaska, but this pack was purposely raised in captivity with the purpose of providing this educational and interactive experience.
In addition to learning about the physical traits of wolves and their dynamics as a pack, visitors to Freedom ranch are given time to play with and take fun photos with the wolves.
The grounds surrounding this foundation are more than just a beautiful home to a pack of wolves. This 11-acre ranch is also a stunning venue available for parties, weddings, conferences, charity events, etc. There is plenty of parking, a lovely gazebo, a big red barn, and even RV access.
Located about 15 minutes away from the Shadowland Foundation's ranch is another opportunity to visit and learn about nature - the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve. After playing with wolves, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through this scenic desert landscape.
This facility is dedicated to preserving the unique beauty of what is known as the High Desert in Southern California, with its rich variety of indigenous trees, plants, and flowers.
With flat trails throughout the preserve, it is a perfect place to relax, learn, and catch a glimpse of jackrabbits and other desert-dwelling wildlife creatures.
Step inside the Interpretive Center to learn more about local flora and fauna through a variety of educational programs, workshops, and hands-on activities, such as a petroglyph and pictograph wall, an excavation station, and a touch table filled with animal hides, antlers, and horns.
