Between Branson And Springfield Is Missouri's Family-Friendly Wildlife Refuge Where Big Cats Roam

Hidden in the hills of the Ozarks, about 15 miles north of Branson, Missouri, you'll find an unexpected wildlife encounter. The National Tiger Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that provides a safe and comfortable home for rescued exotic animals, and an opportunity for visitors to experience the majesty of big cats. Through the sanctuary's guided tours, families, animal lovers, and conservationists can get within feet of tigers, lions, and more, observing and feeding them through safe fences, and learning all about them from experts. Additionally, the organization teaches each guest about its mission, which is to "inspire a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the natural world." 

The National Tiger Sanctuary is a non-profit wildlife refuge, established in 2000 by founders Judy McGee and Keith Kink. After raising five baby tigers in a sanctuary in Arkansas, the couple felt the need to educate others about animal welfare and conservation. Beyond its stewardship, the sanctuary is a fun, family-friendly activity where the little ones won't have to wait around crowded enclosures to see the animals. Instead, the sanctuary offers a more intimate experience, where everyone gets to safely interact with its local residents in small groups. The tour guides also make the encounter memorable for everyone by answering questions and showing their kindness and care for all the rescues. Thousands have visited and left glowing Google Maps reviews resulting in an overall rating of 4.8 stars. One guest even commented that the rescue is the "coolest experience for any animal lover."

The sanctuary is located in Saddlebrooke, a village sandwiched between Branson and Springfield. Since both cities are less than 30 minutes away, it's a convenient spot from either location. It's open all year long from Wednesday to Sunday between 9:00am and 4:00pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Tour prices vary: ranging between $25 and $35 per person for the general encounter and up to $225 for the in-depth 3-hour tour.

Who would expect to see lions, tigers, ligers, and leopards playing in the Ozarks countryside? Yet, that's exactly what you'll find when you visit the National Tiger Sanctuary. Although tigers are the main draw, visitors can also meet other exotic cats and animals: about 10 lions, several mountain lions, and a cute black leopard full of personality named Midnight, all call this rescue home. More than that, there are wolves, foxes, steers, and horses here, too. For a cool experience, consider coming early to hear the lions caroling in the morning.

Unlike other sprawling wildlife refuges in the Midwest, the sanctuary sits on roughly 80 acres. This means you can get close to the animals when you tour this intimate facility. There is no direct contact with the big cats because they're behind two sets of fences, so everyone can visit the refuge knowing they'll be safe. The rescue offers several tours suitable for the entire family, even those with limited mobility. If you're traveling with kids or elderly relatives, opt for the Riding Safari Tour. Along with a tour guide, you'll cruise in a comfortable open-air tram and meet over 20 big cats, including Ty the rare tiliger, a cross between a liger and a tiger.

The 1-hour Feeding Tour is especially fun for kids. With an upgrade and 24-hour notice, families can feed raw meat to two tigers using secure tubes that span across the safety fences. This is the only facility in the country offering visitors this feeding experience. Lasting about 3.5 hours, the exclusive Behind the Scenes Tour is for the true animal lover and conservationist. Book 24 hours in advance and you'll get full access to the sanctuary's daily operations, plus meet big cats living in the Retirement Center, excluded from other tours. Want more animal encounters in Missouri? Check out Prairie State Park, an underrated preserve where bison roam. Alternatively, for more family fun, don't skip visiting Branson, the 'Las Vegas Of The Midwest.'