From haunted hotels to Hobbit holes, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, offers a variety of unique lodging options (check out this blog post on hotel options in Eureka Springs). You can even have your own Africa in the Ozarks safari adventure at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge!
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Turpentine Creek is a Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries accredited facility that is home to 11 different species of animals…all of which have been rescued from bad situations (either from private ownership or use in the entertainment and tourism industries). The refuge offers daily educational tours which are a great activity if you’re visiting Eureka Springs. In addition, they also offer an added opportunity to stay right on site!
Room Types
Turpentine Creek offers several different room types:
Safari Suite: Hotel style, family and pet friendly suites with en suite bathroom (that sit right next to one of the lion enclosures!)
Tree House: Elevated, multi-level, family friendly (kids must be 5+ years old) room with en suite bathroom.
Glamping Tent: Family friendly tents with shared bathroom facilities.
Safari Lodges: Adults only area with en suite bathrooms and access to a fire pit and hot tub.
Camping
If you have your own camper or tent, no worries! Turpentine Creek offers options for you as well with RV hookups and shared bathroom facilities available.
Added Benefits
Staying at Turpentine Creek has added benefits as well! You’ll get access to the Discovery area (a self guided portion of the refuge) as often and long as you would like (during open hours). Your stay also includes one of the guided tram tours (you’ll still need to book a time in advance).
Probably the best added benefit though is just enjoying sitting on the porch in the evening/morning and listening to the lions. Did you know that they call to each other (carol) throughout the night? You’ll also be helping support the refuge so they can continue to help big cats in need.
Visiting Eureka Springs
Even though Turpentine Creek is located outside of town, you’ll still have easy access to all Eureka Springs has to offer. The facility is only about 7 miles south of downtown and visitors are given a code for the gates so that you can come and go whenever you please. For other things to do during your visit to Eureka Springs, check out this blog post.
