The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of the world's largest and most impactful wildlife rescue organizations, operating multiple Colorado facilities encompassing over 40,000 acres dedicated to rehabilitating captive-born exotic animals. The flagship Keenesburg sanctuary, located about an hour northeast of Denver, spans 1,450 acres and is home to more than 950 lions, tigers, bears, wolves, jaguars, cheetahs, leopards, and mustangs, all rescued from roadside zoos, private homes, and other unsuitable situations. Visitors explore the sanctuary via 1.5 miles of elevated walkways, guided tours, audio experiences, and special events such as sunset visits and safari dinners. A second refuge in Springfield covers 10,000 acres, while the Horse Refuge near Craig encompasses 30,000 acres. As a leader in addressing the captive wildlife crisis, the sanctuary combines rescue operations with robust public education, helping families gain a profound understanding of animal welfare and conservation.
