Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo
A rescue sanctuary in Dahlonega, GA, offering close encounters with diverse exotic and native animals, including white Siberian tigers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are active, beat the heat
Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo
Best Time
Animals are active, beat the heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rescue sanctuary in Dahlonega, GA, offering close encounters with diverse exotic and native animals, including white Siberian tigers.
"It's a rescue so it's not super manicured but it's loving and fun for all ages."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain is hilly and rocky; leave the heels at home!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and consider an umbrella for shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Siberian Tigers
Marvel at the majestic white Siberian tigers, a truly captivating sight.
Friendly Camel Encounters
Get up close and personal with a super friendly camel, a visitor favorite.
Interactive Animal Feeding
Purchase feed bags to interact with and feed many of the animals.
Diverse Rescue Animals
See a variety of well-cared-for rescued animals, from wolves to sloths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Prepare for a Rustic Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain is hilly and rocky; leave the heels at home!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and consider an umbrella for shade.
💰 Feed Bags for Fun
Purchase feed bags for $5 to interact with many of the animals.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening time.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain is hilly and rocky; leave the heels at home!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and consider an umbrella for shade.
💰 Feed Bags for Fun
Purchase feed bags for $5 to interact with many of the animals.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving at opening time.
🚗 Parking is Plentiful
Ample parking is available, making arrival hassle-free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Chestatee Wildlife Preserve for its friendly animals, interactive feeding opportunities, and fair prices. It's noted as a worthwhile, albeit rustic, rescue sanctuary where animals appear well-cared for. Some find the terrain challenging for strollers and recommend visiting during cooler parts of the day.
"This is a Very nice place to look at some animals the camel was our favorite he was super friendly they sold animal feeds to feed the animals for $5 a bag. it's a small walk though but it's worth it for the price! Also avoid bring a stroller it's a bit hilly and Rocky but other wise a great experience!"
Crystal Dee
"I read some of the reviews and was a little reluctant, but went anyway. We had a ball!! We got there an hour too early, but the owner let us in. If you’re expecting a Birmingham or Nashville zoo, this is not it. This is a rescue zoo, with some adorable animals, some you look at, some you can feed. She obviously cares for each animal, and it shows in their health. She was also kind enough to let me pet Sissi the sloth, even though we didn’t have an appointment scheduled. It was well worth the trip, and made our anniversary weekend that much more special!!"
Bethany Sanders
"Visited the preserve for a field trip. They had some cool animals but the walking terrain was a little rough. Overall, cool place to visit!"
Jessica Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in Dahlonega, Georgia. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to reach it. Many visitors report it's a scenic drive through the North Georgia mountains.
Yes, it's generally well-marked. Visitors often mention it as a stop on drives through the Dahlonega or North Georgia area.
Walking is the primary way to explore. Be prepared for a small, but hilly and rocky walk.
Dahlonega is known for its gold mining history and wineries. Helen, a Bavarian-themed town, is also a popular nearby destination.
Yes, GPS navigation systems are effective for reaching the preserve. Ensure your map app is updated.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically $15 for adults (ages 12 and older) and $10 for children (ages 11 and younger). Feed bags are an additional $5.
Advance booking is generally not required, and tickets can be purchased upon arrival. However, checking their official website or social media for any updates is always a good idea.
The preserve usually opens around 10 AM. It's best to check their official hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, visiting during weekdays or off-peak seasons might offer a less crowded experience. Keep an eye on their social media for potential promotions.
Yes, it's considered fun for all ages, from young children to adults. The interactive feeding and diverse animals appeal to everyone.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of exotic and native animals, including white Siberian tigers, wolves, bears, kangaroos, sloths, horses, zebras, and white bison. Many are rescued animals.
Yes, you can purchase feed bags for $5 to feed many of the animals, which is a highlight for many visitors.
The preserve has a hilly and rocky terrain, making it challenging for strollers. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Basic facilities are available, including clean porta-potty bathrooms. The preserve also provides umbrellas if you forget yours.
The zoo is on the smaller side, allowing for a more intimate and manageable visit, typically taking about an hour to go through.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within the preserve are limited. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan for a meal before or after your visit.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Many choose to have a picnic lunch, especially after exploring the preserve.
Dahlonega offers various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. You can also find eateries in nearby Helen.
Bags of animal feed are available for purchase for $5 each.
It's advisable to bring your own water, especially during warmer months, as hydration is important.
📸 📸 Photography
Every enclosure offers a chance for great photos, especially the white Siberian tigers and the friendly camel. Early morning light is often best.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the preserve management directly before flying a drone on the property.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be discouraged in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing animals from a distance, but a standard zoom lens is versatile for most shots.
The preserve's layout allows for relatively close viewing of many animals, making it easier to get good shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to dress kids in comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Bringing snacks and drinks is a good idea, and arriving early helps beat the heat and potential meltdowns. The staff are generally friendly and helpful, adding to a positive family experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Animal Lovers
Seeing animals like white Siberian tigers, wolves, and even a sloth up close is a profound experience. The opportunity to feed many of the animals creates an unparalleled connection. It's a chance to observe animal behavior in a more naturalistic setting, appreciating the efforts made to provide them with a good quality of life. The knowledgeable staff are often happy to share insights about the animals' backgrounds and needs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rescue Mission of Chestatee
This commitment to rescue means the preserve might not have the manicured appearance of a typical zoo. Instead, you'll find a more natural, albeit sometimes rugged, setting where the animals' well-being is the top priority. Visitors often praise the staff for their knowledge and genuine care for the animals, highlighting the preserve's dedication to its mission.
By visiting Chestatee, you're not only enjoying a day out but also contributing directly to a vital conservation effort. Your admission fees and any donations help fund the ongoing care and protection of these magnificent creatures.
Navigating the Terrain and Weather
During warmer months, particularly in the summer, the Georgia heat can be intense. Many visitors recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the peak heat and to see the animals when they are most active. Bringing sunscreen, hats, and even an umbrella for shade is highly advised. The preserve does offer umbrellas if you happen to forget yours, which is a thoughtful touch.
While the preserve is on the smaller side, the terrain means you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the unique experience of being up close with these incredible animals in a natural setting.
Interactive Animal Encounters
Visitors frequently mention the friendly camel as a standout for interaction, but many other animals are eager to accept treats from your hand. This direct engagement is a key part of what makes Chestatee special, offering a more personal experience than many larger zoos. It's a chance to see the animals' personalities shine through as they interact with visitors.
Remember to follow the guidance of the staff regarding which animals can be fed and how. This ensures both the safety of the visitors and the health of the animals. The interactive feeding is a fantastic way to make your visit engaging and educational.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit