Over 200 animals and birds roam freely and in good care at Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo in Forked River, which, as its name suggests, is a sanctuary for animals in need. Popcorn Park is different from most zoos in New Jersey— the Associated Humane Societies oversees the zoo, and it’s a haven for rescued animals from desperate circumstances or death. Kids learn about these abandoned animals, help out around the zoo, and even adopt the animals. This smaller-sized New Jersey zoo was on my family’s bucket list, and we were excited to visit on a trip home from Storybook Land. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)
5 Things To Know About Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo
First things first, Popcorn Park Zoo’s history
It all began in 1977 when the zookeepers rescued and treated a raccoon caught in a leg-hold trap and gave him a home for life as he could never be released and survive. Soon after, Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo became a permanent home to all types of animals. You will see exotics, wildlife, farm animals, and birds who suffered abandonment, cruelty, injury, illness, handicap, exploitation, old age, or who would not be able to return to the wild safely.
You can get through the park pretty quickly
Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo is a smaller zoo, making it easily walkable for all ages. You should be able to see every animal, from American black bears and Bengal tigers to monkeys and wallabies, in about an hour (or less, if needed). Stop by each area to spend time seeing the exotics with the big cats and monkeys, native wildlife like the bears and deer, and my kids’ favorite—the farm animals featuring cows, goats, and llamas. And if you’ve been to Popcorn Park and are looking to feed some of the animals with popcorn (a practice they allowed in the past), they’ve since suspended it due to specialized diets and health concerns.
Consider sponsoring an animal
After spending time with the zoo residents, consider helping one or two through the Popcorn Park Wildlife Club sponsorship program or make a direct donation to the Popcorn Park Zoological Society. Sponsorship provides food and medical attention to the animal you choose, and each month, your family will receive a check-in on the animal. These sponsorships also give you great gift ideas for your animal-loving child.
Or, perhaps adopting a ‘pet’
If you fall in love with an animal while you’re there, consider adoption. Popcorn Park has kittens, dogs, hamsters, and rabbits available for adoption, ready to find their new homes. Because these animals have already endured a great deal of suffering, the zoo prioritizes adopting them to loving and nurturing families who will give them a lot of attention and love.
No outside food is allowed at Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo
Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, with early closings on holidays (and admission into the park stops at 3:30 PM). Admission fees ($10 per adult, $5 for children 3-11, and children under 3 are free) help support the animals. Like most zoos, Popcorn Park doesn’t allow outside food on the property, but it does sell cold drinks and ice cream. If that’s not enough for your family, be sure to pack an easy grab-and-go snack or lunch and plan to eat it in your car or a nearby park. We parked and ate in our car in the parking lot near the main road, then took a quick walk down a dirt path to enter the park. I also recommend applying sunscreen and wearing a hat, as most of the park is not shaded.
To learn more about Popcorn Park Zoo, visit their website, Instagram, and Facebook.
Popcorn Park Zoo
1 Humane Way
Forked River, NJ 08731
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