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
My daughter loved feeding the horses at Popcorn Park Zoo. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
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.
The Popcorn Park Zoo is walkable and family-friendly. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
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 to see 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.
Meet and learn how you can help animals like Jess at the Popcorn Park Zoo. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
Consider sponsoring an animal
Not only can kids visit with and feed the animals, but all of the zoo residents can be sponsored through the Popcorn Park Wildlife Club or by donating directly 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.
Littles especially will like the small size of Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
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 ready to find a new home. 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.
There are a variety of animals to see at the Popcorn Park Zoo. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
No outside food is allowed at Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo
Popcorn Park Refuge Zoo is open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM, with early closings on holidays (and admission into the park stops at 4:15 PM). Admissions fees ($10 per adult, $5 for kids 3-11, and kids under 3 are free) help support the animals. Like most zoos, Popcorn Park doesn’t allow outside food on the property but sells 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 their parking lot near the main road and took a quick walk down a dirt path to get into the park. I also recommend slathering on sunscreen and wearing a hat because most of the park is not in the shade.
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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