The Gentry Safari is a “unique” place. I’ve heard that over the years, they have had their share of battles with animal rights groups and the like. What I find interesting is how the place is run. It seems like everything is very casual. I’ve driven through the entire place several times and not once encountered anyone who seemed to work there. It’s almost like once you drive through the gate, you are on your own. My wife (who has been going there since she was a kid) swears that one time when she was there years ago, there was a bear roaming free within the fence. I think though that the open “safari” feeling is what makes the place what it is.

As far as the treatment of the animals, I really don’t like to see the animals that are confined to the really small cages, especially the large cats. Everything always looks fairly healthy and well-fed, especially the animals that roam free and are able to get goodies from all of the patrons. That said, we found it better to go in the morning, before all of the animals have been fed all day and are full and lazy and not wanting to roam around.

Their disclaimer kills me, something like “Don’t give the animals the opportunity to harm you”. Could they be more vague and ambiguous?

I do know this, our toddler loves that place, and we have a blast going there. We haven’t been since last summer, and he still brings it up every once in a while.

Hope that helps.