Folsom Zoo / Sanctuary
This is a small zoo which houses animals who have been rescued and cannot survive alone in the wild. There are quite a few animals to check out, as the enclosures do not have to fit things like elephants or giraffes. There are tigers, bears, wolves, bobcats, foxes and plenty of others, most of whom are native to this area. The paths are windy, so there seem to be new things to discover around each bend. On each enclosure are pictures and the names of each of the residents, a small paragraph about the circumstances in which they find themselves here, and sometimes some facts about that species. These stories help make a connection to each of the animals and add some education without sounding like a text book. The kids will also probably notice that there are free-range chickens that hang out near the entrance to the zoo, and several peacock who walk / fly about freely. The boisterous peacock call adds to the jungle-like effect within the zoo. Come early when the animals are awake and getting fed. And bring a few quarters and pennies to get your pressed penny souvenir on the way out!
A nice park with picnic tables under a shaded area is right next door to the zoo. If your kids get hyped from seeing so many cool animals, there is climbing equipment nearby to let them monkey around on. To read more about our visit here, you can read my blog.
