Some of these places are more popular than others, but they are still likely to be less crowded than your local zoo. Additionally, many of these spots help to rescue and rehabilitate animals, or allow them to roam free of cages; other spots are wildlife preserves or sanctuaries. You'll get to interact closely with animals, outside the typical zoo environment. True animal lovers will savor these unique experiences! I'll start with more well known areas and then move into the more obscure.

1. Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, Forked River

Established in 1977, this non-profit animal sanctuary aims to provide "a refuge for abandoned, injured, ill, exploited, abused or elderly wildlife, birds, exotic and farm animals." They host great charity events all year long, like Rock2Adopt, and even allow you to feed certain animals!

2. Lakota Wolf Preserve, Columbia

Another incredible non-profit, Lakota allows tours by appointment only. While you cannot handle the wolves, you can enjoy them up close in their natural environment. Photography is allowed and encouraged!

3. Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park

This stunning state park is known for its native population of Red Foxes. If you spend enough time at the park, you'll likely be afforded incredible photo opportunities. Admission is only $6 per car for New Jersey residents, and it is only charged between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Please remember to be respectful of these wild animals and their habitat.

4. Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford

This 171-acre refuge includes the Woodford Nature Center, an outdoor housing area with more than 60 native residents, and a wildlife rehabilitation hospital. The hospital cares for more than 4000 injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife animals each year! Admission is only $5 for adults, and allows you to access the nature center, reptile room and wildlife trails.

5. Funny Farm Rescue Animal Sanctuary, Mays Landing

Funny Farm Rescue has created a home for unwanted farm animals, domesticated animals and animals with special needs to live out their natural lives. Visiting hours are currently Tuesdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Enjoy feedings up close at 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

6. Lorrimer Nature Sanctuary, Franklin Lakes

Manged by the New Jersey Audubon Society, this nature sanctuary and center offers self guided tours and interactive exhibits from Wednesday to Sunday.

7. Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville

This massive sanctuary spans nearly 300 acres and is home to over 200 species. Trails are open seven days a week from dawn until dusk, the visitor center is open from Tuesday through Sunday. There are three distinct trails offering woodland, meadow and floodplain wildlife including foxes, woodpeckers, deer, ducks and the occasional bear.

8. The Raptor Trust, Millington

The Raptor Trust is one of the foremost wild bird rehabilitation centers in the United States. The Trust includes a state-of-the-art hospital, quality exterior housing for several hundred birds, and an education center. Open year-round, hours are seasonal and admission is free. However, a modest $2 donation is requested.

9. Whittemore Wildlife Sanctuary, Oldwick

This sanctuary offers a wide selection of wildlife, particularly the reptile and avian varieties. Enjoy eleven miles of trails, seven days a week! Bring your dog, or even your horse! This non-profit sanctuary offers numerous educational programs for children and families.

10. The Barnyard Sanctuary, Columbia

Open to the public seven days a week, hours are limited and tours are available by appointment only. The sanctuary is home to dozens of displaced and abandoned farm animals, many of whom are available for adoption. Enjoy donkeys, ducks, sheep, pigs, horses, cows, goats and more!

A brief, heartwarming video about The Barnyard Sanctuary:

These are some of my favorite places to enjoy, and I hope you will too! They are all non-profit organizations and many are in need of volunteers. If you have the time, considering working with the animals first-hand at one of these incredible places. You may also be interested in no-kill shelters and rescues including the Oasis Animal Sanctuary, Wild Baby Rescue, Tabby's Place, RBARI, St. Hubert's and The Last Resort Animal Rescue. If you're tight on time, share this post and raise awareness. Also, please share your favorite spots to get up-close with animals in the comments.