There are few more enjoyable ways to spend a day than visiting one of New Jersey's zoos, and from Turtle Back Zoo to the Cape May Zoo there is no shortage of places to see animals. However, located in the Pine Barrens is one zoo that even the most dedicated animal lover might have never heard of. Popcorn Park Animal Refuge is a hidden Zoo in New Jersey that has one big unique thing about it - it's an animal rescue and clinic, and every permanent resident of its zoo is an animal that was deemed unreleasable. It serves as a farm rescue, so you'll definitely see some very familiar animals, but you'll also see some of the famous zoo animals like big cats - as well as a few surprises. So gather up all your animal-lover friends and pay a visit - you'll be helping a good cause in the process.
While driving through the Pine Barrens, keep an eye out for this unique sign - it's letting you know you're on the path to animal adventure!
This is a working animal sanctuary, so you'll find many animals from local farms who have retired here. You might be able to get an up-close encounter!
But this is also a zoo for exotic animals, and you'll find impressive structures like this peacock haven.
All the animals have expansive living quarters and plenty of enrichment, such as this lynx who's ready to go exploring.
The animals at the zoo range from small, like this tiny monkey...
To the king of the jungle! Yes, you'll find lions, tigers (and bears) here. All of them have been rehabbed from injuries or other circumstances that made them unreleasable, and they're living peacefully here.
The herbivores have their fun too - many of them share living quarters, which can result in some unexpected friendships like this tortoise and capybara.
When the holidays roll around at the zoo, the animals get in on the festive spirit as well, so it's the perfect time to visit this year-round zoo.
Have you been to the Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Forked River? Let us know what you thought of this hidden zoo in New Jersey in the comments section. If you're interested in paying a visit, make sure to visit the website and Facebook page to learn about all the residents. While you're in the area, why not have lunch at this hidden gem restaurant?
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