EXPLORE

There is a lot to explore in Northwest Arkansas. This corner of The Natural State is an outdoorsman’s paradise, featuring plentiful fishing spots in areas such as beautiful Beaver Lake, an abundance of state parks, adventurous camping and hiking, many water sports activities and scenic views to enjoy.

The area also offers always-popular arts and crafts fairs, festivals and events that bring together the community to celebrate all things NWA. Residents and visitors alike can also explore the extensive city park systems in Rogers and Lowell.

If you’re new to the area, you might notice that bike racks are a popular accessory in Northwest Arkansas. The area’s cycling and mountain biking trails have been honored among some of the best in the United States, and they are only getting better. In 2022, the region became the home base for the U.S. National Mountain Biking Team.

Scenic Highway 12 is a hotspot for motorcyclists to enjoy the thrilling curves and twists of the Ozarks. Whether you’re on two wheels or four, there’s always something for you to explore here.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

239 Turpentine Creek Lane

Eureka Springs, Arkansas 72632

Phone: 479-253-5841 www.tcwr.org

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) is a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) licensed, 509 (a) 2, as described in Section 501(c)(3), non-profit certified facility, dedicated to the rescue and care of exotic and native wildlife, focusing on Big Cats and bears. Our mission is to provide lifetime refuge for abandoned, abused, and neglected ‘Big Cats’, with emphasis on tigers, lions, leopards and cougars.

TCWR is regularly inspected by the USDA and houses an assortment of exotic and native animals, including lions, tigers, leopards, and other big cats as well as black bears, brown bears, and a variety of other animals. Animals are generally rescued from private owners who can no longer care from them, or they are confiscated by law enforcement authorities in cases of abuse and neglect and given a permanent home at TCWR.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a legitimate sanctuary and does not buy, sell, trade, breed, or loan-out any animals. All residents are given a high level of care in a safe environment throughout the remainder of their lives.

All animals are cared for by a permanent animal care staff of 7 biologists/zoologists, and a bi-annual intern staff of approximately 15-18 college/university graduates. The animals receive extended veterinary care by Dr. Kellyn Sweeley at the Refuge’s onsite Jackson Memorial Veterinary Hospital.

Education is at the heart of their mission, and they offer educators a unique learning opportunity. With the advent of the pandemic, and the big cats’ susceptibility to the virus, the Refuge adapted and now offers unique virtual learning opportunities for educators as well as for parents looking for ethical activities for their children.

You can take your experience to the next level by reserving one of ten unique lodging options. Go to sleep listening to lions’ carol and awaken to the rumble of tigers! From adult-only Safari Lodges to their pet-friendly family Suites and popular Tree House, there is g for everyone.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge operates primarily on admission, lodging, retail sales and donation revenue, and does not receive federal, city funding.