- Attraction: Bear Den Zoo & Petting Farm
- Location: 6831 Big Bend Rd, Waterford, WI 53185
- Industry: Zoo
- Website: https://www.beardenzoo.com
Step beyond the ordinary and discover wildlife encounters that will leave you speechless at Bear Den Zoo & Petting Farm.
This extraordinary family-owned attraction has been enchanting visitors for over 30 years with its remarkable collection of exotic animals alongside traditional farm favorites.
What started as a simple passion for animals has blossomed into a conservation-focused destination where you can actually hold baby lemurs, pet kangaroos, and create memories that typical zoos simply can’t offer.
Located on Big Bend Road in scenic Waterford, this intimate zoo proves that the most magical experiences often come in smaller packages. You’ll discover an incredible blend of creatures from different continents, all within a manageable space that takes about an hour to explore thoroughly while still allowing plenty of time for meaningful animal interactions.
Animal Encounters You Won’t Find Elsewhere
Baby Animal Experiences: The rotating collection of baby animals creates new surprises with every visit. You might find yourself cuddling with newborn kittens, holding fluffy chicks just days old, or snuggling baby bunnies that melt your heart instantly. The seasonal nature means each trip offers fresh discoveries – perhaps a three-day-old alpaca or adorable ducklings taking their first waddles.
Related
More in Wisconsin
This 117-Year-Old Wisconsin Orchard Serves Fresh Apple Cider Donuts Against The Stunning Baraboo Bluffs
Keep Exploring →Exotic Animal Interactions: The lemur encounters stand out as absolute visitor favorites. You’ll experience the incredible softness of these Madagascar natives up close, with many describing the interaction as worth the entire admission price. Ring-tailed lemurs offer gentle, curious personalities that create unforgettable photo opportunities and genuine connections.
Kangaroo & Wallaby Meetings: Feel the unique texture of marsupial fur as you pet baby kangaroos and wallabies in designated interaction areas. These Australian natives provide surprisingly calm, gentle encounters that fascinate both children and adults. The joey experiences particularly captivate families seeking something truly special.
Farm Animal Favorites: Traditional farm experiences get elevated here with Highland cattle, friendly goats, gentle calves, and sociable llamas. You’ll appreciate how well-socialized these animals are, creating comfortable interactions even for first-time visitors. The variety ensures every family member finds their favorite furry friend.
Unique Species Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for rare sights like albino peacocks displaying their stunning white plumage, yellow raccoons with their unusual coloring, baby foxes, and even armadillos. These uncommon animals add an element of wildlife discovery that sets this zoo apart from typical petting farm experiences.
Atmosphere & Setting
Rural Charm: The property exudes authentic farmland appeal with its clean, well-maintained grounds nestled in Wisconsin’s countryside. You’ll find the intimate size creates a cozy, personal atmosphere where you never feel rushed or crowded, allowing for relaxed exploration at your own pace.
More in Wisconsin
Go-Karts, Bumper Boats, And An 18-Hole Mini Golf Course Await At This Marshall Amusement Park
Discover MoreSeasonal Beauty: Spring and summer visits showcase lush green surroundings, while fall transforms the property into a spectacular autumn destination. The wooded areas provide natural shade and scenic backdrops, especially during the hayride experiences through changing foliage.
Child-Friendly Layout: The compact design makes navigation easy for families with young children, reducing worry about losing little ones. A dedicated children’s play area features slides and swings, providing additional entertainment when kids need a break from animal interactions.
Educational Focus: The conservation and preservation mission creates an educational atmosphere without feeling academic. You’ll learn about different species naturally through hands-on experiences rather than reading signs, making it particularly engaging for younger visitors.
Other Considerations
Excellent Value: At $12 per person for ages 2 and up, admission includes access to all animal areas, petting experiences, the children’s play area, and weather-permitting hayrides. Special Tuesday pricing offers $10 admission, making it an even more budget-friendly option. Feed bags range from $2-$5, providing affordable ways to enhance animal interactions.
Seasonal Operations: The zoo operates May through October, with weekend hours typically 11am-4pm and limited weekday availability Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11am-3pm. Weather dependency means calling ahead or checking their Facebook page prevents disappointment from unexpected closures.
Related
More in Wisconsin
You Can Eat Colossal Pancakes Surrounded By An Unbelievable Antique Collection At This Wisconsin Cafe
Keep Exploring →Cash-Only Policy: Plan accordingly as they don’t accept credit or debit cards, though the reasonable pricing makes this manageable for most families. Season passes at $50 per person offer good value for local families planning multiple visits.
Perfect Duration: Most families spend 1-2 hours exploring comfortably, making it ideal for afternoon outings or combining with other area activities. The manageable size prevents overstimulation while ensuring you see everything without feeling rushed.
Group Accommodations: Weekday field trips and group outings can be arranged, making it popular for schools, camps, and birthday parties seeking unique educational experiences.
Bear Den Zoo & Petting Farm
📍 6831 Big Bend Rd, Waterford, WI 53185
