The Wilds, a conservation center located on nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed surface mining land in Cumberland, Ohio, has officially opened for the summer season and will celebrate the grand opening of its new Hellbender RV Campground on May 30.
The Hellbender RV Campground is expected to welcome an estimated 35,000 visitors annually, contributing to local tourism and economic growth.
The campground includes 47 full-service RV sites with utility connections and 26 primitive camping spots for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Additional amenities include hiking and biking trails, a children’s playground, a fully stocked camp store, and a dog park.
The Wilds is home to more than 30 rare and endangered species, including takin, Père David’s deer, greater one-horned rhinos, southern white rhinos, and Masai giraffes.
The conservation center offers a variety of daily tours such as the Open-Air Safari Tour and the Wildside Tour, along with specialty experiences including the Zipline Safari, Fishing Safari, Horseback Safari, Sunset Tour, and Birding at The Wilds.
Overnight accommodations include the adults-only yurts at Nomad Ridge, family-friendly Cabins at Straker Lake, a lodge, and the rustic WildNights at the Outpost camping experience.
The Wilds continues to expand its offerings and mission. “The Wilds has always been a place where conservation and adventure come together, and we are incredibly excited to open the Hellbender RV Campground this season,” Dr. Smith said..
“This new experience will provide our guests with even more opportunities to connect with nature while celebrating a remarkable Ohio species whose resilience mirrors the mission of The Wilds. Whether you’re camping under the stars, exploring our pastures, or learning about our conservation work, there is truly something for everyone” Smith explained, as reported by Times Recorder.
The Wilds is open year-round, with tours available from May through October and specialty offerings running from November through April.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit TheWilds.org.