The Wilds safari park in Cumberland, Ohio, has been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best Best Safari Park award, with voting now open online at 10best.usatoday.com.
The nomination highlights the park’s conservation-focused operations on nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed mining land in southeastern Ohio.
The Wilds is home to several endangered species and runs programs including rhinoceros breeding, reintroduction projects for native species, and global wildlife research. Visitors contribute to the preservation of species such as cheetahs, takins and Persian onagers.
Safari tours at The Wilds cater to a wide range of visitors. The Open-Air Safari takes guests across rolling hills to see animals including rhinos, giraffes and antelope. The Wildside Tour features guided encounters with animals designed to combine educational content with hands-on experiences.
The park also offers overnight accommodations. Nomad Ridge features luxury yurts for adults, while The Lodge provides a private retreat for families or small groups. The Cabins at Straker Lake give visitors a secluded option, and Wildnights at the Outpost allows guests to spend the night in proximity to rhinos and other rare species.
“Our lodging options offer a diverse range of experiences, from cozy cabins and a charming lodge to luxurious yurts and immersive camping in pastures where you’ll find endangered species as your neighbors,” The Wilds’ website indicates.
This summer, The Wilds plans to expand its lodging options with a new campground. The site will include tent camping and RV hookups with modern amenities, giving guests an additional way to experience the park.
The Wilds nomination for the 10Best award reflects the park’s combination of wildlife conservation, visitor engagement and expanded accommodations. The award recognizes destinations nationwide for excellence in visitor experience and unique offerings.
Voting for the award is open to the public through the 10Best website.
“Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a team-building retreat, The Wilds has the perfect accommodation to suit your desires, all while surrounded by the pristine beauty of this unique natural sanctuary!” The Wilds’ website states.