LAKE ARIEL ZOO FIELD GUIDE
Woodland Days at Lake Ariel: A Slow, Sunny Visit to the Zoo in the Woods
An open‑air zoo set on shady woodland trails with daily animal feedings and picnic spots — this guide covers what to expect and how to plan your visit.
Woodland Days at Lake Ariel: A Slow, Sunny Visit to the Zoo in the Woods.
Adventure brief
Woodland Days at Lake Ariel: A Slow, Sunny Visit to the Zoo in the Woods
Set in Lake Ariel, the Zoo in the Woods is an open‑air attraction of shady, spacious woodland trails where animals and visitors share a summer rhythm. During the season you can follow winding paths, pause for a picnic and join daily feeding activities — from Jethro the giraffe to the Lorry parrots and Turtle Town — in an easygoing outdoor setting.
Claws 'N' Paws is a lively open-air zoo tucked into scenic woodland surroundings, offering visitors a chance to get up close with a variety of animals in a natural setting. Located in an area where mothers nature herself has crafted lush trails and habitats, this zoo specializes in bringing the wilderness to you. Perfect for travelers seeking a family-friendly outing or anyone eager to see wildlife in a less conventional environment, it blends adventure with education.
The highlight here is the engaging daily animal feeding activities, which give visitors an intimate glimpse of creatures like Jethro the Giraffe and colorful Lorry Parrots. These interactive sessions aren’t just adorable—they foster a deeper understanding of animal behaviors and conservation efforts. The spacious woodland trails wind through the property, offering serene spots to enjoy a picnic while soaking in the sights and sounds of nature. The setting is particularly ideal during summer, when the greenery is at its peak, and the animals are most active.
What sets Claws 'N' Paws apart is its dedication to wildlife education within a relaxed, outdoor environment. It’s a standout destination in the region, where the charm of woodland privacy enhances every visit. It’s perfect for families, school groups, or anyone wanting a day immersed in nature’s antics. From spotting wildlife to learning about species’ conservation stories amidst the trees, this attraction makes outdoor education fun and meaningful.
Whether you’re feeding giraffes or wandering along forest paths, visiting Claws 'N' Paws zoo promises a memorable experience that combines adventure, conservation, and wildlife observation all in one accessible location.
Route Schematic
Typical Route & Key Stops
Follow the shaded trails to the zoo’s main activity points, with hands‑on feedings and themed exhibits along the way.
Woodland Trails (Entrance)
Begin on the shady, spacious trails that connect exhibits and activity areas across the grounds.
Giraffe Feeding (Jethro)
Join the scheduled feeding for Jethro the giraffe; feedings are a featured daily activity and require a separate fee.
Lorry Parrot Feeding
Participate in the parrot feeding (space is limited); bookings or early arrival may be necessary to secure a spot.
Turtle Town
A hands‑on feed opportunity at Turtle Town — feedings are available for a small fee.
DINO OUTPOST & Picnic Areas
The DINO OUTPOST is open all day; nearby picnic spots let you linger, or visit the Snack Bar for a quick purchase (cash only).
Some interactive activities are space‑limited and require additional cash fees; note that last admission is one hour before closing, so plan arrival accordingly.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Meet Jethro and Feed the Giraffe
Daily feeding activities are a central draw: visitors can feed Jethro the giraffe (feedings are charged separately). These hands‑on moments are staged within the woodland setting and are among the most memorable of a visit.
Shady, Spacious Woodland Trails
The zoo is arranged as an open‑air attraction along shaded trails that invite unhurried walks, pausing at exhibits and activity stations throughout the grounds.
Parrot Feeding, Turtle Town and DINO OUTPOST
In addition to giraffe feedings, the daily programming includes Lorry parrot feedings (space limited), Turtle Town feedings, and a DINO OUTPOST that remains open all day.
What the day feels like
What a day there feels like
A visit unfolds as a series of low‑key encounters: stroll the cool canopy of the trails, join scheduled feedings for a close animal moment, and settle for a picnic on the grounds or a quick stop at the Snack Bar. The rhythm is daylight‑driven — the zoo operates daily during the season and schedules last admission an hour before closing — which keeps the pace relaxed and family‑friendly.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this visit suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You’re welcome to bring your own picnic lunch. Bring small bills for on‑site feedings and Snack Bar purchases; several feedings are cash only.
Animal feedings such as giraffe, parrot and Turtle Town are offered for a small fee (cash only); the Snack Bar is open but accepts cash only.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is the zoo open?
Seasonal hours run May 1st through mid‑October, seven days a week, 10am–6pm with last admission at 5pm.
Can I bring a picnic?
Yes — visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds.
Are there animal feedings?
Yes — daily animal feeding activities include Jethro the giraffe, Lorry parrot feeding (space limited) and Turtle Town; feedings carry a small fee.
What forms of payment are accepted for feedings and the Snack Bar?
Feedings and the Snack Bar are cash only.
Is the DINO OUTPOST open all day?
Yes — the DINO OUTPOST is open all day.
Who operates the Zoo in the Woods?
The operator is Claws 'N' Paws.
Is the attraction appropriate for all ages?
Yes — the offering is presented as suitable for all ages.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-27T22:15:15.801Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.