Popcorn Park Zoo was established in the late 1970’s as a safe haven for wild and farm animals that were illegally obtained, physically ill or subjected to cruelty and neglect. It remains a sanctuary for more than two hundred animals whose previous hope for the future were dubious at best. The Popcorn Park Zoo sits on more than seven acres in the beautiful Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey.
The Popcorn Park Zoo provides a safe and positive environment for numerous varieties of animals including tigers, horses, pigs, bobcats, reptiles and sheep. Sadly, Sonny the elephant that resided at the Popcorn Park Zoo passed away a few years ago, but thankfully he was able to live the remainder of his life in peace and comfort. A memorial plaque remains outside of his enclosure and never fails to make me misty. The monkey house features several types of monkeys including macaques and capuchins. Monkeys are always one of the most entertaining animal exhibits and the Popcorn Park Zoo’s residents are no exceptions. On one of our many family’s outings there, a particularly amorous female monkey decided my husband was quite the catch and flirted extensively with him, complete with batting of the eyes. It was side splittingly funny!
Each of the animals has their name and personal history displayed on a plaque outside their exhibit. It is very educational and raises awareness of the deplorable conditions and treatment that some exotic and farm animals must endure.
The reptile area is one of the favorites of my children. There are snakes, tortoises, iguanas and many other fascinating species that make their home at the Popcorn Park Zoo.
The staff at Popcorn Park Zoo are readily available to answer questions and offer additional details on the animal’s history, care and habits on any of the residents that you or your children may take a special interest in. These caring and professional people understand the value in the work they do and share their passion with the visitors.
Also located at the Popcorn Park Zoo is one of the three animal shelters that make up the Associated Humane Society of New Jersey. Stop in before you leave the zoo, there may just be a dog or cat that that needs a home and is waiting for you!
The Popcorn Park Zoo is located on Humane Way at Lacey Road in Forked River, New Jersey. Admission is $4.25 for adults and $3.00 for Children and Seniors. They are open from 11 am to 5 pm every day excluding holidays. On holidays, the zoo closes at 2 pm. Popcorn is available for purchase to feed the animals.
Picnic tables are available so that you can enjoy a packed lunch while there. The Popcorn Park Zoo is mostly unpaved paths, so I would recommend wearing
enclosed shoes, especially for the little ones.
Visiting the Popcorn Park Zoo is a great excursion for the family and the admission fee donates to a worthy and noble cause.
