Catskill Animal Sanctuary
A haven for rescued farm animals, offering educational tours and a peaceful retreat in the Hudson Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Catskill Animal Sanctuary
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A haven for rescued farm animals, offering educational tours and a peaceful retreat in the Hudson Valley.
"An amazing experience, educational, heartwarming, and inspiring!"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Closed-toe shoes are essential for walking the grounds. You might get a little muddy! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book online to secure your spot! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Meet Rescued Farm Animals
Various pastures and barns
Encounter pigs, cows, goats, sheep, horses, and chickens, each with a unique rescue story.
Informative Guided Tours
Throughout the sanctuary
Learn about the animals' past lives and the sanctuary's mission from passionate guides.
Quiet Moments of Connection
Animal enclosures
Experience the peaceful atmosphere and observe animals living their best lives.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Closed-toe shoes are essential for walking the grounds. You might get a little muddy! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book online to secure your spot! :ticket:
Support the Sanctuary
Consider donating or adopting an animal to help fund their care. Every bit helps! :heart:
Be Respectful of Animals
This is their home. Observe quietly and follow guide instructions for interactions. :eyes:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Closed-toe shoes are essential for walking the grounds. You might get a little muddy! :athletic_shoe:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book online to secure your spot! :ticket:
Support the Sanctuary
Consider donating or adopting an animal to help fund their care. Every bit helps! :heart:
Be Respectful of Animals
This is their home. Observe quietly and follow guide instructions for interactions. :eyes:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Catskill Animal Sanctuary for its peaceful atmosphere, the evident love and care for the rescued animals, and the informative, heartfelt tours. Many highlight the passion of the staff and the inspiring stories of the animals. Some visitors express a desire for more direct animal interaction, but understand the sanctuary's priority is the animals' well-being.
"We took the 90 min tour and it was lovely!
Our guide was super sweet and made the tour very informative. Yes, the information shared can be upsetting. Because the reality how animals are treated in the meat and entertainment industries (where the animals at the sanctuary come from) is very disturbing. I’m more surprised that a lot of this seems to be news to people though.
Would I have loved to pet more animals? Absolutely! But this is a sanctuary for them to be at peace and not a petting zoo. So if you just come to pet animals, this might not be for you. But if you want to meet some animals and hear their stories and also support the sanctuary, give it a shot.
I would love to go back when it’s a little warmer.
Edit: just wanted to add, wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty and dress warm during the colder months ;)"
Marie W
"I had the pleasure of visiting CAS this past weekend and it was an amazing experience. The grounds were peaceful, and the animals were calm and could tell they are so loved. Our tour guide, Alison, was fantastic—she shared detailed stories about the animals’ we met, as well as thoughtful context about the farming industry.
What impressed me most was how passionate and caring the entire team is. Their love for the animals shines through in the sanctuary’s atmosphere—healthy, relaxed animals who greet visitors without fear. Even the few sheep in quarantine seemed at ease and well cared for.
I highly recommend visiting if you’re in the area. It’s educational, heartwarming, and inspiring."
Sloane C. Rasmussen Wong
"We had an amazing tour today! All of the staff were sooo friendly and Alison was a great tour guide. Very informative and loved getting to interact with the sweet animals. We will definitely be back 😊"
Susannah Riehemann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Catskill Animal Sanctuary is located in Saugerties, NY. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options are limited in the area, so check local bus routes if you're relying on them.
Public transport options to Saugerties are limited. It's best to check with local bus services for routes that may get you close, but a car is generally recommended for easier access to the sanctuary.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach the Catskill Animal Sanctuary. The sanctuary is nestled in the Hudson Valley, and car travel allows for flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas as well.
Yes, Saugerties and the wider Hudson Valley offer many attractions, including scenic hiking trails, charming towns, and other nature spots. The sanctuary itself is a beautiful place to visit.
You can find detailed driving directions on the official Catskill Animal Sanctuary website. It's recommended to use GPS or a mapping app for real-time navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Catskill Animal Sanctuary is typically by donation, with suggested tour fees. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and donation recommendations.
Yes, booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, as tours can sell out. This also helps the sanctuary manage visitor flow and ensure a peaceful environment for the animals.
The sanctuary's hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and operating hours before planning your visit.
Tours are the primary way to visit and experience the sanctuary. They are designed to be informative and respectful of the animals' environment.
There are generally no age restrictions for visiting the Catskill Animal Sanctuary, but tours are designed to be educational for all ages. Children should be supervised by an adult.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours at Catskill Animal Sanctuary are typically 90 minutes long and led by knowledgeable guides who share the rescue stories of the animals and educate visitors about animal welfare. You'll meet various farm animals and learn about the sanctuary's mission.
While the sanctuary aims for respectful interaction, it's not a petting zoo. Guides will indicate when and how it's appropriate to interact with certain animals, prioritizing their comfort and safety.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothing that you don't mind getting dirty. Layers are recommended, especially during cooler months, as you'll be outdoors.
Yes, restroom facilities are available for visitors at the sanctuary. It's always a good idea to use them before or after your tour.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the animals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Catskill Animal Sanctuary typically does not have a cafe or restaurant on-site. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks or plan to eat before or after their visit in Saugerties.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy. There are often designated areas where you can sit and have a picnic.
Saugerties and the surrounding Hudson Valley area offer various dining options, including many with vegan and vegetarian choices, reflecting the sanctuary's ethos.
It's best to have a meal before or after your tour. If you plan to stay longer or want to enjoy the grounds, pack snacks and drinks.
The sanctuary often has areas suitable for picnicking, allowing visitors to enjoy their own packed meals amidst the peaceful surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The sanctuary offers beautiful natural landscapes and adorable animals. Focus on capturing the animals in their peaceful environment and the genuine interactions with staff.
It's best to avoid using flash photography, as it can startle or distress the animals. Natural light is usually abundant and provides great photo opportunities.
Visitors often capture photos of the rescued animals, the serene grounds, and heartwarming moments of care and connection.
Drone usage is typically not permitted at animal sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the residents. Always check the sanctuary's specific policies regarding drones.
Be patient, observe their behavior, and try to capture them in natural poses. Getting down to their level can also create more engaging shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to prepare children for the emotional nature of some rescue stories. Dressing them in comfortable, durable clothing and shoes is essential for exploring the sanctuary grounds.
❤️ Animal Lovers & Advocates
This is an opportunity to connect with animals on a profound level, understanding their resilience and the importance of sanctuaries. Visitors often leave feeling inspired and motivated to support animal advocacy and make more compassionate choices in their own lives.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Remember to be respectful of the animals and other visitors; avoid disruptive practices like excessive flash photography or drone use.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Catskill Animal Sanctuary
Each animal at CAS has a unique background, often involving harrowing escapes from factory farms, slaughterhouses, or neglectful situations. Visitors on tours learn these individual stories, which highlight the importance of the sanctuary's mission.
CAS relies heavily on donations and the support of visitors to continue its vital work. By visiting, you not only gain a heartwarming experience but also contribute directly to the care and well-being of these rescued animals.
Understanding the Sanctuary Tour Experience
While the stories can be upsetting due to the realities of animal industries, they are presented with a focus on hope and the positive impact of the sanctuary. Visitors often express surprise at the depth of information shared, which sheds light on the lives of farm animals.
It's important to prepare for the tour by wearing appropriate clothing and footwear. The grounds are natural, and the weather can be a factor. The experience is often described as heartwarming, inspiring, and eye-opening, making it a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in animal welfare.
Supporting the Sanctuary's Future
Beyond direct donations, the sanctuary offers opportunities for symbolic adoptions, where you can 'adopt' an animal and receive updates on their life. This is a wonderful way to feel connected to the sanctuary's mission and support a specific resident.
Educating yourself and others about animal welfare is also a crucial form of support. By sharing your experience and the sanctuary's message, you help spread awareness and encourage more compassionate choices.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit