Oatland Island Wildlife Center
Discover Georgia's native wildlife on scenic trails at Oatland Island Wildlife Center, a conservation-focused preserve near Savannah.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Egrets nesting, active wildlife
Oatland Island Wildlife Center
Best Time
Egrets nesting, active wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Georgia's native wildlife on scenic trails at Oatland Island Wildlife Center, a conservation-focused preserve near Savannah.
"A hidden gem for families and nature lovers, offering a delightful blend of wildlife encounters and scenic walks."
💧 Bring Water & Bug Spray
It gets hot! Stay hydrated and protect yourself from insects, especially on the 2-mile trail.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking about 2 miles on natural trails, so good footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Native Animal Habitats
Throughout the center
See wolves, bobcats, cougars, alligators, bald eagles, and more in spacious, natural enclosures.
Scenic Nature Trails
100+ acres of grounds
Wander 2 miles of shaded paths through diverse ecosystems, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Farm Area
Barn area
Meet farm animals like cows, goats, pigs, turkeys, and chickens in a charming, interactive setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Animal Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Water & Bug Spray
It gets hot! Stay hydrated and protect yourself from insects, especially on the 2-mile trail. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking about 2 miles on natural trails, so good footwear is a must.
📸 Patience for Photos
Animals can be shy. Be patient and quiet for the best chances to see and photograph them.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Exploration
Great for little ones! They'll love spotting animals and walking the easy trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Water & Bug Spray
It gets hot! Stay hydrated and protect yourself from insects, especially on the 2-mile trail. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking about 2 miles on natural trails, so good footwear is a must.
📸 Patience for Photos
Animals can be shy. Be patient and quiet for the best chances to see and photograph them.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Exploration
Great for little ones! They'll love spotting animals and walking the easy trails.
🐦 Birdwatching Hotspot
Look for egrets nesting in spring and various birds in marshy areas. [^R]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Oatland Island Wildlife Center for its well-maintained grounds, friendly staff, and the engaging experience it offers for families and nature lovers. The reasonable admission price and the opportunity to see native animals in natural habitats are major highlights. Some visitors noted that certain animals might be hidden or exhibits closed, and the heat can be a factor during warmer months, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and enjoyable outing.
"We recently had the chance to visit the Oatland Island Wildlife Center, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. From the moment we arrived, everything felt very inviting and well cared for. The staff clearly put a lot of effort into keeping the grounds, habitats, and facilities clean, safe, and enjoyable for visitors. It was especially noticeable how well-upkept everything was, which made exploring the area even more pleasant.
Our two-year-old had an absolute blast, which says a lot because young kids can sometimes be hard to please when it comes to outings. He loved walking the trails, seeing the animals up close, and pointing out everything with excitement. Watching his reactions made the experience even more memorable for us as parents. There was a nice balance of shaded paths, open areas, and interactive spaces that kept him entertained without being overwhelming.
The variety of animals was also impressive, and it felt like each enclosure was designed thoughtfully, both for the animals’ comfort and for the visitors’ viewing experience. Overall, Oatland Island Wildlife Center exceeded our expectations, and we would definitely recommend it to families with young children or anyone looking for a relaxing, educational, and fun day outdoors."
Josh Trubey
"This is a great location for children to learn about many different animals varying from wolves to eagles. It was hot so bring plenty of water and be sure to take breaks. The trail is about 2 miles long and offers some shade."
Matthew Crumlich
"The lady at the ticket booth was very friendly. If it were not for her this would be a 1 star review. The cost is very reasonable, but I was expecting to see more animals. For the length of the trail, there are very few animals. And the few they had, many were hiding, in vet care or for whatever reason the exhibit is closed. It was pretty hot when we came as well, in the mid-80’s so by the time we were halfway through we were dripping in sweat. The first half of the trail was somewhat enjoyable but after that it was just torture. Very few animals and we just wanted it to end! If you like walking a lot and sweating a lot, go for it. If you like seeing lots of animals, go somewhere else."
Cammy Stout Hill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oatland Island Wildlife Center is conveniently located just a few miles from downtown Savannah, making it an easy drive. Many visitors report it's less than 5 miles away. 
Information on public transport routes to Oatland Island Wildlife Center can be limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access for visitors.
From downtown Savannah, head east on President Street, which becomes Farm Road. Continue on Farm Road, and Oatland Island Wildlife Center will be on your right. It's a straightforward drive through scenic areas.
The drive from downtown Savannah to Oatland Island Wildlife Center is typically very short, often under 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Yes, visitors generally find sufficient parking available at the center, making it easy to access the facilities and trails upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is very reasonable, making it an affordable outing for families and individuals. Visitors often mention the low cost as a significant plus. +1
Advance booking is generally not required for general admission. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival at the ticket booth.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or call ahead for the most current opening and closing times before your visit.
While specific discount programs aren't always highlighted, the general admission price is already considered very affordable by most visitors.
Information about specific membership programs or reciprocal memberships is not widely available. However, the low individual admission cost makes it accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of native animals including wolves, bobcats, cougars, alligators, bald eagles, bison, foxes, and farm animals like cows and goats. +1
The main trail is approximately 2 miles long, winding through different habitats. It's well-shaded in parts, offering a pleasant walking experience. +1
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for children to learn about animals and enjoy nature. The trails are easy to walk, and the animals are captivating for kids. +1
Mornings and late afternoons are often best, as animals tend to be more active during cooler parts of the day.
The center focuses on education and conservation, with staff often being knowledgeable and friendly. While specific scheduled programs might vary, the exhibits themselves are educational.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural habitats offer beautiful backdrops. Areas near the wolf viewing, alligator enclosures, and scenic trail sections are popular for photos.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding flash photography or specific restrictions.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be great for the scenic trails and habitats.
Yes, especially during spring when egrets nest. The marshy areas and pond can also be good spots for bird photography. [^R]
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best natural light for photography, illuminating the animals and landscapes beautifully.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The center excels at providing an educational yet fun experience. Kids can learn about Georgia's wildlife and conservation efforts in an engaging way. The staff are often noted as being friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the positive family atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
+1 You'll enjoy the shaded paths and the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a more active hike, especially during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours. While the primary draw is the wildlife, the trails themselves are a significant part of the experience. They offer a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you'll be covering a good distance. Keep an eye out for birds, as the marshy areas are known for them. [^R]
📸 Photographers
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset often provide the best lighting conditions for stunning shots. Beyond the main exhibits, the trails themselves offer picturesque scenes. Birdwatchers and photographers alike can find subjects in the marshy areas and near the pond, especially during nesting seasons. [^R] Be patient, as animals may not always be in plain sight, but the effort can yield rewarding photographic moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Native Wildlife
Many visitors rave about the close encounters they've had with these animals. Some have witnessed pumas playing or heard the distinct bellow of alligators, especially during warmer weather.
While the variety is impressive, it's important to remember that these are wild animals. Some may be resting, hiding, or undergoing veterinary care, which can affect visibility.
+1The Oatland Island Nature Trails
These trails are not just for walking; they are integral to the wildlife viewing experience. As you wander, keep an eye out for smaller native creatures, birds, and the sounds of the natural world. [^R] The trails connect different animal exhibits and areas, creating a cohesive journey through the center. The well-maintained paths make it accessible for most visitors, including families with young children.
It's highly recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, as the 2-mile loop can be quite a trek, particularly in the heat.
+1Family Fun and Education
The center serves as an excellent educational resource, teaching visitors about Georgia's native ecosystems and the importance of conservation.
+1 The exhibits are designed to be informative, and the staff are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, ready to answer questions and enhance the learning experience. Practical tips for families include bringing plenty of water and snacks, as well as bug spray.
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