North Carolina Zoo

About

The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is widely recognized as the world's largest natural habitat zoo, encompassing more than 2,600 acres of land with over 500 acres developed for animal habitats and visitor areas. Operated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the zoo is a premier destination in the Southeast for wildlife education and conservation. The zoo is divided into two major regions: Africa and North America. The Africa region features elephants, lions, gorillas, chimpanzees, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and countless other species living in carefully designed naturalistic enclosures. The North America section showcases polar bears, bison, alligators, black bears, and native birds in expansive habitats. Beyond its impressive animal collection, the NC Zoo runs active field conservation programs focused on native species including the American red wolf—one of the world's most endangered canids—and the eastern hellbender. The zoo maintains botanical garden spaces throughout its grounds, earning affiliate membership in Botanic Gardens Conservation International. Education programs include school field trips, youth camps (Snorin' Safari overnight programs), keeper encounter experiences, and guided tours. The zoo's sheer scale means visitors typically spend a full day exploring, and tram transportation is available across the expansive grounds.

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