When you think of Ohio, sprawling wildlife conservation centers might not be the first thing that comes to mind—but tucked away near Cumberland, Ohio, you’ll find a place that feels like stepping into the heart of an African safari. For over 30 years, The Wilds has been a haven for some of the world’s most endangered species, protecting local ecology and serving as a center for groundbreaking conservation efforts. Among its many incredible programs, the rhinoceros conservation initiative is among its most inspiring success stories.
With over 9,000 acres of rolling hills and open pastures, a reclaimed coal surface mine has been transformed into a sanctuary where animals roam freely and thrive. At The Wilds, you’ll find some of the planet’s most fascinating creatures, from majestic cheetahs to towering giraffes. But it’s the rhinoceros program that truly steals the spotlight.
Rhino Royalty: The Stars of the Show at The Wilds
The Wilds is home to two key rhino species: southern white rhinos and greater one-horned rhinos, both playing vital roles in global conservation. From 2021 to 2024, The Wilds hosted the American Institute of Rhinoceros Science (AIRS), a collaborative project funded by a three-year National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).
This AIRS initiative united experts from six leading wildlife centers to address challenges in rhino breeding, involving over 200 animals across 70 zoos. At The Wilds, the focus was on enhancing their care, improving rhino breeding, and understanding their behavior to secure a brighter future for these remarkable animals.
Since welcoming its first rhino calf in 2004, The Wilds has emerged as a leader in rhino conservation. Its southern white rhino program is among the most successful in North America, with nearly 30 calves born on-site. Notably, according to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), The Wilds is the only facility outside of Africa to produce fifth-generation rhinos, with 13 born as of February 2024.
The greater one-horned rhino program has also made significant strides, with 11 calves born to date. These births contribute to the global effort to preserve this vulnerable species, with each calf representing progress in their survival.
Both rhino species at The Wilds are part of the AZA Species Survival Plan® (SSP) programs, which manage rhino breeding plans on a national level.
A Behind-the-Scenes Peek
If you’re curious about what goes into caring for these gentle giants, The Wilds offers exclusive Rhino Barn Tours from November through April. During these tours, you’ll visit the rhino herd in their heated winter quarters. It’s a rare chance to see these animals up close and learn about the expert care that keeps them happy and healthy year-round.
For a broader adventure, the Winter Wildside Tour includes visits to the rhino barns, opportunities to feed giraffes, and a tour of other species and how they are cared for during the winter season. During the warmer months, the Open-Air Safari Tour takes you across expansive pastures to see rhinos and other animals living as freely as possible outside their native habitats.
A Day at The Wilds
The Wilds is more than rhinos—it’s a full-day experience for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to reconnect with the natural world. Start your day with an Open-Air Safari, enjoy a picnic with a view, and explore miles of trails that wind through the reserve. Don’t forget to stop by the Carnivore Center to see cheetahs and African painted dogs in action.
And for those who want to make it a weekend getaway, The Wilds offers overnight accommodations ranging from rustic yurts to luxury cabins. Falling asleep to the sounds of nature is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Plan Your Visit
The Wilds is open year-round and offers unique experiences in each season. Winter offers intimate behind-the-scenes tours, while summer provides Open-Air Safaris and exciting wildlife activities. No matter when you visit, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the incredible efforts to protect it.
As a nonprofit safari park and conservation center, The Wilds’ mission is “Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.” Each visit helps fund conservation, so your adventure supports a global mission to protect endangered species.
So, whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or someone who simply loves supporting a good cause, The Wilds is a destination that delivers. Come for the rhinos, stay for the unforgettable memories, and leave knowing you’ve been a part of something extraordinary. Visit The Wilds and discover this remarkable place so close to home.
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