Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo

Chestatee Wildlife Preserve is a nonprofit wildlife destination in Dahlonega, Georgia, home to more than 100 exotic and native animals. The preserve says many of its animals were rescued, orphaned, illegally purchased, abused, or otherwise in need of a permanent home. Its setting is informal and self-guided, with bark-chip trails leading visitors through areas where animals can be observed from relatively close range. The collection includes zebras, bison, camels, white bison, zedonks, big cats, monkeys, parrots, and other wildlife.

Feeding is a central part of the visit, with designated feed chutes allowing guests to offer food to selected animals while keeping a barrier between people and the animals. The preserve also offers a limited private sloth encounter for visitors who want a more direct experience. Most visits take about an hour and a half, making Chestatee a relatively compact wildlife outing rather than a large zoo complex. Its rescued-animal focus, informal layout, and feeding opportunities make it particularly suited to travelers who prefer close animal observation and interaction in a small-scale setting.