Keepers of the Wild

Keepers of the Wild Nature Park is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in Valentine, Arizona, established in 1995 to provide lifelong care for abused, neglected, abandoned, and retired captive wildlife. The 175-acre sanctuary occupies a canyon landscape along historic Route 66 and is home to more than 130 rescued animals. Its residents include big cats, bears, wolves, primates, birds, and indigenous Southwest species such as cougars, bobcats, and coyotes. The sanctuary's approach centers on animal welfare, with residents living in large natural outdoor habitats where they can roam, hide, and choose how they spend their time.

Visitors can explore the sanctuary on self-guided walking paths with educational signs at the habitats or join a guided safari tour through the canyon with a knowledgeable Keeper. The guided experience provides context about the animals and how they came to the sanctuary, while the walking route allows for a slower exploration of the habitats. Public interaction with the animals is not permitted. Keepers of the Wild suits travelers interested in rescued wildlife, animal welfare, and sanctuary-based experiences rather than conventional zoo exhibits.