A Wild Time Awaits
Picture the look on a child’s face when a giraffe stretches its neck for leafy greens, the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. Welcome to Natural Bridge Zoo, in Rockbridge County, Virginia where wildlife, education and family fun collide. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious family looking for a unique outing, this zoo has a one-of-a-kind combination of up-close animal encounters and a Virginia backdrop.
It hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Natural Bridge Zoo has had its controversies, including a 2023 animal welfare investigation that resulted in 71 animals being seized. Under new management since May 2024 the zoo is working to rebuild public trust and redefine the visitor experience. In this post we’ll cover the top animal attractions, what’s new and everything you need to know to make your 2025 visit the best ever.
Quick Facts About Natural Bridge Zoo
- Location: 5784 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA
- ⏰ Hours: March to November, 9 AM to 6 PM
- ️ Entry: ~$15 adults, ~$10 children (check website for latest)
- Highlights: Giraffe feeding, primate talks, Safari Wagon Ride
- Nearby: Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia Safari Park
A Wild Adventure in the Heart of Virginia
Natural Bridge Zoo isn’t your run of the mill roadside attraction. Surrounded by hills and the famous Natural Bridge, the zoo is home to over 100 animals from around the world. Families will love watching playful lemurs, slithering reptiles and parrots that are comedians.
For 7 year old Emma it was a summer to remember. “He’s like a fairy tale!” she exclaimed pointing to Jasper the giraffe. That’s what Natural Bridge Zoo is all about – education and enchantment.
Top Animal Encounters You Won’t Want to Miss
Giraffe Feeding Experience
Feeding Jasper the giraffe is a bucket list experience for many visitors. For $5 you can feed the giraffes under zookeeper supervision and learn fun facts – like how their tongues can be up to 18 inches long! Although past concerns about enclosure standards are part of the zoo’s history, recent upgrades including shade and health checks show they are continuing to improve.
Meet the Primates
Capuchins, lemurs and more await at the primate pavilion. During school trips 10 year old Liam is often mesmerized watching the monkeys play. Detailed signage and staff led discussions explain the animals’ behaviors and conservation status. Since the 2023 primate seizure several of the animals are now living in improved conditions with increased veterinary oversight.
Reptile & Bird Interactions
Get up close with macaws, kookaburras and even Burmese pythons. For solo traveller Mia who had never liked snakes before now she loves them. Staff offer interactive sessions and fun facts, perfect for budding zoologists.
More Than Just Animals: Attractions and Activities
Safari Wagon Ride
Take a ride on the Safari Wagon to traverse the open fields and see zebras, antelopes and ostriches in semi natural settings. For the Carter family it was like being on a mini African safari.
Educational Pavilion & Kids’ Corner
The pavilion has daily talks and Q&A sessions where zookeepers talk about animal diets, conservation and behind the scenes care. Next door the Children’s Activity Area has wildlife themed games and arts & crafts.
Gift Shop & Café
Animal souvenirs, local snacks and scenic views, the gift shop and café is a great place to take a break.
What’s New in 2025 at Natural Bridge Zoo?
New owners since May 2024, the zoo is being rebranded. Gretchen Mogensen and her siblings are leading with a focus on animal welfare, education and interactive experiences. Highlights:
- New enclosures with better shelter and enrichment
- Wildlife Discovery Trail: A self guided trail with interactive signage
- Mobile App (coming soon): Real time animal updates, virtual map
- Small animal petting zone for younger visitors
These changes aim to turn the zoo from controversy to credibility.
Behind the Headlines: A New Chapter for Natural Bridge Zoo
The Natural Bridge Zoo has been at the center of significant news, primarily due to an ongoing legal battle following a December 2023 raid by the Virginia Attorney General’s Animal Law Unit, which seized 71 animals, including 17 capuchins and 14 tortoises, over allegations of neglect. In March 2024, a jury ruled that these animals would remain in state custody, while 29 were returned to the zoo. The four giraffes, however, remained on-site due to the complexity of transporting them. This saga has continued to unfold, drawing attention to the zoo’s operations and animal welfare practices.
In October 2024, the only male giraffe, Jeffrey, was relocated to a South Carolina sanctuary in an eight-hour ordeal marked by logistical challenges, including an incident where the giraffe was hit by a gate. On May 19, 2025, authorities attempted to move a female giraffe but halted after six hours to avoid stressing the animal. The following day, May 20, 2025, a second female giraffe was successfully loaded onto a transport trailer and moved, as reported by WSET. On May 22, 2025, a third female giraffe was seized at 9:45 a.m., an event livestreamed by the zoo on Facebook, with zoo staff expressing concerns that the veterinarians’ actions endangered the giraffe named Valentine. The zoo noted in a Facebook comment that the state planned to return on May 23, 2025, to seize the final adult giraffe, concluding the transfer of the four originally seized.
Court documents also revealed a troubling development: two baby giraffes, born to the zoo’s females, are unaccounted for, raising questions about oversight and prompting public concern. The state has alleged that former owner Karl Mogensen threatened to shoot veterinarians involved in the transfers, while current owner Gretchen Mogensen reportedly posted online encouraging harassment of those involved, including targeting the Knoxville and Oakland Zoos. These allegations, combined with the zoo’s financial burden—paying $198,635.52 for the care of seized animals without reimbursement for the giraffes’ care—have fueled controversy. The Mogensens have appealed, citing Fourth Amendment violations during the raid, with a jury trial set for February 26, 2026.
Despite these challenges, the zoo’s new management is focused on moving forward, emphasizing improved care and transparency. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed about these developments and support ethical wildlife practices as the zoo navigates its path toward renewal.
Learning and Caring for Wildlife
Natural Bridge Zoo is more than just a place to see animals. It’s an educational hub. Take Jake, the teenager who fell in love with lemurs and started volunteering here. That’s the kind of impact this zoo can have. Not AZA-accredited, yet the zoo is building a reputation for grassroots education and advocacy.
To support conservation, visitors can:
- Donate to groups like the World Wildlife Fund
- Support ethical wildlife initiatives
- Ask questions during keeper talks to really learn more
Plan Your Visit Like a Local
- Arrive early for active animals and fewer crowds
- Wear sunscreen, hats and comfy shoes
- Most paths are wheelchair-friendly-call ahead for any accommodations you might need
- Pair your visit with nearby attractions like Natural Bridge State Park or Caverns
FAQ: Natural Bridge Zoo Explained
Is Natural Bridge Zoo safe and ethical to visit?
Yes. Under new management, the zoo is working hard to put its past behind it-and to be more transparent.
Can I feed or touch the animals?
Yes. Giraffe feeding and small animal interactions are available. Policies may vary by season.
Is the zoo good for young kids?
Absolutely. With animal exhibits, crafts and a petting area, it’s a hit for families.
How do I stay updated on zoo news?
Check their official website or mobile app for updates and events.
A Comeback Story in the Making
Natural Bridge Zoo stands at a crossroads in 2025. It’s leaving its shadows behind and stepping into a new era of transparency, compassion and family-centered adventure. Your visit promises moments of wonder-from feeding the giraffes to discovering those rare reptiles.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or planning a fun family trip, Natural Bridge Zoo is once again earning its place on Virginia’s must-visit list.
Ready to explore? Head to their [official site] to plan your visit. Don’t forget to share your favorite animal encounter in the comments below—you might just inspire someone else to connect with the wild!
