The Exotic Resort Zoo boasts a herd of zebras, one of the most iconic animals on the African plains and untold numbers of nature documentaries, cartoons, coloring books, and chewing gum packs. The zebras are only one of 45 species of wildlife at the Johnson City attraction. Staff photos by Dakota Morrissiey
You don’t realize how big a camel is until one walks up to you and asks for something to eat. The Exotic Resort Zoo in Johnson City prides itself on experiences like this, bringing guests up close to a friendly host of wild creatures from around the world.
The 137-acre, family-owned safari park lies along U.S. 281 just a few miles north of Johnson City. Over 800 animals and 45 distinct species call the park home, and they all want to meet you.
“One thing that sets us apart is that our animals come up to see you very eagerly,” Kayli Cantwell, part-owner of the Exotic Resort Zoo, told 101HighlandLakes.com. “They are up in your face … all the time.”
Cantwell’s grandparents opened the park on family land in 1995 to share their passion for wildlife with visitors. Species from every continent except Antarctica are found on the property. Some are familiar, like zebras, kangaroos, elk, and camels; others are more exotic, such as massive kudu antelope and African oryx.
The backbone of the zoo’s operation are the guided tours that take guests on a 45-minute to one-hour tractor-trailer ride through seven pastures. Along the way, any and all of the animals approach to grab a treat.
Zoo staff pilot the tractor that pulls the covered trailer with bench seats and a lifted vantage point for a good look at the wildlife. Most of the creatures are gregarious, stepping right up to the trailer for incredible photo-ops. Visitors can greatly increase their chances of interactions with a bucket of feed, available for purchase.
The Exotic Resort Zoo also allows self-guided tours, so you can see the critters at your own pace in your own vehicle.
Cantwell said the tours are for all ages and the fun is infectious.
“I think it’s really cool to see that animals have no age limit,” she said. “Guests will say, ‘It’s for the kids,’ then you turn around and the whole family is reaching into the bucket and getting slobbery. A fan favorite are the camels that give you kisses.”
Visitors can stay overnight at the park. Eight cabins housing four to eight guests each are available to rent and include a private petting zoo and unlimited personal drives through the park.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
The Exotic Resort Zoo
WHERE: 235 Zoo Trail off of U.S. 281 north of Johnson City
OPEN: Daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., weather permitting. Arrive before 4:30 p.m. for the last tour. Closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
BEST TIME TO GO: In the morning, when the animals are most active
COST (tickets may be purchased online)
- Ages 13-59: $19.95
- Ages 60 and up: $17.95
- Ages 2-12: $15.95
- Animal feed: $8 per bucket
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit ZooExotics.com or call 830-868-4357
