Catskill Animal Sanctuary
- Admission
- $20 adults, $10 children aged 3-12, free for children under 3
- Hours
- Saturdays and Sundays by online reservation (April through November); closed to the general public in winter
- Duration
- 1.5 - 2 hours
- Parking
- Free on-site parking lot for tour guests
- Access
- Terrain consists of gravel roads and grassy pastures which may be difficult for some wheelchairs; golf cart assistance can be arranged in advance
Spanning 150 acres in the Hudson Valley, this peaceful refuge provides a safe haven for hundreds of rescued farm animals. Visitors can take guided tours to meet friendly pigs, sheep, cows, and goats. It is also one of the first sanctuaries of its kind to offer an on-site historic guest house.
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Founded in 2001, the Catskill Animal Sanctuary is a 150-acre haven in Saugerties, New York, dedicated to rescuing abused and neglected farm animals. Over the years, the sanctuary has provided a safe home for thousands of individuals representing eleven different species, from cows and pigs to sheep and chickens.
Visitors can experience these animals up close through guided weekend tours, where they can hear the residents' stories and learn about the realities of factory farming. The sanctuary also offers cooking demonstrations and educational programs aimed at fostering compassion and sustainable living.
What makes the sanctuary truly special is the deep, respectful connection fostered between humans and animals. Guests can even book a stay at the Homestead, a restored 1813 federal-style residence on the property, for an immersive weekend getaway.
Ratings
animal sanctuaryVisitor Tips
- ◆ Book your weekend tours well in advance, as slots are limited and highly popular during the warmer months.
- ◆ Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes, as you will be traversing uneven, unpaved farm terrain.
- ◆ Consider staying overnight at The Homestead, the on-site historic guest house, for a unique and immersive sanctuary experience.
- ◆ Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat, as much of the tour takes place in open, unsheltered pastures.
Heads Up
- ◆ Do not bring any non-vegan food or animal products onto the sanctuary grounds, as the site strictly promotes a vegan lifestyle.
- ◆ Interactions with animals are strictly monitored for safety; always follow the guide's instructions and do not feed the animals unauthorized treats.
- ◆ The sanctuary is a working farm with gravel paths and grassy hills, which may pose mobility challenges for some visitors.
Common questions
Can you visit Catskill Animal Sanctuary without a guided tour?
No, visitors are not allowed to wander the property on their own. You must book a public weekend tour or a private tour in advance to access the sanctuary grounds and see the animals.
Can you stay overnight at the Catskill Animal Sanctuary?
Yes, overnight lodging is available at The Homestead, a restored 1813 farmhouse located directly on the sanctuary property. Guests staying at The Homestead receive complimentary access to the sanctuary's public tours.
Are dogs allowed at Catskill Animal Sanctuary?
No, companion animals of any kind, including dogs, are not allowed on the sanctuary grounds or in the parking lot. This policy is strictly enforced to protect the peace and safety of the rescued farm animals.
Are you allowed to pet and interact with the animals?
Yes, guided tours offer opportunities to pet and interact with some of the rescued farm animals, such as sheep, goats, and pigs, depending on the animals' willingness and comfort levels on that day.