Lions Tigers & Bears Launches Summer Programs for Wildlife Education

Lions Tigers & Bears is opening its gates this summer for immersive educational programs and workshops focused on raising awareness about the global exotic animal crisis and the vital role sanctuaries play in wildlife rescue and care.

The nationally accredited exotic animal sanctuary in Alpine serves as Southern California‘s only Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries accredited facility, providing a lifelong home to more than 60 rescued animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and other exotic species.

The Mission Behind the Programs

Founder and Director Bobbi Brink emphasized that the sanctuary exists to educate the public about the dangers of the exotic animal trade and the urgent need to rescue animals living in dire conditions.

These animals have been saved from inhumane conditions in roadside zoos, circuses, private ownership, and the exotic pet trade, making their stories powerful teaching tools.

Every visit helps raise awareness and supports real change for animals in need, turning education into compassion. The summer programs are designed to give us an inside look at the lives of rescued animals and the larger issues that affect them in both captivity and the wild.

Educational Experiences for Families

The Member-for-a-Day program and educational field trips create meaningful learning experiences centered on wildlife rescue and humane animal care.

Children receive interactive activity cards that guide them through the sanctuary while reinforcing key lessons about compassion, respect, and responsible stewardship. Completed cards can be redeemed for stickers, adding a fun element to the educational experience.

Guided Educational Visits offer walking tours through the sanctuary where we meet rescued animals, hear their powerful rescue stories, and witness firsthand the transformative care they now receive.

Each tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the animals’ individual journeys and the broader issues affecting wildlife today.

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

For those seeking deeper engagement, Lions Tigers & Bears offers private behind-the-scenes tours led by experienced keepers and trained visit guides.

We can enter animal care areas and habitat perimeters, and assist in feeding sessions for a rare opportunity to interact with these animals in a safe and respectful setting. This experience, designed for guests 18 and older, starts at $500 for two people.

The Stay the Night Experience

White Oak, Wild Nights offers a one-of-a-kind overnight experience nestled beside the habitats of rescued tigers Moka and Nola.

Enjoy exclusive accommodations on the White Oak property featuring two spacious bedrooms, luxurious bath, and full access to the White Oak Grotto and Gazebo with two pools, wood-burning fire pit, and outdoor patio with grilling stations.

As the sun sets, you can grab a lantern and explore the sanctuary for a rare after-dark experience with the animals, offering an unforgettable connection to the wild. The stay directly supports the lifelong care and well-being of the animals that call Lions Tigers & Bears home.

Educational Impact

Every program is designed to help us leave with a better understanding of the exotic animal industry and how we can make more compassionate and informed choices in our everyday lives.

The sanctuary’s accredited status ensures that educational messaging comes with the credibility of recognized expertise in animal care and welfare.

The variety of programs accommodates different interests and commitment levels, from family-friendly educational visits to immersive overnight experiences that create lasting connections between visitors and the animals they’re supporting.