We all enjoyed our time. As you watch the sunset, youll enjoy the sight of zebras just walking around your cabin. An excellent non-profit organization that is sure to inspire and provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime . Reservations can only be made up to a month in advance as the property often hosts weddings. Do512 Family is all about what to do in Austin with kids. Spanning 150 acres in McGregor, Texas, Blue Hills is an animal sanctuary that doubles as a cabin/RV resort and wedding venue. We were donated in March of 2021 and we patrol the fence line. The response has been great. the ranchs team told Travel + Leisure recently. For $300 you can spend the day in their facilities and can spend up to an hour with their two otters, Sweet Pea and Otto. I am a Dromedary Camel and my color is very rare. Come swim and play with our Asian Small-clawed Otter water sausages, Otto and Sweet Pea, in their private hot tub! Lake Whitney State Park. 129 talking about this. What is the April new moon and what does it mean? You can find us hanging out with our Mustang friends. We once roamed North Africa. They are semi-aquatic animals, and they are well adapted to life on both land and in water, like rivers, streams, freshwater wetlands, and the sea. Spanning 150 acres in McGregor, Texas, Blue Hills is an animal sanctuary that doubles as a cabin/RV resort and wedding venue. We help our zebras stand guard and protect our other animals from any harm, but we will also seek, Bonnie, Clyde, Monica, Ross, Chandler, Phoebe, Emma, Joey. or Otto and Sweet Pea are Asian small-clawed otters, the smallest of the 13 otter species. Monique reported on the trendiest news within the greater Houston region and across Texas, and occasionally contributes to the Chronicle's race and identity newsletter, HouWeAre. Geneva is my big sister and we have grown up together since I was a baby. Monique Welch was an engagement reporter for the Houston Chronicle. We were the first two exotic animals here at the sanctuary. The BSR Cable Park. A Chronicle investigation reveals the extent of the ballot paper shortage in Harris County's November election, including how the shortages could impact the future of Texas' election laws. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. The otters looked happy to interact with the women as they excitedly scurried around them in the pool. The swimming excursion takes place in the otters' private bubbling jaccuzzi, and visitors are given the unique chance to swim, play, and feed the otters their favorite treats including fish. 2019 Do512 Family. Swim with otters at Blue Hills Ranch near Waco, Texas! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Of course a big thanks to all the animals. Swims are operated daily from 2pm to 5pm, and reservations are required. She and a friend sat in a small pool with Asian small-clawed otters fooling around in the water. Please enable Javascript in your browser settings. We enjoy welcoming new visitors coming into the ranch. Headless Animals Repeatedly Dumped In Houston Neighborhood, Houston Black and Hispanic Neighborhoods Fight Back Against Concrete Pollution. It's no wonder it's one of the top things to do in Waco! Kids will never say no to a playscape, and the Cameron Park Playscape is pretty large. #texascheck #texas #texastravel #bluehillsranch #wacotexas #otters #ottersoftiktok The King 55.9K exploringamanda If otters aren't your thing, you can also come face to face with giraffes and camels. I am a special little brownish-red girl cow that was donated to the ranch in October 2020. We were rescued November of 2021. I would recommend that anyone check out this place for a great family or group event. Take a ride with us and see all our animal families, including our free-roaming cows, deer, emus and more. for the whole 60 minutes, the giraffes do also eat from trees during adventure. Hungry from your travels? A womans gym mystery catches the attention of a famous author. Our favorite snacks are strawberries and watermelon. I am blind and needed a good forever home. We are still very shy but enjoy seeing new people. What the heck is Swig, and why are the lines for it so long? The one-mile-long lazy river at BSR Cable Park is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy the cool water on a sweltering summer day in Texas. for safety during spring and summer time. Zebras. Soon after, we welcomed Monica, then along came Ross. Business is booming for Waco-area animal sanctuary, Blue Hills Ranch, thanks to a viral TikTok of one of their most popular attractions- swimming with otters. Is Abbott Trading Texas Future to Become Trumps Running Mate? Kangaroos. The other animals don't know it, but we pretty much run the place. It's the only place in the state and just one of six spots in the. Head to Blue Hills Ranch, just 15 minutes outside of Waco, and you can look forward to the most unique animal experiences in the state. We are the official "Guards" of Blue Hills Ranch. I used to live inside the farmhouse but now I hop around the barn yard. If swimming with otters isn't your thing; they offer other services there including: Renting out cabins so you can have a getaway for a weekend Dining with the giraffes The Safari Ranch where people can see the other animals there like kangaroos, donkeys, emus & cows You can even plan your wedding there if you want. Loved our visit, and thanks to the staff. If you've ever wondered what it's like to swim with otters, here's your chance! Devices like puzzles, palm fronds, coconuts, and Frisbees encourage the otters natural behaviors and give Merlin, Arthur, and Fisher a chance to explore their environment, solve problems, and make decisions. The otters looked happy to interact with the women as they excitedly scurried around them. The ranch offers visitors a chance to stay in its cabins, where guests can pay$200 per personto experience the otter swim service. Otters exhibit a characteristic love of playtime. "They're also spoiled so they have to have that perfect temperature.". Tel: 225-286-3003, Email: delaware@barnhillpreserve.com And for something even more exciting, you can actually reserve overnight stays in luxury cabins in the middle of the ranch! The otters prefer to swim warm waters, so Blue Hills maintains temperatures between 85 and 90 degrees in its hot tub, depending on the day. It's the only place in the state and just one of six spots in the. Encounter animals native to Texas, such as cougars, black bears, jaguars, ocelots, coyotes, bison, and otters. The guests were able to swim among two otters, Otto and Sweetpea, who loved to play-fight each other. You can actually swim with otters in Texas and TikTok is officially obsessed. You will not be able to watch others swim. Immediately following the tour you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of reptiles, mammals, and even a sloth! In the audience's saltwater pool, audience members can swim with Asian small-clawed otters. My little sister is in a motorized wheel chair she was able to get around. 38. Children must have an adult in the pool with them (ticket required). Come help bottle feed our 2 newest residents, baby camels! "Plus a pedestrian suspension bridge, several nice fishing and swimming holes, and pretty good." more. If you scratch our belly we will roll over. Located 86 miles north of Austin, the 150-acre Blue Hills Ranch Resort provides a variety of animal excursions, including swim time with two adorable Asian small-clawed otters named Otto and Sweet Pea. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. "We only take your group around together, so you will not be mixed with other people and feel left out," Lightfoot said. If you see us, we will go hide again, because you are always "it". Log In. The guests were able to swim among two otters, Otto and Sweetpea, who loved to play-fight each other. The video received over 2.6 million views on TikTok. Just outside of Waco, TX sits the perfect destination for animal-lovers to meet giraffes, zebras, kangaroo, lemurs, otters, horses, mini cows, and more. Email: office@barnhillpreserve.com Adult swim tickets will cost $280 and child swim tickets will cost $225, with children (10 to 15 years old) paying the same. While in the pool, you are an observer. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Along your journey, the zoo has many play areas for kids, including a splash pad open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. I love my walks to find bugs and frogs, and I enjoy napping anywhere I want. The otters looked happy to interact with the women as they excitedly scurried around them in the pool. The animal sanctuary/resort/wedding venue allows guests to swim in a heated hot tub with two otters adorably named Otto and Sweet Pea for about an hour, the San Antonio Express-News reports. People really love it. Max 6 people (lap riding is OK) 12 months of age and under free 60 minutes Rates $50 per person (March 1 - Nov 30) LEARN MORE BOOK NOW Otter adventure All otter swim encounter tours include the full Barn Hill encounter tour and petting zoo experience prior to the swim. The animal sanctuary/resort/wedding venue allows guests to swim in a heated hot tub with two otters adorably named Otto and Sweet Pea for about an hour, the San Antonio Express-News reports. Be Bound By, Weird & Wonderful Places to Stay in Texas, Your Austin To-Do List: Best May Family Events, Where to Rent Kayaks, Canoes & SUPs on Lady Bird Lake, The Best Family-Friendly Breweries Around Austin, Summertime Green: Great Spots for Teens to Work in Austin. Our otters enjoy meeting new people, they look forward to swimming and interacting with you. This is the only place in Texas and one of six opportunities in the country to swim with these cute creatures. I am the mom to all the animals that live in and around the house. Visitors also have the chance to participate in giraffe feedings during select times throughout the week. Our favorite game is hide and seek. Business is booming for Blue Hills Ranch, thanks to a viral TikTok of one of their most popular attractions: swimming with otters. 1 of 12. Swims are operated daily from 2pm to 5pm, and reservations are required. The BSR Cable Park is home to the longest lazy river in the world. 3. The experience is only available to those 12 and over, with a minimum of two participants and maximum of six people per swim. Camp Fimfo Waco. Just 20 minutes east of downtown Austin, the Zoo is home to over 500 rare and beautiful wild animals. Tickets will sell out quickly, so reserve yours today! Elvis, Garth, Dolly, Wynonna, Naomi, Salt, Pepper, Patsy, Madonna, Pink. The sanctuarys owner, Matt Lieberman, started the project to be able to give animals a forever home in a space thats designed for their needs. I am still trying to figure out my long legs, but you can find me dancing around with my sidekick, Oreo. Come spend 20 minutes swimming and interacting with our baby otters, Kumo and Okami, The world's smartest baby otters! When youre ready to book your visit, check out www.bluehillsranch.com! Otter Creek is home to three North American River Otters: Merlin, Arthur, and Fisher. I spent the entire video wondering if Im being punkd or not, People are willing to wait a very, very long time for their famous Dirty Soda., I got locked on my roof and nobodys available to come help me out. They can be seen from multiple perspectives, whether performing their graceful underwater maneuvers or just napping in the sun after a long swim. Ranches to Experience the Great Outdoors, Take Glamping to the Next Level With These Airstream Airbnb Trailers, The 17 Best Trips Our Travel Editors Took This Year, 10 Adults-only All-inclusive Resorts Around the World. "TikTok has definitely been a big help as far as advertisement wise," Lightfoot said in April 2022. Classic Waco Tour: Best Sites & TV highlights in Waco 2,184 Recommended Bus Tours from $78.00 per adult Amazing Brazos River Sunset Boat Adventure in Waco Texas 20 Recommended Water Tours from $59.00 per adult Waco Wine Tours 13 Recommended from $119.00 per adult Ghost Maker Tour in Georgetown: Adults Only 11 Recommended Walking Tours from $23.95 The ranch offers accommodations in two side-by-side cabins one with a zebra theme and one with giraffe decor. We are called British Whites, better known as the Mickey Mouse cows. Then visit the South America exhibit and see capybara, sun conures, king vultures, squirrel monkeys, giant Galapagos tortoises, scarlet ibis, sloths, and other South American animals. This month, a family of otters at the Lake Waco Wetlands has been getting some public attention, thanks to photos posted online by Lake Waco Park Ranger Mike Champagne and veteran local wildlife . Come To Texas. They turned two years old in March and are Asian small-claw otters, the smallest of all the otter species: they weigh just 10 pounds. The final portion of the experience is a one-of-a-kind chance to swim alongside Asian small-clawed otters in our climate-controlled saltwater pool! $280 per person + taxes and fees, Kids Swims: "They're warmer climate. Our trainers interact with our otters and provide them with enrichment to keep them physically and psychologically healthy. We do not have an observation deck for bystanders to view otter swims, those wanting to participate must purchase a ticket to access the pool. You can actually swim with otters in Texas and TikTok is officially obsessed. The resort offers a special dinner with Giraffes, which lasts one hour and includes a full menu of wine, salad, charcuterie board, and dessert. She's my favorite here. Immerse yourself in a wild journey around the world by adventuring through the Brazos River Country, African Savanna, Asian Rainforest, and much more! Inside Wacos Cameron Park, you'll find a place where the wild things are Cameron Park Zoo. The otters quickly became one of the resort's most popular attractions. I am a Saint Bernard. This interactive experience begins with a 1 hour guided tour of our facility led by our experienced and knowledgeable staff. At the Otter Mill, children can swim with the otters by sliding through the exhibit down a built-in slide. I enjoy playing with the pigs and laying under my tree. We are native to Europe. Swim with otters at Blue Hills Ranch near Waco, Texas! The otter swim is an amazing event. April 6, 2022, 9:42 AM. Sunday vigil, expanded manhunt and more on Cleveland shooting, Shooting survivors: San Jacinto family only sought small favor, FBI briefly releases photo of wrong Francisco Oropeza, Abbott calls Texas shooting victims illegal immigrants', Houston nurses sentenced to federal prison over Medicare scheme, 5 found shot 'execution style' in home in San Jacinto County, Some Galveston County residents 'fed up' with property appraisals, MLB Network's Mark DeRosa hilariously apologizes to Astros, Oxy details its first carbon capture project in West Texas, Astros insider: What we know about Jos Urquidy's injury so far, offers encounters with other animals like giraffes, and camels, Otters take rare swim near downtown portion of Buffalo Bayou after Tropical Storm Nicholas, Galveston ISD superintendent blasted over 'chauvinistic' comments, String of mysterious deaths, precise cuts hit Brazos Valley cows, San Marcos OKs plan for armed marshals in elementary schools, Fort Hood confirms death of second female soldier since March, San Antonio to return looted Roman bust found at Texas Goodwill. Guests must be age 12 or older and all animal encounters are a private VIP experience, meaning appointments are required, according to Blue Hills' website. Katharine Morris is using her environmental activism to raise awareness about public health and the local ecosystem in her neighborhood. No exceptions! Gypsy, Mia, Cash, Misty, Lightning, Smokey, Cisco, Junior, Spirit. In 2000 we were considered extinct by the IUCN. "The lake has easy access for swimming, with a little sandy/mud entrance." more. Coupled with a wedding / event venue and adventures it makes for the perfect destination to stay or just come for the day. You'll feel as though you've. The Capital of Texas Zoo is one of Greater Austin's and Bastrop's most exciting adventures! TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. This increase is a response to protect our otter ambassadors safety as they grow older. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Dine and have an adventure with our tallest friends at Blue Hills Ranch. The owners of Blue Hills Ranch have lots of cool plans in store for the near future including the addition of an RV Resort and some awesome new pirate-themed cabins coming soon. They definitely want to see you up close and personal. You can also stop for a meal at one of the two cafes and visit the Zootique Gift Shop for all of your souvenir and gift giving needs. Blue Hills Ranch & Giraffe Sanctuary in McGregor, TX features 150 acres of beautiful land with rolling hills, ponds, and endless sunset views where a wide variety of animals roam freely. If you have $200 burning a hole in your pocket, why not use it to swim with otters? The prices are definitely worth it. You can take a day trip to enjoy a grand safari tour where the owner of the ranch will drive your family around the property in an open-air safari vehicle to show you ALL of the animals. We spent some extra time with the young giraffes, Google and Blue, and it was truly wonderful! Here, you'll encounter lions, giraffes, elephants, white rhinos, and meerkats. Log In. Luke, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Captain Hook, Wendy, Darling, must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Perhaps thats why otters who live in zoo habitats goof off so much., Simple sidewalk chalk obstacle course is the perfect activity for bored toddlers. We are the prettiest deer out there because of our unique white spots. You can book a private safari tour to meet the animals, or opt for extra special encounters like bottle-feeding young giraffes or swimming with otters. As of May 2021, we implemented a price increase on all of our otter swim tickets. Otters are very playful creatures. Author John Green is officially invested in womans TikTok gym mystery: This is literally great American drama, Have you ever seen how cinnamon is harvested?: TikTok is shocked to learn where cinnamon actually comes from. The King. This is the only place in Texas and one of six opportunities in the . Another popular place to swim in Waco is the BSR Cable Park. Blue Hills Ranch is home to other animals, including mini horses, camels, zebras, bison, kangaroos, emus and mini Scottish highland cows. If you wish to get a more up-close and personal experience you can book extra animal encounters with the giraffes, kangaroo, or mini cows, bison and camel, or an adorable duo of Saint Bernard puppies. There are about 50 of us at Blue Hills Ranch. For $150 to $200, guests at Blue Hills Ranch outside of Waco can hop in a heated hot tub for nearly an hour with two otters, Otto and Sweet Pea. I grew up in California before moving to Texas. The Asian Forest is also home to Sumatran tigers where you can watch these big cats roam their forested habitat. #texascheck #texas #texastravel #bluehillsranch #wacotexas #otters #ottersoftiktok. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We use a state-of-the-art saltwater pool system that is temperature-controlled for both guest's and the otter's comfort level no matter the time of year. The 3-year-old small-clawed otters, the smallest of the otter species, were donated by a couple from California. I am a city girl who has relocated to the country. Other Travel Brochures you may be interested in that are nearby your selection: Texas State Parks near El Paso & Big Bend, Texas State Parks near Abilene, Amarillo & Midland. We are proud to be one of a select few zoological facilities in the US that offer otter swims. I was named after Tonkawa Falls in Crawford, TX. Next, slither over to the Herpetarium and get cozy with the snakes, reptiles, and amphibians that inhabit rainforests and deserts before taking a safari across the African Savanna. Enjoy a private tour of up to 5 people for a luxury private safari only in Texas. Swims are limited so it remains a positive experience for them. For other Air B&B inspiration, check out our roundup of our 10 favorite Air B&Bs in the state. One of the best places to swim with the otters, this swim with otters San Diego cove is a fun weekend outing for the family, and goes above and beyond as far as options to do once you arrive are concerned. The otters are the most popular attraction of the place. Blue Hills Ranch is approximately 20 miles from Waco and offers a unique safari getaway where visitors can swim with otters, feed giraffes, observe donkeys and zebras and more. We play with everyone and loveeee treats. 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402. I am going to show Google the ropes here at Blue Hills and introduce him to all my animal friends. I came to Blue Hills Ranch at just 6 weeks old. Watch these entertaining primates play and communicate! "They're warmer climate," Lightfoot said. Spanning 150 acres in McGregor, Texas, Blue Hills is an animal sanctuary that doubles as a cabin/RV resort and wedding venue. You've probably heard about swimming with dolphins, but what about swimming with otters? You can swim with otters on Blue Hills Ranch, Texas, outside of Waco. Explore the biodiversity of Texas when you step into the Brazos River Country. The Barn Hill Preserve is one of only a few zoos in the United States that allows otter swims. Fish popsicles and shrimp treats are their faves if youre lucky, they may offer toys to you and share their mischievous energy, must be accompanied by an adult at all times. My party of 5 did two otter swims, five encounter tours, and five sipping with sloths. We came to the ranch November of 2021. You must be at least 12 years of age to swim with Sweet Pea and Otto, and 18 years old to go to most animal activities (minors must be accompanied by an adult). They're also spoiled so they have to have that perfect temperature," Lightfoot said. No smoking or open flames on Ranch property, Outside animals are not allowed outside RV Area, Children under 18 years of agemust be accompanied by an adult at all times, Wild animals are present, death or injury can occur, Liability Waiver must be signed by all visitors prior to entering the Ranch. The swim with otters have become popular on social media, and the Ranchs Instagram shows adorable videos of the otters interacting with staff and guests.If swimming with otters isnt quite your speed, the resort has other unique animal experiences. This website relies on Javascript to function properly. Railbiking Is a New Adventurous Way to Experience Train Travel Here Are the Best Places to Try It in the U.S. 5 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for the Ultimate Care-Free Vacation, 11 European Castles to Spend the Night Like a Royal, 15 Trips You Need to Take as Soon as You Retire, 11 Most Beautiful Lakes in the United States, 10 Farm Stays in the U.S. to Get in Touch With Nature and Animals, 50 Best Romantic Getaways for a Couples Trip, 12 Best Caribbean Islands for Couples Who Want White Sand, Gourmet Food, and Private Resorts, Can't-miss Places to Visit in Australia, According to Australians.