Local guide · Jacksonville
Lynnwood Park Zoo
Lynnwood Park Zoo is a small, veteran-owned animal sanctuary that has cared for surrendered and rescued animals since 1990. A shaded walking trail passes more than 50 habitats, including foxes, monkeys, a wallaby, dingoes and an emu.
Why families go
Think nature trail with animals rather than big-city zoo. Families with young children like that it’s manageable and unhurried, and that they can buy a bag of feed for the animals that are allowed to eat it. The owner and staff get warm mentions. Some visitors feel certain enclosures are small, so it suits families who know they’re visiting a modest rescue sanctuary.
Don’t miss
- Silver and fennec foxesAmong the visitor favorites.
- Monkeys and the wallabyAlong the shaded trail.
- Feeding timeBuy a small bag of feed for the animals that may have it.
Photos: Lynnwood Park Zoo
Before you go
- Open to the public Friday through Monday only; last ticket at 4 p.m.
- It’s all outdoors: bring water and bug spray. There’s no food for sale, but there are picnic tables. No pets.
- Use NC 210 and US 17. NC 172 through Camp Lejeune is closed to civilians without base credentials, even if your GPS suggests it.
Plan your visit
- Where: 1071 Wells Rd., Jacksonville, NC 28540
- From Topsail: About 45 minutes from central Surf City via NC 210 and US 17.
- Hours: Friday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry 4 p.m.).
- Admission: Paid (adult and child rates); card purchases carry a fee.
- Official site: lynnwoodparkzoo.com
- More nearby: more family fun in Jacksonville
A short drive from the island. Browse our Topsail Island vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.
Based on official information from the attraction and on recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Hours, seasons and prices change, so confirm before you go.