Seacrest Wolf Preserve
Seacrest Wolf Preserve
4.5
About
Seacrest Wolf Preserve, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization located in Northwest Florida that has been dedicated to wolf and wildlife conservation through science-based educational tours for over 2 decades. Seacrest Wolf Preserve works to build bridges of greater understanding and respect for wolves, and create greater awareness of this important keystone species through our profound educational programs. Seacrest Wolf Preserve currently has over a dozen Ambassador Wolves that work along side our education team to help teach the public about their species and their vital role in the environment. Through our wolves, Seacrest teaches the broader message of conservation, ecological balance, and personal responsibility for improved human stewardship of our World.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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4.5
252 reviews
Excellent
196
Very good
25
Average
13
Poor
10
Terrible
8
Roseann
4 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
Our trip to Seacrest Wolf Preserve was amazing far beyond our expectations!!
We were able to interact with 10 different wolves in four different enclosures. Each wolf was equally attentive and loving and fun to play with! I loved their intimate interaction. iasha in particular really seemed to like my hair, and at one point scent marked my head! I felt so honored. We got lots and lots of kisses, and the wolves were receptive to us kissing them.
They were much more affectionate and playful than I anticipated. And of course to be in their presence during their howling sessions was even more phenomenal and special!!
Lindsey and her mother were very informative and great guides. Lindsey took the photos for us during our VIP tour. She captured the most memorable photos and video we could have ever hoped for!!
I would like to also mention that Lindsey and the staff were very helpful in even the pre-planning of our trip; picking out the best date for the VIP tour, assistance with the hotel and airport selection. I really appreciated and valued their time and attention to the details. I flew in from the Washington DC area ,and my friend flew all the way from San Francisco, California. The sole purpose of our trip was to visit Seacrest Wolf Preserve in Florida ,and then return home. Just our 2 hour VIP experience with the wolves at Seacrest was worth all our travel time, efforts and expenses , without a doubt!! We will certainly cherish our memories for a lifetime!! That's not to say returning in the near future isn't a possibility!!
We were able to interact with 10 different wolves in four different enclosures. Each wolf was equally attentive and loving and fun to play with! I loved their intimate interaction. iasha in particular really seemed to like my hair, and at one point scent marked my head! I felt so honored. We got lots and lots of kisses, and the wolves were receptive to us kissing them.
They were much more affectionate and playful than I anticipated. And of course to be in their presence during their howling sessions was even more phenomenal and special!!
Lindsey and her mother were very informative and great guides. Lindsey took the photos for us during our VIP tour. She captured the most memorable photos and video we could have ever hoped for!!
I would like to also mention that Lindsey and the staff were very helpful in even the pre-planning of our trip; picking out the best date for the VIP tour, assistance with the hotel and airport selection. I really appreciated and valued their time and attention to the details. I flew in from the Washington DC area ,and my friend flew all the way from San Francisco, California. The sole purpose of our trip was to visit Seacrest Wolf Preserve in Florida ,and then return home. Just our 2 hour VIP experience with the wolves at Seacrest was worth all our travel time, efforts and expenses , without a doubt!! We will certainly cherish our memories for a lifetime!! That's not to say returning in the near future isn't a possibility!!
Written April 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dennis Q
Atlanta, GA99 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
If you’re in the Panama City or Destin beach areas make your way to visit the Wolf preserve. It was an amazing time seeing these majestic animals 🐺. So cool to hear all of them howling! They’re very friendly and they love being petted. Just make sure you don’t wear anything nice as the love to rub and paw you lol
Written November 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
melissa b
Pensacola, FL4 contributions
Jul 2021
We went last year for my daughter's 11th birthday. She is obsessed with wolves and I know this will be something she will remember the rest of her life. We did the VIP tour and it was definitely worth the price. Having the one on one time with the wolves and the guides was definitely a must for us. The wolves are just like big dogs climbing on you and wanting attention and giving kisses. My daughter still talks about it and says she wants to go every year for her birthday. For me it was a little hot, so we may do it in the cooler months rather than her July birthday, but will definitely be something we do again.
Written February 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FrequentTraveler2Pax
Niceville, FL29 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
We are disappointed in the direction Seacrest Wolf Preserve has taken in the past few years.
We used to visit when Wayne and Cynthia ran the operation from some pens near their house. At that time, they emphasized education for the public, and would sometimes visit local schools with their wolf ambassadors to educate the students.
Even when the new, larger compounds were built, Wayne and Cynthia and their volunteers would conducted multiple tours of small groups on Saturdays with an educational emphasis. We frequently camped there to howl with the wolves at night. Our children and grandchildren were always welcomed. We were allowed to take high-quality pictures of the wolves in their natural surroundings, which we provided freely to the Preserve. We gave large yearly donations to keep up their program.
But after Wayne’s death and Cynthia’s turnover of management to a new group, the emphasis has seemingly shifted to profit-making rather than education. Tours are now limited to “VIP tours” which cost $500 minimum for two people, and $125 for each additional person. Picture-taking is strictly controlled with a prohibition even during the VIP tours against taking pictures of the wolves without people in the image.
We understand that it is expensive to operate the Preserve, but it’s definitely not the same experience, and it’s doubtful that we’ll be back.
We used to visit when Wayne and Cynthia ran the operation from some pens near their house. At that time, they emphasized education for the public, and would sometimes visit local schools with their wolf ambassadors to educate the students.
Even when the new, larger compounds were built, Wayne and Cynthia and their volunteers would conducted multiple tours of small groups on Saturdays with an educational emphasis. We frequently camped there to howl with the wolves at night. Our children and grandchildren were always welcomed. We were allowed to take high-quality pictures of the wolves in their natural surroundings, which we provided freely to the Preserve. We gave large yearly donations to keep up their program.
But after Wayne’s death and Cynthia’s turnover of management to a new group, the emphasis has seemingly shifted to profit-making rather than education. Tours are now limited to “VIP tours” which cost $500 minimum for two people, and $125 for each additional person. Picture-taking is strictly controlled with a prohibition even during the VIP tours against taking pictures of the wolves without people in the image.
We understand that it is expensive to operate the Preserve, but it’s definitely not the same experience, and it’s doubtful that we’ll be back.
Written February 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brooke W
Myrtle Beach, SC123 contributions
Dec 2019
The private VIP tour was a gift from my husband for our 15th wedding anniversary ... and I don't know how he is going to top that!
Alex and her team briefed us first on what to expect from the wolves; and then she and her team spent the next 2 hours with us in several different wolf enclosures.
Apart from marrying my husband, this would have to be the most momentous experience I have ever had. Interacting one on one with the wolves was amazing and so extremely humbling. They are gracious, regal, all knowing animals and just like humans, they instinctively know who is a good soul.
Unlike a previous reviewer, I understand why they don't allow you to take photos. I think it would be frightening for the wolves to have cameras in their faces. Instead, we gave Alex's assistant our iPhones and she snapped hundreds of photos of both of us interacting with the wolves.
This is an amazing place and Alex and her team do absolutely incredible work to nurture the wolves. Alex even explained that they had to take one of the female pups and give it to another wolf pack to raise, as the mother, who is the Alpha female of the pack, was threatened by her pup and tried to kill it.
I cannot say enough about the Seacrest Wolf Preserve. My husband and I left and we both agreed that this was not a one time visit. We will definitely plan to go back, more than once.
I will say this, however. This is a place to visit if you love wolves, but you have to remember that wolves are wild animals. You can not 'make' them do anything, nor should you want to. If the wolves react positively to you, that's great, but like humans, we do not all like everyone.
This is not a zoo, and the wolves are not there for your amusement. Seacrest believes in educating people about wolves, so please keep that in mind when you plan a visit.
We humans can learn so much from the wolves and the wolf packs, if we open our eyes.
Thanks Alex. So much.
Alex and her team briefed us first on what to expect from the wolves; and then she and her team spent the next 2 hours with us in several different wolf enclosures.
Apart from marrying my husband, this would have to be the most momentous experience I have ever had. Interacting one on one with the wolves was amazing and so extremely humbling. They are gracious, regal, all knowing animals and just like humans, they instinctively know who is a good soul.
Unlike a previous reviewer, I understand why they don't allow you to take photos. I think it would be frightening for the wolves to have cameras in their faces. Instead, we gave Alex's assistant our iPhones and she snapped hundreds of photos of both of us interacting with the wolves.
This is an amazing place and Alex and her team do absolutely incredible work to nurture the wolves. Alex even explained that they had to take one of the female pups and give it to another wolf pack to raise, as the mother, who is the Alpha female of the pack, was threatened by her pup and tried to kill it.
I cannot say enough about the Seacrest Wolf Preserve. My husband and I left and we both agreed that this was not a one time visit. We will definitely plan to go back, more than once.
I will say this, however. This is a place to visit if you love wolves, but you have to remember that wolves are wild animals. You can not 'make' them do anything, nor should you want to. If the wolves react positively to you, that's great, but like humans, we do not all like everyone.
This is not a zoo, and the wolves are not there for your amusement. Seacrest believes in educating people about wolves, so please keep that in mind when you plan a visit.
We humans can learn so much from the wolves and the wolf packs, if we open our eyes.
Thanks Alex. So much.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JP2012San
74 contributions
Dec 2019
I loved my visit to this One of a Kind place. I can't really add to the other 4 and 5 star reviews (because I concur that it is a VERY cool place and I loved my visit there) other than to say that you definitely need to be aware that these are NOT dogs and know your limitations. Some of the wolves are very playful and very BIG and if they want to jump on you they absolutely will. One of the wolves jumped up on me from behind (just playing, doing what wolves do) and either his canine or claw caught me on top of my head and left a bloody scratch across my scalp. You sign a very long disclaimer/ hold harmless just for this very reason. If you are elderly or have mobility issues etc this may not be the tour for you.
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura S
2 contributions
Aug 2022
The folks running Seacrest Wolf Preserve worked so passionately to make sure we had a great experience. Being a family of 7, we were looking for something different in the Panama City Beach area and found this hidden gem. Our youngest teenager is interested in becoming a vet, so we were especially looking forward to this outing.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but we were sure excited. There is a dress code to follow and they have rules to keep everyone safe. Things were always explained beforehand. Being around the wolves and petting them was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One even imprinted on our youngest daughter.
The wolves are captivating to watch and look at. One staff member had our phone and took lots of pictures for us.
By the end of the tour we had learned all about wolves. The lady who runs the preserve, Lindsey, encouraged questions. I don't think we could have asked a question that would have stumped her. We had an amazing time with this being one of the highlights of our vacation. I can't recommend this tour enough.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but we were sure excited. There is a dress code to follow and they have rules to keep everyone safe. Things were always explained beforehand. Being around the wolves and petting them was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One even imprinted on our youngest daughter.
The wolves are captivating to watch and look at. One staff member had our phone and took lots of pictures for us.
By the end of the tour we had learned all about wolves. The lady who runs the preserve, Lindsey, encouraged questions. I don't think we could have asked a question that would have stumped her. We had an amazing time with this being one of the highlights of our vacation. I can't recommend this tour enough.
Written September 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MaryKat1323
Elk Grove Village, IL5 contributions
Feb 2022
Three years ago I visited the Seacrest Wolf Preserve on my Birthday and it was the best gift I ever gave myself!! So much so, that I did it again on my Birthday this year!!! My boyfriend and I did the 2 hour VIP package. It is an experience of a lifetime to get to spend time with these amazing animals. You literally become part of the pack. They are so friendly, playful and loving. The staff is also amazing. Thank you Lindsey and Annette for all of the amazing pictures you took and all of the information about the wolves. You haven't lived until you've looked a wolf in the eyes!! :) Thank you Seacrest!!
Written February 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tah
Jacksonville Beach, FL98 contributions
Feb 2023 • Family
These people seem to take very good care of and love the wild life at the facility. They educated us about the wolves and their behaviors and relationships. They were fun and outgoing and the wolves were so special.
When we first got there we were told by a sign to wait for someone. We waited a long while and pulled up to the front. We were greeted by a frustrated person that we did that. We were just afraid we were going to lose our slot. We didn’t know and they wouldn’t answer the phones. Our bad, I suppose.
We had a group of six. It cost $913 and change. The kids loved it and it was a birthday gift. Worth it.
After the first enclosure they took us back to the ghost shop for a snack and a drink and then we went on to the other two. The third was cut a little short bc the wolves got feisty. (The ladies are in heat this time of year and many were separated.)
All and all… awesome experience. Pretty decent people! Would highly recommend.
When we first got there we were told by a sign to wait for someone. We waited a long while and pulled up to the front. We were greeted by a frustrated person that we did that. We were just afraid we were going to lose our slot. We didn’t know and they wouldn’t answer the phones. Our bad, I suppose.
We had a group of six. It cost $913 and change. The kids loved it and it was a birthday gift. Worth it.
After the first enclosure they took us back to the ghost shop for a snack and a drink and then we went on to the other two. The third was cut a little short bc the wolves got feisty. (The ladies are in heat this time of year and many were separated.)
All and all… awesome experience. Pretty decent people! Would highly recommend.
Written February 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kimberly M
Niceville, FL16 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
I went with my extended family to Chipley with little idea of what to expect. It turned out to be a remarkable day. We participated in the Saturday group tour and enjoyed every minute , although the wind made it a little too cold and the wolves were antsy from their recent trauma from hurricane Michael. They still freely interacted (when they wanted) with the group and were thrilling to watch even from a distance. I would happily do this again (with an extra layer of clothes).
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TrailBlazer199627
Yulee, FL
A good contact number for reservations as number on website just goes to voicemail
Keri S
Naples, Florida, United States37 contributions
Just leave a message; your call will be returned.
It's good idea to camp in a tent with the family in the camping area?
Doug H
Clearwater, FL47 contributions
Yes it is perfectly safe and comfy
richardsummerford
Pensacola, FL
My family and I have been trying to get ahold wolf preserve to make a reservation but no answer and no call back I'm in town on Saturday 6/16/18 can we make a reservation on site or are we just out of luck
Andrew D
New Orleans, LA61 contributions
You cannot make reservations on site.
lady_66_mustang
1 contribution
Hi will be open in Aug 1st week and how much is the tickets and VIP tickets can we order in advance and what is the best time to go. Thank you for your time
JHall1030
Orlando, FL112 contributions
There website has all the info you'll need. Be persistant when calling to make reservation, because they really busy and have volunteers answering calls. Leave a message and they'll call you back. May take several times but you will get through! It's worth it!
VIP: for 2ppl $500
Sat tours: $35 per person (well worth it!!)
Aug its hot but Fall months are better. My family and I went in March, was cooler and great camping weather!
Jiggles84
7 contributions
We have tried calling and emailing the preserve but no joy and you only get a generic email back. can you do the tour of you are pregnant?
Joanne J
Fort Lauderdale, FL29 contributions
It is mostly volunteer based so their return calls are not immediate. It took almost 5 days for them to return my many voice messages.
I do not know about the pregnant part.
How long is the tour? Can we pack a lunch? What about water bottles?
Maria S
72 contributions
It was about 4 hour tour with a hour break they have a snack shack serving burgers and hot dogs nachos ect.... But you can also bring lunch all food and drinks like bottle waters must be consumed on the outside of the wolves housing but they have picnic tables and seating available. Hope this helped
Bec W
Copacabana, Australia1 contribution
Hi,
We would love to visit the wold reserve,
could you please advise me of to best way to get there as im from Australia and will be coming to Orlando in January, is there an airport nearby? or do we have to drive?
thanks
Bec
SeacrestWolf
Chipley, FL
Hi Bec!! So sorry for the late response.. we've been so busy and overwhelmed with the extreme sudden growth of Seacrest Wolf Preserve. I would definitely recommend flying into Panama City Beach Florida airport. It is the closest airport to the wolf preserve and is only about 35 miles away. If you have any other questions that we can help you with, please feel free to call us at 8507732897.
the website says no cell phones in the enclosures. can i have my cell phone on campgrounds at all, or do i need to leave it elsewhere?
mikesth
Houston191 contributions
Howdy. I agree with the above post - cell phones out of the enclosures, but disposables are allowed. Disposables can be purchased at the store onsite. We've found over the years that the professional photos available for purchase after the tour yield much better quality and are worth the money. These are purchased after review in the gift shop and are on a thumb drive. Realize, no one is making huge profits, the funds go toward the wolves and preserve. Keep your cellphone handy though as it is perfectly acceptable for the wolf pup encounters and the small animal enclosure - you will want to take photos at these two locations. Hope that helps.
Christy H
White Bluff, TN54 contributions
We are wanting to take our niece when come come to visit in June, but we are bringing our travel trailer. We are going to Panama City beach, and hoping to stop by on our way home, but didn't know if parking would accommodate our 21 ft trailer.
Sonworshipper
Niceville, FL447 contributions
Yes, they have plenty of room and will allow you to camp overnight in their grassy lot. There is also a restroom but I don't think it has showers. Hope this helps.
Cost and days open
cor
FL3 contributions
$25 per person and the tour is on Saturday. You can find more answers at the Seacrest Wolf Preserve website: Sorry they won't let me post the website.
Seacrest Wolf Preserve (Chipley) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Seacrest Wolf Preserve
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