One of our New Year’s resolutions was to plan more family dates, and what better way to start than a trip to our local petting zoo, Eudora Farms, also known as Eudora Wildlife Safari Park in Salley, SC. The kids and I visited about two years ago when my son was into cows, but he ended up not enjoying the experience as much as I hoped he would. For the last few weeks, he’s been asking to see the animals, so off we go!

Eudora Farms is a drive-thru safari filled with exotic animals! Located just outside Columbia, SC, you’ll head to the countryside for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! You can purchase your tickets online or pay at the gate. At that time, you’ll be able to buy food to feed the animals - DO NOT bring food to feed the animals.

We were also given a guide listing animals and descriptions for each.

It’s entirely up to you how engaged you wish to be with the animals. Some people ride through and look, while others bring a pick-up truck and sit on the back to pet the animals. We got our whole gang and let our littlest one sit in the front to access a window for feeding.

Tips for Visiting Eudora Farms

Pack Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

If you plan to feed the animals, you will want to wipe your hands after petting. Some animals will have dirt and drool you want to wash off. There is a handwashing station before you exit located near the outdoor park area, along with portable restrooms.

Honk if you need help!

Thankfully, we’ve never had to do this but only honk if you need the assistance of a staff member. The animals will eventually move as you drive.

No petting or feeding the Zebras.

While Zebras are cute, they are unpredictable. Please do not feed them or pet them. Once you go through the second gate, you’ll see many of them. I had the kids roll up the windows to avoid engaging with them.

Beware of the Camels and Ostriches

I never expected camels to be so aggressive, but they are! These camels are friendly but hungry; they will come to your car in a heartbeat and stick their head through the window - no personal space! The ostriches bite, so be careful, and they can run.

Visit the walk-around petting zoo.

You will need to make a right into the parking lot to access this portion of the park. They have a few animals that you can pet and feed. It’s a pleasant experience if you want to get out and enjoy an up-close visit.