Like many wildlife refuges, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge was formed out of necessity; many wild animals are illegally or improperly kept in private homes, then abandoned. They can't go back into the wild, so they need somewhere to stay where they can be cared for properly and kept safe. For Turpentine Creek, that fateful time came in 1991, when a black-market wild-animal dealer on the run from the law showed up at the lion-owning Jackson family's home with three trailers full of big cats. Scrambling, the family found a ranch for them to stay, then moved them to a 500-acre parcel that's now Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and they've been involved with the refuge ever since.

The refuge now cares for dozens of tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, and bears, offering them a lifetime home. And it shows its work, encouraging proper treatment of wildlife, by inviting visitors to come in. Guides offer half-mile walking and trolley tours that pass by the habitats, showing the animals as they eat, play, and snooze and offering facts about the animals. Those looking for a longer visit can stay overnight at a number of suites, safari lodges, RV/tent spots, and even a tree house bungalow, each allowing guests to hear the animals calling out during the night and morning. And the refuge also opens for special events such as picnics, concerts, and even Halloween parties.

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