Tri-State Zoological Park

10105 Cottage Inn Ln NE, Cumberland, MD 21502, USA

Address:	10105 Cottage Inn Ln NE, Cumberland, MD 21502, USA
Phone:	+1 301-724-2400
Rating:	2.6
Working:	10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 10

Jesse Poteet

Im not sure why so many people are rating this place 1 star without having all the facts. First of all, this isnt really a zoo in the traditional sense. The animals that are kept here are ones that were held as pets until the animal got too big to keep or that the owner simply got bored and wanted to get rid of the animal. So Bob (the owner) took the animal in. Secondly, some of these animals here were moved here FROM a zoo (like the one in DC, for example) because they couldnt take care of it, or didnt want to. Many of these animals had nowhere else to go, but they have a home here and are well cared for. I was lucky enough to meet the owner while I was there and its truly inspiring how much thought, care, and attention he gives to the animals. The way the animals interact with him is incredible. There was a duck named Pip, that followed us around the entire time Bob was with us. Pip is awesome and gets a little jealous when he doesnt get enough attention from Bob, which is hilarious to see. The mountain lion behaved like a house cat when Bob was near and one of the tigers would roll around on his back as Bob walked by. The zoo doesnt have the luxury of government subsidies and survives on donations from the community and kind-hearted visitors who can see past the reclaimed wood fences and into the heart of why this zoo exists - to take care of animals that no one else can or will. I urge anyone who visits to take a moment and interact with the staff here. Ask questions and listen to the stories behind the animals. I did and it made the trip all the more worthwhile and I cant wait to go back.

Evelyn Wang

Before going to this zoo, you need to understand that they did not go out and captured these animals to put them into a cage for their collection or to show off to you. They actually rescued them from abandonment and negligence. Most of these animals are from people who illegally own them and didn’t want them after a while. Some were completely neglected or abandoned since the owners moved on with their lives. Some have birth defects and were left to die. The owner, Bob, took all of them into his care and provided them with everything he has. When Bob walked by the mountain lion, the mountain lion immediately started to purr. You cannot fake the love and trust between them. Since this zoo is not funded by the government (by donation and his life saving), it is not glamorous in any way. However, if you really look, the stories behind each rescue, the volunteers there to work for a good cause, and the trust between the animals and the people working there are truly beautiful.

Mike McGowan

I gave it one star because you cant go any lower for submission. This place has some disgusting conditions for some animals, there is the poor tigers confined to their cage that have to deal with murky pools of putrid liquid (water?) that are obviously not taken care of and is probably a health hazard to these animals (as well as humans!- EVER HEARD OF ZEIKA people!!!!). In addition, some the animals are going mad due to forced captivity and the inability of the zoo to provide an environment even close to what they need for a half way decent life in captivity- One monkey had pulled out his own hair in frustration. A place to visit unless you want to see how horrible man can force nature to submit to his harsh rule... very sad

Shannon Scheaffer

The outside looks like a dump but there are some interesting animals to see. There are cats, rabbits, peacocks, ducks, and geese running loose throughout the park. Some of the geese aggressively chased us and wouldnt allow us to pass into a certain part of the zoo. There was feces all over the park from these animals and even while watching where you step, you come out with it all over your shoes. Some of the animals are missing fur but other than that look to be in good condition. The animal enclosures are unkempt. The reptile house had dirty litter boxes strewn about. We were greeted by an employee who was very nice. It is worth a look into the zoo but keep expectations low.

Johnette Stanford

I believe people should do their homework before writing a review. With that said, this place from he outside looks to be run down and not well managed. However, after you spend the time looking, watching the animals, and talking to the staff you will soon realize these animals are very well taken care of. Its a rescue place for animals that people have neglected, couldnt care for, or no longer wanted. The owner does a great job caring for the animals. This establishment is a non-profit organization, caring for the unwanted. Take the time and actually SEE the zoo. Find out how you can help the organization before TRYING to shut it down.

Mike P

Some of these people need to research this place before making some of the nasty comments. The people running this place are doing such a great thing with what they have to work with. Its a non-profit zoo and support the animals from donations only and their own money. Taking the animals in from people owning them illegally. The first time going had an amazing time. Its not state funded so its not the Washington or Baltimore zoo. That being said they can only do so much without the help from donations. Well worth the visit. Will go back for sure.

Brittany Goodman

Went here with my kids it was enjoyable. The staff were very friendly and helpful answered all the questions we had. My son loved the area where you can walk around and feed the animals. The enclosures are not what you would see in a major zoo with a staff to support it. That being said I was disappointed at some of the overall cleanliness and general appearance of several enclosures. Know doubt in my mind the owner is trying to do the best he can with what resources he has. But he needs help.

wmfinch

If you enjoy innocent creatures writhing in miserable conditions, you will love this place. If you want to see a monkey so miserable he pulls his own hair out of his head in sheer misery, you will love this place. If you want to be involved with owners and operators who make a living and pay their bills at the expense of the comfort of innocent creatures, you will love this place. If you want to mock the AUTHOR OF LIFE, you will love this place.

Lena Portillo

The animals (many of which are rescues) are well cared for, extremely friendly, and clearly comfortable. Although the buildings are run down, the animals are whats important. The zoo has also taken in some stray cats who are not shy and will practically hop in your car to say hello. All funds received are clearly going towards the animals, people comforts are not the priority, which is ok with me. Wear shoes you dont mind getting poop on...

Bianca DM

Tri-State has repeatedly failed to maintain clean and safe enclosures and to provide animals with adequate veterinary care and adequate shelter from the wind and cold temperatures. The USDA has cited this roadside zoo so many times for failing to meet even the most minimal animal-welfare standards that it suspended Tri-State’s license in 2013 and recently issued an official warning regarding even more violations.