ST. CLOUD, Fla. – Step into a place where compassion leads the way. Central Florida Animal Reserve is home to lions, tigers, leopards, and cougars, and it operates as a sanctuary rather than a zoo or theme park. Its primary mission is to address the challenges big cats face now and, in the future, while offering meaningful experiences for visitors and supporters today.
Entering its 30th year, the reserve has cared for more than 100 animals. The organization provides safe, long-term homes for big cats that have nowhere else to go. Many of these animals arrived through rescues and transfers; today the reserve continues to help resident populations and supports broader conservation efforts across the country.
Animal care is the largest part of the reserve’s work. That means feeding, maintaining enclosures, monitoring veterinary health, and providing enrichment that keeps the animals physically and mentally active. While two full-time staff members are central to operations, the reserve is highly volunteer driven — and welcomes help from the community.
Big cats in the wild face constant challenges: hunting, securing territory, and avoiding hazards. Their lives in nature are often shorter and more precarious. Under attentive human care, however, sanctuary residents can enjoy longer, healthier lives — some at the reserve have lived into their early to mid-20s. This extended lifespan reflects the daily veterinary care, tailored diets, and focused attention the staff and volunteers provide.
Visitors are invited to engage with the reserve through a range of weekend experiences. The reserve offers five different tour opportunities between noon and 4 PM, including family-friendly walks, behind-the-scenes tours, and private, small-group experiences for those who want a more intimate visit. Special events, such as the annual Sip & Stroll in October, pair storytelling about the cats with themed refreshments for an evening of education and community.
No prior big-cat experience is required to volunteer! Volunteers assist with feedings, enclosure upkeep, basic health observations, and enrichment activities. The reserve also relies on donations and community partnerships to grow and sustain its mission; as a nonprofit, it invites supporters to share the value of the sanctuary through gifts, time, and advocacy.
Big cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diets are meat-based and vary by age, species, weight, and health. At the reserve, feeding plans are individualized: some smaller or elderly cats may receive as little as 1.5 pounds of food at a meal, while larger, younger animals may require 12 to 14 pounds. These tailored diets help maintain optimal health and quality of life for each resident.
Although the sanctuary is not the animals’ native habitat, it offers a safe place where they can live out their lives with dignity. The reserve aims to be a beacon where people can engage with wildlife authentically and thoughtfully, learn about conservation challenges, and consider how community action can make a difference.
Central Florida Animal Reserve welcomes visitors on weekends with multiple tour options. Whether you come for a family outing, a private tour, or an educational event, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for these magnificent animals and the work that goes into protecting them.
To learn more about tours, volunteer opportunities, or ways to support the reserve, check their website at