Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a large-cat sanctuary in the Ozark hills south of Eureka Springs, caring for tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, and other big cats rescued from illegal captivity, roadside zoos, and abusive situations. The refuge takes in animals that have no prospect of reintroduction to the wild and provides them with permanent naturalistic habitats. It is one of the larger accredited big cat sanctuaries in the United States.
Visitors can walk the property on guided tours, passing the large outdoor habitats and learning about each animal's history. The refuge also offers overnight glamping accommodations — cabins and a lodge — so you can hear the cats calling at night from your bed. Tours leave regularly throughout the day; arrive early in the morning when the cats are most active. The refuge is about 9 miles south of central Eureka Springs.