The Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience and was my family’s favorite part of the trip to Lancaster.
Located about 30-minutes outside the center of Lancaster, the sanctuary’s mission is clear – to save the wolf population.
Where the Wolves Come From
The sanctuary is not a breeding facility; almost all the males are neutered. The sanctuary’s mission is to rescue and house wolves that would otherwise be euthanized.
The wolves come from across the U.S. and Canada and spend the remainder of their lives at the sanctuary.
What to Expect During Your Visit
I was surprised to learn that wolves do not harm people. Humans rank higher on the food chain and quite frankly, they don’t like our odor.
Wolves are not pets, so don’t expect the experience to be a petting zoo.
However, you will come within a few feet of these gorgeous animals safely between two fences.
When it’s mating season, don’t be frightened if you hear aggressive males scoffing at each other. That’s normal!
The smallest pack consists of two wolves with the largest pack containing 11 wolves.
Volunteer guides are stationed at each pack to educate the public and answer questions.
While the wolf packs are positioned in close radius, there is one difficult hill if you choose to see this particular pack. The ground requires jogging strollers to maneuver safely. Appropriate walking shoes are a necessity.
Along with wolf tours, there is also music, food, and entertainment.
I recommend the sanctuary for ages 8 and up.
Wolf Tours
I highly recommend taking one of the Wolf Sanctuary tours, which take about 60-90 minutes so you can learn more about the wolves. It really enhances the experience.
Before heading out, the sanctuary serves complimentary hot tea and chocolate.
Events at the Wolf Sanctuary
Full Moon Fundraiser is a special event that takes place only once per month. It is an age-restricted event (open to ages 16+ only).
The features of this event include:
- A bonfire
- Guided tours
- Information about wolf conservation and biology
What to bring for this event:
- A blanket
- A flashlight
- A chair
- Warm, non-alcoholic drink
The event lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours, and starts in the evening by 7 30PM.
The cost of the Full Moon Fundraiser is $35 per person.
The Gift Shop
The small gift shop wasn’t opened when we were there, but there were nice trinkets for children highlighting the very wolves that call the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania home.
Tickets & Pricing
The pricing is different for each tour.
- The pricing for Guided Public Tours starts from $13
- For Private Tours, the pricing starts from $45.
- Pricing for Wolf Awareness Day which is on 14th October starts from $15.
If applicable, ask about a military discount.
When to Go
The sanctuary is open year round. Guided tours are availabld during the week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as on the weekends.
Private tours are only available on Saturdays and Sundays only.
If you decide to come in the fall, in early October, the sanctuary celebrates Wolf Awareness Day.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Photography is allowed, but videography is prohibited.
- Make sure to wear walking shoes, no open-toed shoes
- Tours are held rain, snow or shine
- The sanctuary is run by donations, ticket sales, and all-volunteer staff who clearly have a passion for these beautiful creatures.
- Tours occur on the weekends at a specific time.
- Due to the heavy amount of tourists, arrive 30 minutes ahead of the tour time. If you arrive 10 minutes after the start of a tour, the entrance gate will close to the public. Guests are asked to sign a parking waiver.
- Depending on the time of year, tours begin at either 10 am or noon.
- The only bathrooms are portable toilets.
Getting There & Parking
The Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania is located at 465 Speedwell Forge Rd, Lititz, PA 17543. You will have no trouble parking on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many wolves are in the wolf sanctuary of PA?
Wolf Sanctuary of PA has 50+ wolves and wolf-dogs which you can see on a guided tour.
Are there any wild wolves in Pennsylvania?
There are no wild wolves in Pennsylvania, however, you can see 50+ wolves in Pennslyvania at the Wolves Sanctuary of PA in Lititz. The wolves come from around the US and Canada.
How large is the Wolf sanctuary of PA?
The Wolf Sanctuary of PA sits on 80-acres of woodland where the wolves can explore.
Who runs the Wolf Sanctuary of PA?
The non-profit organization is run by The Darlington family who also operates a Bed and Breakfast on site.
