The zoo is one of the oldest municipal zoos in Wisconsin, having been established in 1926.
The facility is entirely managed and maintained by the City of Baraboo Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department.
The grounds feature native Wisconsin flora that are maintained to provide enrichment for the animals and shade for guests.
Many of the zoo's residents are animals that cannot be released back into the wild due to injury or permanent health conditions.
The zoo's layout takes advantage of the natural topography of the Baraboo River valley.
Ochsner Park Zoo is a municipal zoo located within a larger 30-acre public park in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Established in 1926, it operates as a small-scale, community-focused facility emphasizing local and exotic animal exhibits. The zoo is situated along the banks of the Baraboo River, utilizing the natural landscape for its animal habitats. Visitors can view a diverse collection of species, including cougars, bald eagles, and various waterfowl. The site is integrated into the city's recreational infrastructure, offering proximity to playgrounds and picnic areas. It is designed for walking tours that typically take under two hours to complete. The park serves as a hub for local wildlife education and public outdoor engagement in Sauk County.
The elevated viewing area near the cougar exhibit providing a backdrop of the wooded riverbank.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Ochsner Park's extensive trail network.
Bring binoculars to get a clearer look at the raptor habitats.
Visit during the spring or fall when animal activity is higher due to cooler temperatures.
Do not attempt to interact with or touch the animals, as it causes them unnecessary stress; avoid visiting during extreme mid-day heat when many animals seek shelter.
Operates seasonally; typically closed during the winter months when the park is inaccessible to vehicles.
Maintain a quiet demeanor near animal enclosures, keep dogs on a leash in the surrounding park areas, and strictly refrain from feeding the animals.
