A Peaceful Morning Adventure Just Across the State Line
An easy 30-minute drive from Cecil County — hands-on animal rescue encounters.
Live Zoo Status
Connecting to the main gates...
Looking for something unique to do with the family today? Did you know Delaware's only rescue and education sanctuary is just a beautiful 30-minute drive from Elkton and Chesapeake City? Cross the state line and escape into the quiet farm country of Townsend.
Meet our friendly rescued llamas and sheep, observe rescued foxes and native birds of prey, and visit Mr. Smee at Delaware’s only live American alligator exhibit!
What to Expect: We are proud to be a rugged, authentic rescue sanctuary. You won't find commercialized, paved walkways here. Instead, you'll experience a true farm environment with free-roaming rescued ducks, dirt paths, and incredible up-close encounters with our gentle rescued llamas, sheep, and goats. Dress for the farm, not the city!
🌟 Summer Pro-Tip: Because we are a true farm sanctuary, we have very limited shade. Plan your visit for early in the morning! You'll beat the intense midday heat, and catch the animals when they are most active.
At just a few dollars per person (infants under 12 months are free), we aren't an exhausting, expensive theme park. Relax for an hour or two without breaking the bank.
📍 Make a Day of It: The State-Hopper Itineraries
Turn your zoo visit into the perfect half-day family road trip. Pair your morning visit with these local favorites:
- 🚢 The Waterfront Route: Visit 3 Palms right at opening while it's cool out. Afterward, head back west to historic Chesapeake City. Grab lunch by the water and watch the massive cargo ships pass through the C&D Canal!
- 🌲 The Nature Route: After feeding the rescues, take the scenic route home and explore the hiking trails and massive playgrounds at Lums Pond State Park or Fair Hill Natural Resources Area.
- 🍎 The Farm Stand Route: Keep the rural farm vibes going! On your drive back toward Maryland, stop at Willey Farms in Townsend to grab unique snacks, fresh produce, and local treats.
Explore 3 Palms Zoo
Want to see who lives at the sanctuary before making the drive?
Start your morning adventure now.
Put us directly into your GPS below to start navigating.
⚠️ Critical GPS Warning
GPS units fail here constantly. They often tell you to turn onto (or stay on) "Blackbird Forest Rd." This is wrong. You must turn onto Vandyke Greenspring Rd to find our entrance.