Frequently asked questions

We’re at 3262 Mertz Rd, Caro, MI 48723, in the Thumb region of Michigan — about a 90-minute drive from Flint, 2 hours from Detroit, and 45 minutes from Bay City.

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. We’re closed Monday through Wednesday. We operate seasonally — call (989) 553-6659 before you come in late fall or winter.

Admission is $10 for ages 12 and up, $5 for ages 4 through 12, and free for children 3 and under. Admission includes the petting zoo and the farm-equipment playground. The hay wagon tour is an optional add-on at $4 per person (free for kids 3 and under). Season passes are also available at a significant discount for families who plan to visit more than a couple of times.

Our three flagship species are whitetail deer (we’ve ranched them here since 1999), Rocky Mountain elk, and American bison. You’ll see them on the hay wagon tour. The petting zoo area hosts a rotating set of friendlier species you can feed and interact with.

A 25-minute guided ride on a modified hay wagon that loops 4 miles through our woods and pastures. You’ll hear the history of the property and have great chances to see whitetail deer, elk, and bison in a natural setting. The tour is an optional add-on — $4 per person on top of admission, free for kids 3 and under.

Walk-ins are welcome during regular hours. For group visits (10 or more people), school field trips, scout troops, or birthday parties, please contact us in advance so we can schedule a private tour time.

Most families spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours with us. Budget 25 minutes for the hay wagon tour, plenty of time at the petting zoo, and give the kids some runway on the farm-equipment playground — it’s hard to pry them off.

The main visitor area, petting zoo, and playground are on level ground and manageable with strollers. The hay wagon has a step up that may be difficult for some guests with mobility limitations — please call ahead and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

We ask that you leave pets at home. Our animals aren’t used to dogs at close range and it causes stress for them. Service animals are welcome.

Close-toed shoes you don’t mind getting dusty, and dress for the weather — the tour is open-air. Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer; layers and something windproof in spring and fall.

We don’t run a full concession stand, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks, drinks, or a packed lunch. Caro has several restaurants within a ten-minute drive if you want a sit-down meal after your visit.

Light rain doesn’t stop us — the tour goes out unless there’s lightning or dangerous conditions. If we have to cancel a tour for weather, we’ll honor your ticket on another day. Give us a call if you’re not sure.

Yes. We welcome school groups, scout troops, homeschool co-ops, church groups, and private birthday parties. Visit the Groups & Field Trips page or call us to book a custom time slot.

Yes — season passes are our best deal for families in the Tuscola County area. See the Season Passes page for current pricing.

Absolutely — please do. Just please respect the animals’ space, and if you post on Facebook or Instagram we’d love a tag.