Chahinkapa Zoo — Zoo in Wahpeton

Chahinkapa Zoo and its collection

Chahinkapa Zoo, opened in 1933, is a zoo in Wahpeton, United States.

More than 200 animals of roughly 100 species are held at what was the first zoo established in North Dakota. It opens from May to October, with winter visits by appointment.

History

The town bought the park land from the federal government in 1903. A Park Board formed in 1933 under its director, R.J. Hughes, and began the zoo with a handful of animals. During the 1960s the collection shifted to an 18-acre plot at the north end of the park.

Animals and collection

Primates include orangutan, white-handed gibbon, spider monkey and ring-tailed lemur, while the grazers cover Bactrian camel, plains zebra, southern white rhino, bison and elk. Other mammals include Bengal tiger, cheetah, snow leopard, fossa and grizzly bear.

What the venue says

• naturalistic woodland settings
• immersive wetland and primate enclosures
• kangaroo walk-abouts, rhino encounters, and lemur feedings
• birthday party packages
• educational programs
• an on-site campground
• A grab-and-go Snack Station is available on the grounds, providing quick bites, snacks, and refreshing beverages to keep visitors fueled during their trip.
• Free parking is available for visitors on-site.
• wheelchair-accessible entrances and pathways
• service animals are permitted