Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a drive-through safari park in the Hill Country near New Braunfels, about forty minutes from San Antonio, and it is the most hands-on animal outing on this side of the region. You drive your own vehicle along a route through open pastures where exotic and native species roam freely. The animals are wild and not aggressive, but they know that cars sometimes carry food, so expect them to approach, peer in and occasionally block the road. One loop takes roughly an hour to an hour and a half, and you may drive through as many times as you like on the same day, though once you leave the gates your ticket expires. Beyond the drive, the ranch has Walk-A-Bout areas where you step out on foot, and the Safari Camp Grill for meals. Planning for at least five hours, including lunch, gives a relaxed visit. Guided tours in safari vehicles with rain covers are also available if you would rather not use your own car.
Vehicle rules matter
The ranch asks for a closed vehicle. Jeeps are allowed if the tops and full doors are installed, but convertibles and motorcycles are not, and riding in a pickup bed or with van doors open is not permitted. Trailers cannot enter the drive-through and must be left in the parking lot. If you do not want to put your own car through the dust and the occasional slobbery nose, the guided safari vehicle option is worth considering. Bring an umbrella for the walk-about areas, as the ranch operates in rain or shine.
Timing and comfort
Mornings are recommended, and arriving near 9 a.m. helps you avoid peak crowds on holidays, summer days and weekends. Animal behaviour is unpredictable. Light rain usually does not bother them, though they may seek shelter in heavy rain or extreme cold, and in heat they often rest in the shade for long stretches, so cooler mornings usually mean more activity. Pets are not allowed, including service animals, and barbecuing is not permitted, though you can bring your own picnic food and use the first-come pavilion and tables.
Tickets and combining
Admission includes an Adventure Guide Book with safety rules and a map, and tickets can be bought online or at the booth; discounts for military, first responders and AAA members are available, but only online coupon codes can be applied at online checkout. The ranch pairs naturally with Natural Bridge Caverns, which is in the same area, and with Gruene for lunch and a stroll, so a New Braunfels loop is easy to build. For visitors with young children, it is one of the easiest ways to see large animals up close without a long drive from San Antonio.
What to expect
The experience
A drive-through safari in your own closed vehicle, with walk-about areas and an on-site grill.
Best time
Mornings, arriving near 9 a.m., especially on weekends, holidays and in summer.
How long
One drive-through takes one to one and a half hours; plan about five hours with lunch.
Tips
Use a closed vehicle, leave pets at home, bring an umbrella and a picnic, and keep your ticket until you leave.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families who want close animal encounters.
- Families
- Excellent: children can watch animals approach the car.
- Couples
- Fun for an easygoing day, less so for romance.
- Pair with
- Natural Bridge Caverns or Gruene.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Can I use my own car?+
Yes, in a closed vehicle; jeeps need tops and full doors, and convertibles and motorcycles are not allowed.
How long is the drive-through?+
About one to one and a half hours, and you may repeat it the same day without leaving the ranch.
Are pets allowed?+
No, pets are not allowed, including service animals.
Can I bring food?+
Yes, you may bring your own picnic food; barbecuing is not allowed, and the Safari Camp Grill sells meals.
What if it rains?+
The ranch is open rain or shine; bring an umbrella for the walk-about areas.
