02/23/2026
Good afternoon, friends!
I’m reaching out with a timely story idea that’s gaining national traction.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs has been nominated for USA Today’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Award for Top 10 Best Safari Park — and is currently sitting in 3rd place nationwide.
This recognition puts an Arkansas-based big cat rescue alongside some of the country’s largest safari attractions. The difference? Turpentine Creek is not a traditional safari park — it is an accredited wildlife sanctuary providing lifetime care to rescued lions, tigers, bears, and other exotic animals who were abused, abandoned, or neglected.
With public voting underway, there’s a strong community push to help the Refuge climb from 3rd to 1st. The story offers compelling visuals, powerful rescue backstories, and an uplifting angle about ethical wildlife tourism and conservation awareness.
We would love to coordinate:
• On-site interviews with leadership
• Rescue animal footage and photo assets
• Behind-the-scenes access to the sanctuary
• Community reaction and voting momentum coverage
I’ve attached the full press release below for additional details.
Please let me know if you’d like to schedule an interview or receive media assets. We’d be thrilled to work with you.
PRESS RELEASE:
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Nominated for USA Today’s 2026 Top 10 Best Safari Park - From Rescue to Refuge to Recognition
Eureka Springs, Ark., (February 18, 2026) — Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR), a nationally recognized leader in big cat rescue and lifetime sanctuary, has been nominated for USA Today’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Award for Top 10 Best Safari Park — and is proudly sitting in 3rd place as voting continues.
This prestigious nomination places Turpentine Creek among the top safari experiences in the country and highlights the Refuge’s decades-long commitment to rescuing abused, abandoned, and neglected big cats and other wildlife.
Unlike traditional safari attractions, Turpentine Creek is a true sanctuary. Every resident — from lions and tigers to bears and leopards — has a rescue story. Guests experience these magnificent animals in expansive natural habitats while learning about the harsh realities of the exotic pet trade and the importance of ethical wildlife protection.
“Being nominated — and currently ranked in the top five — is an incredible honor,” said Cheryl King, Director of Public Relations at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. “Every vote helps shine a spotlight on rescue, not exploitation. This recognition amplifies the voices of the animals who now have a permanent, safe home here.”
Founded in 1992, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge has rescued more than 550 animals over its history. The Refuge is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) and remains steadfast in its mission: providing lifetime care to big cats and advocating for stronger animal protection laws nationwide.
The USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards are determined entirely by public vote. Supporters can vote once per day throughout the voting period, helping TCWR climb from 3rd place toward the top spot.
Community members, supporters, and animal advocates are encouraged to cast their vote and share the opportunity with friends and family. Every click directly supports awareness for ethical wildlife tourism and responsible rescue efforts.
Voting is open now through March 9, 11:59 AM EDT at: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/turpentine-creek-wildlife-refuge-eureka-springs-arkansas/. The top 10 winners, as ranked by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, will be announced on Wednesday, March 18th at noon EDT.
For more information,
visit www.turpentinecreek.org
or contact us at (479) 253-5841.
About Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge:
Founded in 1992, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and rescue operation protecting survivors of the exotic animal trade. The 459-acre Refuge, located 7 miles south of Eureka Springs, is an ethical animal tourism destination accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS). They are members of the American Association of Zoo Keepers and licensed by the USDA and Arkansas Game and Fish. Their mission is to rescue and provide lifetime sanctuary for captive wild animals. Since its inception, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge has rescued and provided sanctuary and assisted other accredited sanctuaries and zoos in rescuing and transporting over 500 animals. For more information, visit tcwr.org.
