For Valley Scene Magazine readers searching for unique things to do near Agua Dulce, Santa Clarita, and the northern Los Angeles County foothills, Animal Tracks Sanctuary offers an unforgettable, hyper-local immersive wildlife experience just minutes from the Antelope Valley and the San Fernando Valley.

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Located in the quiet canyon community of Agua Dulce, Animal Tracks Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit wildlife rescue and education center known for its unusually intimate, up-close encounters with rescued exotic animals. Unlike traditional zoos or animal parks, this sanctuary limits group sizes and focuses on calm, guided experiences that prioritize animal welfare while allowing guests to be just feet away from wildlife.

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Why Animal Tracks Is One of Agua Dulce’s Most Unique Attractions

Animal Tracks Sanctuary stands out among things to do near Santa Clarita, Acton, and Canyon Country because of its immersive approach. Guests don’t view animals from behind distant fences—instead, they walk through carefully designed habitats alongside trained wildlife educators.

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Animals move freely within controlled spaces, often choosing to approach guests naturally. Lemurs may leap overhead, foxes explore nearby, and kangaroos graze calmly within view. While touching is limited for safety reasons, the eye-level proximity creates a powerful sense of connection that visitors rarely experience elsewhere in Los Angeles County.

Rescued Animals You’ll See Up Close

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Animal Tracks is home to a rotating group of rescued animals, many saved from the exotic pet trade, illegal ownership, or retired animal acting careers. Visitors may encounter:

• Ring-tailed lemurs

• Capuchin monkeys

• Kangaroos and wallabies

• Red foxes

• Serval cats

• Porcupines, skunks, exotic birds, and wolf-dog hybrids

Each animal’s story is shared during the tour, educating guests about conservation, habitat loss, and why wild animals should never be kept as pets.

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VIP Experience Near Santa Clarita & the Antelope Valley

For visitors looking for an elevated experience, Animal Tracks offers a limited VIP Experience, one of the most exclusive animal encounters near Santa Clarita. VIP guests enjoy extended time, smaller groups, and behind-the-scenes access to animal care routines, enrichment activities, and daily operations.

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This premium option is especially popular with wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, educators, and couples seeking a unique date-day experience near the San Fernando Valley. Availability is limited to maintain a peaceful environment for the animals.

Who Founded Animal Tracks Sanctuary?

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Animal Tracks Sanctuary was founded in 2002 by Trenda Renegar, with a mission to provide permanent refuge for exotic animals impacted by human activity. In 2008, leadership transitioned to Stacy Gunderson, a respected wildlife caregiver and primate specialist who now serves as Executive Director. Under her leadership, the sanctuary has expanded its rescue efforts and educational programming throughout northern Los Angeles County.

Plan Your Visit to Animal Tracks Sanctuary

Animal Tracks Sanctuary is open through reservation-only guided tours, helping maintain a calm, respectful environment for animals and guests alike.

Website: https://www.animaltracksinc.org

Location: Agua Dulce, CA (near Santa Clarita, Acton, and Antelope Valley)
Experiences Offered: Guided Tours, VIP Experiences, Wildlife Educator for a Day

For Valley Scene Magazine readers searching for ethical animal encounters near the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita, and Agua Dulce, Animal Tracks Sanctuary delivers a rare, meaningful, and truly local experience—one that stays with you long after you leave.