Charles Paddock Zoo

The Charles Paddock Zoo is an interesting little 5-acre local community zoo located right in San Luis Obispo County's City of Atascadero, California. It's the only zoo in this part of the U.S. For most of the year it is home to only a single male Malayan tiger called Menderu. He was brought to this location from Belize, where he'd been living since he was 4 years old. Menderu isn't like the other tigers at other zoos because he doesn't need a feeding station. Instead, he uses his natural tendencies to hunt for small animals in and around the habitat.

The San Luis Obispo County government operates the facility. They're really not into keeping big cats like the Bengal or African lions. The reason why the facility was established was so children could get an experience with all kind of wild animals, not just the typical red foxes and raccoons. Because of its close proximity to the City of San Luis Obispo it has a population of more than one million residents. This makes it the largest zoo in California.

The zoo has two areas for you to visit. One is the Strathbogie Ridge Trail, which follows the ridge line right next to the zoo. This trail will take you through the natural vegetation of the area as well as past a series of rock formations. It will give you a feel for the local terrain and vegetation.

The other is the South Rim Loop. This trail is almost exactly the same as the Strathbogie trail, but it goes slightly south of the zoo. You'll find yourself approaching the rim from the south. From here you can either travel towards the zoo using the trail described above or you can turn left and go back the way you came. Either way, you'll be heading towards the zoo entrance.

If you'd rather have the zoo tour over your stay, you can. They'll have guides that are knowledgeable and talkative enough to make you forget about your own concerns. In fact, the guides will likely make you stop on your way to ask some questions or to let you know about various attractions. You can also sit at one of their viewing platforms, if you'd prefer. While you're there you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and see the different animals up close.

The Charles P Buttocker Zoo and Aquarium is one you won't want to miss out on. It's one of the most popular zoos in Southern California and has many popular tours and activities for the entire family. For those traveling on a budget, it is also a great place to find some discount tickets. Keep your eyes open and your ears to the ground for any specials that might be available so you can get a deal on your vacation.