Shoalhaven Zoo
📍 North Nowra, NSW
Shoalhaven Zoo spans 16 acres of native bushland along the Shoalhaven River, housing 100+ species including lions, koalas, wombats and crocodiles. Animal encounters, keeper talks, feeding sessions, rainforest walks and riverside picnic areas.
We had an awesome visit to Shoalhaven Zoo! The staff were welcoming, the enclosures were clean, and all the animals looked healthy and well cared for. A special highlight was meeting Reneigh the horse — such a gentle, beautiful soul who clearly loves a good pat. You can tell the keepers genuinely care for their animals, and it makes the whole experience feel personal and warm. There’s plenty to see and do, from feeding encounters to peaceful walks along the river. A great spot for families or anyone who loves getting close to animals. We’ll definitely be back to visit Reneigh again! 🐴💙
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children under 10 who want hands-on animal encounters rather than a large-scale zoo. The intimate scale means genuine access to animals, not just distant enclosures. Younger kids thrive at the patting areas; older children enjoy the caves and keeper talks. The riverside location makes an easy half-day trip from Nowra.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,394 Google reviews
Josh Ua
5 months ago
“We had an awesome visit to Shoalhaven Zoo! The staff were welcoming, the enclosures were clean, and all the animals looked healthy and well cared for. A special highlight was meeting Reneigh the horse — such a gentle, beautiful soul who clearly loves a good pat. You can tell the keepers genuinely care for their animals, and it makes the whole experience feel personal and warm. There’s plenty to see and do, from feeding encounters to peaceful walks along the river. A great spot for families or anyone who loves getting close to animals. We’ll definitely be back to visit Reneigh again! 🐴💙”
Lisa Heiser
3 months ago
“Great family Zoo bring my boys all the time their teams work hard in maintaining everything super great location on the river can camp next door $20 per person per night cant recommend the zoo enough exceptional place little walking tracks its amazing. Had my sons bday yesterday cake kept in fridge large undercover seating area for lunch was perfect. Thank you be back again soon.”
KIM STEED
4 months ago
“Great zoo The caves to climb through were amazing and the rainforest walking through was amazing along with Renee the Horse, who kicked the fence must see. And the koalas, of course great zoo! Definitely will go again.”
Lisa Joubert
2 months ago
“Hidden Gem! I will def go back and camp close to the Zoo and go again to the zoo with the little ones! The cafe also offers some really good food and great Coffee and not expensive!”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Sixteen acres of native bushland along the Shoalhaven River, home to over 100 native and exotic species. Highlights include lion feeding sessions, koala and rabbit patting, keeper-led talks, caves to explore, and a rainforest walk. Reneigh the horse is a crowd favourite. On-site café with undercover seating, riverside picnic areas, and camping next door for multi-day stays.
