Adventure awaits at Lazy 5 Ranch, a one-of-a-kind exotic animal experience in Rowan County, N.C. This privately owned safari park features a 3.5-mile drive-thru and wagon ride through rolling pastureland, where you’ll encounter more than 750 animals from six continents - all from the comfort of your own vehicle or a guided tour.
From towering giraffes and curious kangaroos to camels, zebus, bison, and watusi cattle, Lazy 5 Ranch offers an up-close experience you won’t find anywhere else in the region.
Plan Your Visit
Before you go, here are a few key details to help you make the most of your trip:
This is one of the most important stops to plan ahead for - knowing these details before you arrive will save you time and ensure a smooth visit.
Wagon Ride vs. Drive-Thru: What to Expect
Lazy 5 Ranch offers two ways to experience the safari:
Drive-Thru Safari
Take your own vehicle along the 3.5-mile path
Animals will approach your car for feeding
Great for flexibility and families with small children
Wagon Ride Experience
Guided tour on a horse-drawn wagon
Offers a more interactive, hands-free experience
Reservations required (call ahead to book)
If it’s your first visit, the wagon ride is often considered the most immersive option, while the drive-thru gives you more control over your pace.
Animals & Conservation Efforts
Lazy 5 Ranch isn’t just about fun - it also plays a role in conservation and education.
The ranch is home to a wide variety of species, including:
Giraffes
Kangaroos
Camels
Bison
Zebras
Antelope
Exotic birds and more
They are especially known for their work with endangered species such as:
Grevy’s Zebra
Scimitar-Horned Oryx
Ring-tailed Lemur
Through breeding programs and educational experiences, Lazy 5 Ranch helps promote awareness and preservation of rare and threatened animals.
Annual Events
In addition to daily visits, Lazy 5 Ranch hosts seasonal events that make for even more memorable trips:
Spring: Easter celebration featuring a helicopter egg drop
Fall: Pumpkin patch and family-friendly fall festival activities
These events are especially popular with families, so plan ahead if you’re visiting during peak seasons.
A Local Legacy
Lazy 5 Ranch opened on May 22, 1993, bringing Henry Hampton’s vision to life. What began as a private collection - occasionally viewed by curious passersby and school groups - has grown into a nationally recognized destination.
Still family-owned and operated, the ranch remains rooted in its original mission: to educate, entertain, and provide a safe environment for animals from around the world.
Plan Your Trip
Located just a short drive from Salisbury, Lazy 5 Ranch is one of Rowan County’s most unique attractions and a must-do for animal lovers and families alike.
Lazy 5 Ranch FAQs
Is Lazy 5 Ranch cash only?
Yes, the ranch accepts cash or check only.
Do you need reservations for the wagon ride?
Yes, reservations are required. Call ahead to secure your spot.
How long does the drive-thru take?
Most visits take about 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop to feed animals.
Can you bring pets?
No, pets are not allowed for the safety of both your animals and the ranch animals.
Is Lazy 5 Ranch good for young kids?
Absolutely - it’s a very family-friendly attraction and especially popular with toddlers and elementary-aged children.
