About Us
“The Kulaqua Wildlife Sanctuary inspires awe, curiosity, and faith through every animal encounter.”
How We Do It
The Kulaqua Wildlife Sanctuary and Nature Center is a church-based, non-profit ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Florida Conference, dedicated to connecting people with the wonder of God’s Creation. We serve as animal rescuers, educators, and guides—offering school programs, home school adventures, outreach presentations, and guided hikes by day or night. Our team has teaching and animal science degrees with years of outdoor experience. We bring learning to life through encounters with wildlife, hands-on science, and unforgettable adventures in nature. Every program inspires curiosity, nurtures faith, and encourages stewardship of the natural world.
Types of Animals
Visitors Annually
Acres
Our Story & Growth
The Camp Kulaqua Wildlife Sanctuary began in the 1960s, with its very first enclosures designed in part by renowned animal expert Jack Hanna. Over the years, many hands and hearts have shaped our mission, but none more than longtime curator Nannie Ruiz, whose 47 years of dedication helped build the sanctuary into what it is today. Now home to more than 75 rescued or donated animals, our program continues to blend conservation with Creation-based education, offering unforgettable opportunities to learn, explore, and be inspired.
1953
Florida Conference of SDA purchases Camp Kulaqua land
Elder Wayne Foster led the effort to purchase a block of land around Hornsby Springs in North Central Florida.
1965
First animal in our wildlife center, a deer named Ginger.
Ginger wandered free at the camp for about 18 years and was a friend to staff and visitors alike.
1966
First permit from Florida Fish and Game Commission
Began operating under active permits from both the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). We are also specially licensed to display a mounted bald eagle.
1975-2022
Nannie Ruiz Led the wildlife program
Nannie Ruiz helped build up the program
and oversee the acquisition, raising and care of hundreds of animals.
Guests will remember this engaging and interactive experience!
Long after leaving our gates, our guests will carry with them not just facts, but lasting memories of awe, discovery, and the Creator’s handiwork.