The Endangered Ark Foundation, located in Hugo, Oklahoma, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Asian Elephants.

Pretty cool if you ask me!

With guided tours and educational programs, the Ark Foundation doesn’t take a back seat to anyone when it comes to elephant facilities.

In this article, I will introduce you to this elephant sanctuary and the points of interest. That way, you will have realistic expectations before you arrive.

Without further ado, Let’s jump into the article!

 

 

For more information on the Ark Foundation, you can check them out here.

 

 

Where is the Endangered Ark Foundation?

 

 

The Endangered Ark Foundation is located in the tiny town of Hugo, Oklahoma. Hugo is located just 3 hours Southeast of Oklahoma City and 2 and a half hours south of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The Foundation was founded in 1993 and is home to over 20 Asian elephants, making it one of the largest private elephant facilities in the United States.

 

The Ark’s Mission

The foundation’s mission is to educate the public about the importance of elephant conservation and provide a safe and loving home for elephants in need.

That is something we can all get behind on!

The elephants at the foundation come from a variety of backgrounds, including circuses, zoos, and private owners who are no longer able to care for them.

The Endangered Ark Foundation prides itself on being a top-notch sanctuary, and we can definitely see why!

Regardless of background, the foundation provides these elephants with a permanent home where they can live out their lives in peace and comfort.

 

The Mobile Elephant Unit

One of the unique features of the Ark Foundation is its mobile elephant unit.

Say what?

Yes, this unit allows the foundation to bring the elephants to schools, nursing homes, and other community events.

What a great way for people who may not have the opportunity to visit the foundation to experience the majesty and beauty of these incredible creatures.

 

Educational Programs

Educational programs are a must at the Ark Foundation.

This sanctuary offers a variety of educational programs to the public. Visitors to the foundation can take guided tours, ride the elephants, and have an up-close and personal encounter with these magnificent animals.

In this, you will get to experience and learn about the elephants’ behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.

 

Sustainable Living

 

One of my favorite things about the Ark Foundation is their strong commitment to environmental awareness. Since 1993, the foundation has been committed since Day 1 and has no signs of slowing down in that department.

With facilities powered by renewable energy sources, the foundation also boasts buildings that are constructed with recycled and environmentally friendly materials.

As far as accolades go, they are a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. With a tremendous facility and staff, I’m not a bit surprised by this at all.

The elephants at the foundation receive regular veterinary care, as well as daily exercise and socialization.

 

Conservation Efforts Continue to Grow

The Endangered Ark Foundation relies on donations and volunteers to continue its important work. Anyone can make a donation, sponsor an elephant, or become a volunteer.

We discussed recently the positive impact that volunteering can do to conservation. Well, this is true at the Ark.

Just like anything else, these volunteers are essential to the foundation’s operations, helping with animal care, maintenance, and educational programs.

 

Accolades

The Ark Foundation has received national recognition for its work, including being named one of the top 10 elephant sanctuaries in the United States by USA Today.

The foundation has also been featured on the television series “Dirty Jobs” and “Animal Planet.”

But more importantly, the foundation has become an integral part of the community in Hugo.

They continue to sponsor a variety of community events, including an annual elephant festival, which draws visitors from corner to corner of the United States.

 

 

Thought & Takeaways

And that wraps things up for today. The Endangered Ark Foundation in Hugo, Oklahoma, is an incredible organization that is dedicated to the conservation and protection of Asian elephants. I love how these organizations are committed to education, sustainability, and animal welfare. A place like this makes this a sanctuary that is valuable to the world we live in. If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful experience, visiting the Ark foundation should be at the top of your list. By supporting the foundation through donations or volunteering, you can help ensure that these magnificent animals receive the care and love they deserve.