AdventuresColumbia River Gorge

The Gorge Is a Stunning Backdrop For Exotic Animals At This Free Drive Through Ranch

Danielle Denham
Published:

Written by

schreiner farms, washington state, columbia river gorge, drive through zoo, family fun, wild animals, free roaming, PNW, things to do, giraffe, zebra, deer, kangaroo, ostrich, working ranch

If you’re searching for a family outing that blends the great outdoors with a dash of wild excitement, this one-of-a-kind drive-through experience should be your adventure radar. Hidden away just across the Columbia River Gorge from Oregon, this one-of-a-kind ranch offers a unique experience that will leave your kids—and you—grinning from ear to ear.

schreiner farms, washington state, columbia river gorge, drive through zoo, family fun, wild animals, free roaming, PNW, things to do, giraffe, zebra, deer, kangaroo, ostrich
Traci C. Grabner

Schreiner Farms Is a Fun Little Adventure For The Family

Schreiner Farms isn’t your typical ranch. Sure, you’ll find cows grazing on over 12,000 acres of rolling pastures, but the real stars of the show are the exotic animals. Imagine driving past zebras, giraffes, and camels as they roam freely—it’s like a mini safari without leaving the Pacific Northwest! The best part? It’s completely free. Just pack up the car, roll down the windows, and let the adventure begin.

schreiner farms, washington state, columbia river gorge, drive through zoo, family fun, wild animals, free roaming, PNW, things to do, giraffe, zebra, deer, kangaroo, ostrich
Traci C. Grabner

But before you get too excited, a word of caution: stay in your car! Signs posted around the ranch remind visitors to keep their distance for everyone’s safety. Don’t worry, though—you’ll still get plenty of great photo opportunities to capture those ‘wow’ moments.

Beyond the animals, Schreiner Farms is set in the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge not too far from the Dalles Mountain Ranch, offering sweeping views that are worth the trip alone. It’s a perfect spot to pack a picnic and let the kids stretch their legs while soaking in the scenery.

schreiner farms, washington state, columbia river gorge, drive through zoo, family fun, wild animals, free roaming, PNW, things to do, giraffe, zebra, deer, kangaroo, ostrich, working ranch
Robert Johnson

About The Ranch

Schreiner Farms spans over 12,000 acres in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, just across the river from The Dalles, Oregon. As a fully operational cattle ranch, they take pride in raising around 18 species of exotic animals, all of which receive top-notch care and nutrition. The animals roam freely in expansive, open areas rather than being confined to small enclosures, ensuring their health and well-being.

schreiner farms, washington state, columbia river gorge, drive through zoo, family fun, wild animals, free roaming, PNW, things to do, giraffe, zebra, deer, kangaroo, ostrich, working ranch
Kim G.

With abundant freshwater springs and excellent well water, the ranch provides an ideal environment for the animals. For over 25 years, they’ve maintained a trusted relationship with local veterinarians, ensuring that the animals receive the best care possible.

Schreiner Farms — Know Before You Go

  • The ranch is open from 9 am to dusk
  • For your safety, respect for the owners, and the well-being of the animals, always stay in your vehicle
  • Respect the ranch owners, stay on the main road, and turn around at the giraffe barn. There is a sign posted.
  • Always yield to farm traffic (tractors, quads and pickups)
  • No Smoking
  • Leave No Trace: do not litter, throw anything out of your vehicle, or attempt to feed the animals

Other Things To In The Area — Make A Day Of It!

Check out the Maryhill Stonehenge

Visit the Maryhill Museum

If you find yourself kid-free, make a trip to Maryhill Winery

maryhill stonehenge, washington

Where is Schreiner Farms Located?

Address: 8280 WA-14, Lyle, WA 98635

Web: schreinerfarms.com

Phone: 360-561-2813

Hours: 9am-Dusk, 7 Days a Week

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Schreiner Farms promises an unforgettable day out. So gather the family, hit the road, and get ready to experience a slice of the wild, right here in the PNW.

Written By Danielle Denham

Danielle Denham is a writer, photographer, and devoted history buff with a soft spot for Oregon’s forgotten places. Her love of old schoolhouses, abandoned homesteads, and the lives once lived inside them has taken her down back roads across the state. She was featured on OPB’s Oregon Field Guide, exploring the historic Charles Nelson House with a former resident shortly before the home was lost to wildfire. Watch the feature. At That Oregon Life, Danielle shares local history, good food, memorable adventures, and the quirks that make Oregon home. When she isn’t exploring, you may find her spending time in Eugene with Tyler James and his two awesome kiddos. If there’s an old building with a mysterious past along the way, consider the afternoon’s plans officially derailed.

Related Articles

X