I've been to Rooterville Animal Sanctuary twice, and both visits were totally worth the 2 hour drive from Orlando. The animals are well taken care of, the people working there are so nice and helpful and booking a highland cow cuddling session was amazing. You can even stay on site if you want that real "outdoorsy" experience - but it's perfect even for a quick day trip. Can't wait to come back again! read more

See all

The best experience for a minication. I was lucky enough to not know where I was going for my birthday and it was the perfect surprise! (My wife did great!) Not only is the location a perfect portal to a different type of Florida , but the wagons are all the way in the back so it's perfect privacy. There's also a tent outside to sit and watch pigs take a bath in the fountain. The wagon room we got was the Piggies room! Perfect decor and amenities inside(towels/shampoo/conditioner/tissues/coffee mugs /even games!) Huge bathroom with incredible shower.There is ac but we spent most of the time with the screen door and bathroom window open & it felt great. Included inside:mini fridge, toaster, coffee/tea (included),microwave and a small heater. Plenty of plugs to charge & a full length mirror. We love that there was no tv because we got to watch highland cows instead !! We also got to sleep to rain and it was so peaceful especially waking up every morning to new friends like pigs and sheep! We also saw: 4 highland cows!! , 2 different types of pigs, a family of sheep (+Anya the sassiest girl), cats, dogs, goats, turkeys (that like hugs but scared meee), guinea fowls, chickens and hens, mini horses and a peacock that sounds like Kevin from UP in the nighttime !! All the staff were super friendly including miss Elaine! Truly an incredible place to visit and get to feed pigs all day. read more

See all

The most wonderful experience. The sanctuary was clean, beautiful and peaceful. Everyone was so nice. We were there on a Tuesday so basically had the place for ourselves. We got to walk around the property with the animals following us everywhere. Leo the goat was so cute, bear the dog greeted us at the front and was with us most of the day. Jack the turkey was the most friendliest turkey, he followed us and even let me pet him. We also did the highland cow cuddle experience with Jett and it was so nice and fun. Definitely worth the drive! It's a must visit if you're close by! read more

See all

We stayed one night at Rooterville Animal Sanctuary and overall had a good experience. We booked the covered wagon, which was definitely a fun and unique place to stay, though it's basically just an RV with a wagon theme. Still, it was peaceful, clean, and had some really pretty views. I'd give the glamping part about 3.5-4 stars. The animals were definitely a highlight we got to see ponies, pigs, goats, and even a highland cow! Most of them were really friendly and it was fun to get up close to them. We also booked the Highland Cow Cuddling Experience for two people, which cost $155.95 before taxes for 45 minutes. Unfortunately, that part didn't really meet expectations. We showed up a few minutes late and it seemed like the next group had already started and was feeding the cows, something we were supposed to do during our session. We only got about 15 minutes with the highland cow before they switched us out and left us with the baby cows for the rest of the time. The staff member who was supposed to stay with us and give us the snacks for the cows ended up leaving with the other group, and we never got the free reusable bag or the promised snacks either, which was disappointing, especially for the price. I'd rate the Highland Cow experience more like 2.5-3 stars. Overall, Rooterville is a beautiful sanctuary and we still enjoyed our stay, but the premium animal experience was handled pretty poorly for the cost. Because of that, we probably wouldn't book another experience with them After the staff responded to my google review I do want to add this Thanks for getting back to us. I do want to clarify a few things, because we actually did communicate some of this in advance. We did ask about possibly being a few minutes late, and we were told that it would be fine. We also let the staff know (both over the phone and in person at the store) that we had a cow cuddling appointment planned. There was no indication at any point that being just a few minutes late would result in missing the full experience or that staff would be sent home so quickly--especially considering that most places typically allow a 10-15 minute grace period. As for checkout, when my husband called to confirm, he was told we just needed to be out before 4PM since there was no one coming in after us, and we did leave before that time. We also took time to clean up and sort the linens as a courtesy. We went to get food because we expected there to be heat-and-eat meals available as mentioned, but didn't find any. If that had been communicated more clearly, we could have planned differently and been back earlier. We understand you're disappointed, and we're sorry things didn't go smoothly. We were genuinely excited about the experience, and it's unfortunate that miscommunication and a tight timeline affected how things unfolded. That said, we do appreciate the time we did get with the Highland cow and the baby cows. Thanks again for responding--we just wish expectations on both sides had been clearer. read more

See all

We are not typically outdoorsy people and live in a city, but had an overall good experience despite being in the middle of nowhere. Staying in the covered wagon was very nice. Had running water and AC/heat. Came with mini fridge and king size bed that was pretty comfortable. On the farm we enjoyed our cuddle session with the baby cows. It was a pleasant experience. During our stay we were allowed to walk the property and enjoyed seeing the pigs, goats, sheep, birds and other animals. If you go make sure to bring boots or old shoes because they will get very dirty - as expected on a farm. The owner Elaine is very hardworking and appears to be dedicated to her farm and animals. read more

We had a blast at the farm! Everyone there is helpful and friendly, and Jett is the cutest cuddler! Peaceful place to stroll and interact with all the animals. The property is extremely well taken care of. I was shocked that there was no strong animal smell! Get away from all life's hustle & bustle. Rooterville is worth the trip! read more

Rooterville Animal Sanctuary - Happy as a pig at Rooterville! - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Melrose, Florida

See all

Stayed for 2 nights with our grandson and we all enjoyed our time there. Staff super friendly and helpful

Stayed here three nights while visiting family in the area. Elaine and staff are amazing. This was one of the best lodging experiences of our life. We stayed in the Farmhouse, which is a two-bedroom nicely finished mobile home with screened porch. Black appliances, stainless steel farm sink, nice furnishings and color selections. Elaine did a great job on the interior design. Everything was new and in great condition. We really felt like guests on a working farm. There are cows, pigs, guinea hens, peacocks, dogs and cats roaming all over the place. There is a lovely pond stocked with fish. There are staff and day visitors roaming by all the time. Everyone so friendly and happy to be there. We were treated like royalty. Everyone was warm, but gave you space. Super attentive. The beds were very comfortable. Loved the large bathroom and shower. There is a ninja coffee maker that uses K-cups. There were some complimentary or bring your own. They also have these neat Conestoga wagons in the glamping section near the pond. They are super cool! They have their own bathrooms and air conditioning too. Using the Farmhouse was like an AirBNB, but better. I highly recommend the Rooterville Animal Sanctuary. Remember that it's a working farm, and so you just roll with the daily life. It's not the Ritz Carlton. But it was perfect for us. Thank you Elaine and everyone for the memories. This was a very special time for us that we will never forget! read more

An awesome getaway from the hectic life of the city. Beautiful butterfly gardens, healthy and happy animals, a mini-playground for kiddos, wonderful air-conditioned bathrooms. It's so worth the trip. read more

This was an experience for sure. I didn't know at first what I would be getting into but let me tell you it was fun. As soon as you come through the gates there are pigs everywhere lol. It was kind of scary at first but then all the pigs were just friendly animals. The gift shop had pretty good items for sale. The owners of the place are extremely friendly and the tour of the area was lovely. I do encourage you to take the ride/tour it was fun to see the lake area for the boars and pigs. You can also purchase a snack bag to feed the snails also recommend but beware of animal saliva lol. read more

Visited a local gem today - Rooterville Animal Sanctuary - it was such a wonderful place! We enjoyed visiting and letting and feeding rescued pigs, cows and horses. We took a tour on the tractor train, saw baby goats, chickens, butterfly garden. It was such a wonderful visit and can't wait to go back! read more

See all

Our family spent 2 nights at the wagons in Rooterville. No detail was spared for the accommodations. The wagons are decorated beautifully and feature luxurious sheets, towels and toiletries. This is a one of kind experience where you have a beautiful pond to sit by an enjoy your coffee, and later spend time with the rescue animals that call this place home. We will be definitely be returning to soon. Rooterville is a gem, make your over for a memorable experience. read more

See all

A great outing for kids. You can pet pigs, cows, goats, roosters and dogs. Did I mention pigs? Because there are hundreds. And some of them as big as the golf cart we were on. If you call in advance, you can schedule a tour. That is the way to go! So, this is much more than just a petting zoo. This is a sanctuary. As in the adults involved are hugely vegan and are saving animals from being slaughtered. They run on donations. If you are a meat eater, like myself, just smile and nod. There will be a lot of vegan commentary. read more

I volunteered here for two days, and the staff and animals were extremely rewarding to work with. Kayleigh showed me around and explained the animal's histories, which were extremely touching. If you are someone from the city, a vegetarian, an animal lover, or a vegan who just wants to get in touch with the farm life, then this is an AMAZING place to be:-). Don't be afraid to get dirty though, because you will get piggy and rooster hugs! read more

See all

Rooterville is INCREDIBLE. I stayed the night in the main house with my partner. So incredible to wake up and hear the roosters and look outside and see happy, roaming piggies. This place is full of love and compassion. Elaine is an incredible individual who has dedicated her life to radical and beautiful love of often forgotten creatures. Your visit will be very self guided if you'd like; there's thirty acres to check out! However, they do have incredible tours (we had a one on one with Brandon) that are informative and fun. You'll meet happy pigs, pot bellies, goats, ducks, cows, turkeys, chickens, farm kitties, two little dachshunds, and three Great Pyrenees. Everyone was very helpful and kind. Can't wait to come back. read more

I visited this place today and i had an amazing time. The piggies were so happy and healthy, everyone looked so well cared for. They didn't just have pigs though, they had chickens, turkeys, cows, and dogs. All the animals have a big area they can roam around and do whatever they want to, that's one of the reasons i like sanctuaries over zoos. One of my favorite parts was seeing the odd but inseparable pair, Lulu and Temple; the pig and her dog best friend. The great pyrenees dogs that they have roaming and "guarding" the sanctuary are so beautiful and laid back. I love how they had their coats still now that it's getting warm (a lot of people get a summer shave down), their coats actually keep them cool in the heat. We drove an hour to get there and would 100% would and will do it again. Wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty! read more

I stayed 2 night in the wagons at Rooterville with my husband and our 2 girls. We stayed in one and our girls stayed in the other. The wagons are so cute! And yes they have a nice cold AC and bathroom with shower, sink, toilet and hot water. As much as I love nature I have no desire to camp in a tent with no amenities , so this glamping experience was definitely a way to be able to get the feeling of camping but with my modern amenities and comfort. It was so nice to get away to the country, watch the sun go down and a listen to the chorus of the night and to wake to the beautiful ducks , nature and pond with a fountain. I turn into a little kid around animals, so I was in heaven. I took a bunch of bananas and apples and enjoyed feeding the pigs, horses, cows....and saw goats, peacocks and turkeys as well. It was impressive to see how the grounds were so clean, well maintained and flyless (especially in the middle of a super hot and humid summer). Elaine has created such a paradise for these beautiful fur/feathered souls. May God rain many blessings on her. The animals roam around freely and look so happy. I will definitely find time to come back whenever I can and will also donate as often as I can and support this beautiful cause by shopping at her online store. I hope more people become aware of this gem. read more

I wish I could give a zero. We went over a weekend to share the animals with my grandchildren. It was seemingly nice but the gift shop wasn't staffed so the kiddos couldn't get a toy and if it was later we wouldn't want anything from them. We spoke to one employee and it was a really rude older woman. It seems like a place is trying to hard. Don't recommend wasting your time. Unfortunately, if you want to save animals donate to the humane society. read more