Barn Hill Preserve might just be the best-kept secret in Louisiana. This little animal preserve tucked away in Ethel, Louisiana is full of furry friends the whole family will love. Not only will you fall in love with all of the other exotic animals that call Barn Hill home, but you’ll have the rare opportunity to swim with otters! You know your day is going to be good if it involves swimming with otters. Let’s check it out.

You may have never heard of the tiny town of Ethel, Louisiana, but that’s about to change.
Jacob Miller/Google
Just north of Baton Rouge, Ethel may be a small town, but it’s hiding a big secret: Barn Hill Preserve.
Barn Hill Preserve is an animal sanctuary that offers hands-on animal encounters and educational programs.
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
During your guided walking tour, you’ll be shown all around the beautiful property, getting up close to some of the most incredible and exotic animals.
Owls, lynx, ostriches… there are so many creatures that call the preserve home.
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
Barn Hill is dedicated to preservation efforts and educating the next generation on how to protect these beautiful creatures through hands-on activities and programs.
You’ll have the opportunity to meet some of their animal ambassadors and meet some of the kangaroos, baby anteaters, and more.
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
Well, that may be the cutest baby kangaroo pair ever!

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Kids will love getting up close and petting these gentle giants.
Izaak Brumley/Google
From giant camels to tiny lizards, you'll meet them all. And you might even get the chance to hold a sloth!
While you're touring the property, you might catch a flash of color flying through the sky.
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
That would be one of the many macaws that live here. Barn Hill is home to one of the largest free-flying macaw rescues in the country, so you'll see them soaring through the sky during your visit.
After you’ve toured the facility and made new furry friends, you’ve got one last thing to do.
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
And it'll be the highlight of your day.
Barn Hill offers otter swims, which last for about an hour and allow you to splash around with real otters!
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
Space is limited to make sure it's a positive experience for the otters, but these little fellas look like they're having a blast.
You don't often get the chance to swim with wildlife, let alone something as adorable as an otter.
Barn Hill Preserve/Facebook
Put this one-in-a-lifetime-experience on the bucket list this year, you won't regret it.

Otter swims are limited, so you’ll want to book yours ahead of time. Click here to check out their schedule and purchase your tickets. For more information, be sure to check out their website and give them a follow on Facebook.

Have you ever visited Barn Hill Preserve and swam with the otters? Let us know in the comments below!

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Featured Addresses
Barn Hill Preserve, 11342 LA-955, Ethel, LA 70730, USA