Southern Nevada Zoological-Botanical Park

The Southern Nevada Zoological-Botanical Park occupied 3 acres northwest of the Las Vegas Strip with approximately 150 animals spread across outdoor exhibits. The grounds combined animal enclosures with botanical gardens and featured a petting zoo plus a small gem display area.

Pat Dingle, a Vietnam War veteran and former bird store owner, established this facility in 1981 with guidance from the San Diego Zoo. The park became a regional attraction before closing permanently in 2013.

The facility displayed desert animals and plants, offering visitors a window into how life thrives in arid climates. This space served as a place where people could learn about local wildlife and ecosystems.

Entry required admission fees, supplemented by a gift shop for additional revenue. Visitors should prepare for dry, hot conditions typical of the desert environment and bring adequate water.

For many years, the facility housed the last family of endangered Barbary apes in the United States. These rare primates departed in 2013, making this location a notable chapter in local conservation efforts.