We had a wonderful experience and learned so much about wolves, how they have been villanized, and how they are vital creatures to the ecosystem. They were clear about the fact that these are wolfdogs. There's a rise in these wolf sanctuaries because of the rise in wolf popularity from movies and TV in recent years prompting people to breed them to have as pets, but they end up being mishandled because the owner was unprepared for their wild instincts and complex needs. All the wolfdogs they have are rescued. Colette did a great job educating and also preparing us to meet the wolfdogs. We felt safe the entire time and you can really get a sense of each animal's mood by simply watching them. Wahkan was eager to meet us and immediately friendly. We were told it took 5 years for him to become this friendly. Kiyuska was anxious and afraid of my husband. We were told that she doesn't like men likely from previous abuse. She constantly paced and looked at him to make sure he wasn't a threat, but eventually warmed up enough to take food from his hand. There were 8 month old pups that we saw but didn't personally interact with since they are young and have not learned how to be gentle yet. We were told that they are usually shy and reserved but that day they actually showed interest in us and eventually settled down to be very calm. Great progress for their integration. Yes, these animals can be dangerous if they feel threatened but they are well cared for and very well handled. Colette took many pictures and videos of our interactions and kindly edited and sent them to us. The admission price goes towards caring for these wolfdogs. I'm glad we were able to have this experience and they provided great service and education about conservation. read more

Shadowland Foundation - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

I went here about a decade ago and it still haunts me, hence the review now despite the passage of time. I love wolves, I love responsible education and interaction with wolves. Shadowland does not offer either. First, these are not true wolves but wolfdogs. You can see by the foundations responses whenever people criticize them they skirt around the issue. They might be high Content wolfdogs, but nevertheless, they are not truly wolves and any attempt to portray them as otherwise is a scam. Second, regardless of whether or not they are wolves or wolfdogs, the way that they allow the public to interact so closely with them is not just irresponsible, but dangerous. Allowing people to pet and kiss these animals in the face is asking for a disaster. It will only be a matter of time before one of them bites someone. If the folks who run this foundation actually cared for their animals, they would not expose them to this risk because once they bite, there is a good chance they would need to be euthanized. It's clear that profit is a motivating factor when they allow both their animals and the public to be in danger. On another note, any reliable sanctuary would not breed wolves to further their captivity - the only legit program in California engaged in breeding are the Mexican grey wolf program for release. At Shadowland, they are not actually wolves therefore none of their animals would be viable for release. They are breeding the animals for PROFIT which is highly questionable from an ethical standpoint. Finally they are NOT an accredited Sanctuary (via Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries), they are only a nonprofit which has no bearing on how ethically they treat their animals or the public. If you are considering visiting this place, please think long and hard about your motivations and whether it is propelled by a selfish desire to touch a wolf or if you actually care about their well-being. read more

Had a great time spending time with one of my favorite animals the wolf, highly recommend this experience you can see how much love and care goes into these animals and into the species as a whole read more

See all

What an AMAZING day it was!!!! I'm so completely recharged after spending 2 hrs at Shadowland Foundation!!! The host, Colette aka Wolf Mom is SO Wonderful!!! Love her!!! The center is located in a beautiful Lake Hughes. They created a cozy ranch style facility with hills and pond. My friend and I requested a private visit that includes education about wolves. Learning about the organization, background of each wolf, meeting wolves, feeding them and hanging out with them. Colette is such a wise woman and a gracious host. We had so much fun and learned a lot today. All the wolf (hybrids) are so adorable and gentle. We can tell they receive plenty love and care from Colette, her husband Paul and other care takers. We received so much healing and love from their wolves. We couldn't stop smiling. I visited other wolf hybrid place last month but I prefer today's very intimate experience. I highly highly recommend you to visit Shadowland Foundation. We can't wait to return!! read more

See all

After visiting Shadowland months ago, the peaceful energy still lingers in my soul. Collette's passion and dedication to her pack and her knowledge about the wolf species and their threatened place in the world allows for a feeling of compassion for these beautiful creatures, regardless of being pure or hybrid. Beyond the encounter with the pack, my experience at the sanctuary was healing and magical - raven, dragonfly and owl medicine, too. Collette's ceremony was powerful and enlightening and I am grateful for her clear and supportive messages. read more

This organization has a lot of educational opportunities to help people understand the plight of wolves and their importance in the environment. read more

I cried. This is such a healing place. Colette and Paul have dedicated themselves to not only providing sanctuary, but a life and a family to these beautifully misunderstood animals. The grounds are a scenic green oasis and during the informative talk, you can hear the wolves howling. A visit to Shadowland is like no other, the wolves are almost indescribable... If you are ever in Southern California, GO. If you have an affinity for dogs, GO. If you are an animal-lover / advocate, GO. If you need to heal, GO. This is a sanctuary that cares not only about saving these animal's lives, but about Educating people about conservation and protection. I cannot stress enough how special this foundation is and how little we know about this species that has been so cruelly treated. A real hidden Gem in the state of California. Much love to these two angels that have saved so many special lives, Paul and Colette. read more

Shadowland Foundation - A Father and his Daughters.... - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

Wolf or wolf hybrid aside, I think what's important is that the once in a lifetime experience and education Shadowland Foundation provides leaves you with an overwhelming sense of the impact humans and our government has on the survival of wolves in the wild and on our environment as a whole. My bet is that being able to interact with Paul and Collette and their pack who serve as ambassadors for the endangered Gray, Red and Mexican Gray wolves in the wild will make most people realize the need for our respect and protection this magnificent creature deserves. And that is a very good thing if you ask me. read more

Shadowland Foundation - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

See all

Wow! Went this weekend and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.The wolves are magnificent-being that close to interact with them was unforgettable.The materials and video presented were so helpful. These are very passionate and compassionate people who have dedicated their lives to these animals.I'm so happy I was able to experience. Very positive experience.Thank you so much! Please ignore the ignorant haters who write such destructive, ignorant, and twisted comments. They must live under a moldy rock! read more

Shadowland Foundation - Wow! Went this weekend and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.The wolves are magnificent-being that close to interact with them was unforgettable. - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

Beautiful experience! Amazing to be able to touch and be so close to these animals. You get a history of how this came to be and about the wolves. The whole thing was great!! read more

See all

Shadowland hosted a private party for my aunt's 70th birthday, and since my parents and I were travelling from out of town, we got to stay right on the property in the guest building. I have to say the price for the accommodation were very reasonable given that we had a bed, two sleeper sofas, a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer. See AirBnB for more info on that! We were in CA for 6 days and I can honestly say the educational experience and visit with the wolves was my favorite part of our whole trip. I learned a lot of new things about the way wolves interact with the local ecology and the issues with protecting them. And what's not to love about getting to pet and feed domesticated wolves? As an added bonus, we got to listen to the wolves howl every dawn and dusk. Also, every morning around 5am the alpha male Takota would stop by our building and peer in at us through the windows and glass door. Such a great and unique experience, check it out! read more

What an amazing place! Collette, and her team of incredibly friendly and understanding colleagues, opened their doors to my son and I for a customized visit with their beautiful wolf pack. They did such a great job explaining what to expect, and disseminating information in an interesting approachable way. My son and I were entranced with the majestic wolves, and the interesting pack behavior. They are gorgeous! Huge! Loving! It was truly an unforgettable experience, and we are already planning a future visit. The Shadowland Foundation is doing their best to save the wolves, and educate people about this keystone species. A totally unique, fun, and downright awesome way to spend an afternoon. A first class operation in every way. Hooooowwwwllll! read more

Shadowland Foundation - sleeping beauty - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

This is an experience that words can't explain completely. The professionalism and knowledge Collette has about these wolves makes you want to love and protect not just her pack but all packs around the world. We enjoyed meeting all of the wolves and learning so much about them and their history. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone and everyone looking for a full spiritual connection to these kind hearted wild creatures!!! read more

Shadowland Foundation - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

Recently my family took me to Shadowland Foundattion as a surprise 80th birthday present. We had a private tour that was truly a once in a lifetime experience. I love animals, especially wolves and was not disappointed with my interaction. Colette and her staff are wonderful-knowledgeable and friendly. There was an extensive educational presentation before the visit. Then we were introduced to the pack. These are not domesticated dogs. Anyone with an ounce of awareness can sense the wildness beneath the surface. They are well trained animals and they seem to enjoy the interactions with humans but be assured it is on their terms. Takota, the alpha, was in charge of his wolves and their mingling with humans. He seemed to be patrolling just to be sure all was well. The sweetness of these animals is above reproach. We went home tired and happy, more educated, and covered in wolf hair. read more

Shadowland Foundation - A happy family. - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Lake Hughes, California

So worth it! We did a private visit and experienced/learned so much in just two hours. We were treated to the meeting of the pack. Colette, Mary and Antoinette were wonderful hosts and teachers. Unforgettable! read more

See all

This was an very enjoyable trip for our little family. Incredibly educational and exciting hands on experience with wolves. Shadowland makes sure everyone gets a chance to individually meet, feed, and get photo-ops with the wolves; everyone leaves happy. Check the weather...it was warm in the valley, but very cold and windy at the ranch and we were underdressed. read more

See all

Paul and Colette where very hospitable and down to earth. They shared interesting facts about the wolves habitat, eating habits and special abilities. Their ranch is well maintained and gave me a feeling of serenity which was well needed from my busy city life. Thank you for a memorable experience this past weekend. Hope to see you all in the near future. read more

Why don't you people who want to write a negative review about Shadowland go somewhere else to post your remarks. We don't need you. I know the Pondellas because of their tree business & couldn't be more proud of them teaching people about wolves, hybrid or not. These animals are beautiful & misunderstood. Collette & Paul just want people to know about their habits & teach children & adults that they are a treasured species that we need to protect. Keep your negativity to yourself or pick on something or someone else who deserves it. Thank you Paul & Collette for your contribution to the animal world. We need more people like you. Janie Gorball read more

Shadowland Foundation is a great organization that really cares for its wolves. It's an educational service, first and foremost. Their primary goal is to teach about conservation and explain the history of the species in America, as well as their significance in Native American culture. After watching video clips, short films, and power points, you get to meet the resident wolves. There's one set of wolves you can pet, and another that you primarily feed. This experience is unlike any other in terms of how close you can get to the wolves and how incredibly affectionate most of them are despite still being wild creatures. Shadowland Foundation is free, with a recommendation to donate. The organization is fantastic and truly cares for their animals. read more

To be fair, I'm glad I went as I enjoyed meeting the wolf-hybrids and learning some information about wolves; however, I felt the educational content could be stronger and more scientific. In addition, although the founders are extremely heartfelt and passionate, there's a bit of Grizzly Man vibe mixed with Sea World animal tricks. Socializing the animals is important, yet at the same time there seemed a lack of respect for the animals true nature and wildness. read more

Dogs in Wolf Clothing. They do a good job of presenting the devastating slaughter of wolves by ranchers and others with the support of government and they help educate people about this important problem. Go on-line and read about it. The "wovles" they have are not wolves at all but various hybrids of dogs with some wolf blood. They keep calling them wolves. Though the animals are beautiful they put on this big show building up the supposed danger of these animals and then do a Sea World type presentation with the dogs snatching treats off people's heads or out of their mouths. My dog can do that too and I would only charge you $5 to see it instead of $30. They add these whole new agey "power of the pack" business and get misty eyed about their dog Shadow. It is mostly self serving and a pretty good business idea (semi scam). At least they could give some of the profits to help support organizations that are fighting to preserve wolves. read more

Any visitor to Shadowland Foundation should be on notice ... these are NOT wolves. The animals they have are huskies, mixed breed, and perhaps a few low-content wolfdogs. While I appreciate the attention Shadowland gives to the plight of the wolf and in giving education to the public, I am NOT happy that they are telling visitors that their animals are wolves when they are not. There are number of ways you can distinguish wolves from non-wolves: wolves have heavily tufted ears, no abrupt stops (on their snouts), long legs, and very big paws. The "wolves" at Shadowland are NOT wolves. Don't be fooled. If you want to see and interact with real wolves, you can visit Wolf Mountain Sanctuary in Lucerne Valley, CA. Buyer Beware. read more

Amazing!! I purchased tickets for my family visiting from Australia, as my nephew is crazy about wolves. What can I say - customer service is amazing and nothing was too difficult when setting up their visit. All staff were fantastic on the day and gave my family the best experience possible! Not only did they have an educational session about wolves and their importance to the environment (something my nephew is still talking about and educating others months later), they also got to meet and touch the wolves. You cannot get this opportunity anywhere else! Whilst they visited some of the biggest attractions in LA - it's Shadowland that my niece and nephew talk about the most. Highly recommend!!!! read more

Shadowland Foundation has stolen a piece of my heart. Never in my life did I imagine that I would be sitting in the middle of a pack of wolves that were sniffing and kissing me while I pet them. Not only do Paul and Colette educate people about wolves and the conservation of wolves but they also educate people about the differences between wolves and dogs. I learned so much. We came home with tons of pictures, a little bit of wolf slobber, a lot of smiles, and memories that will last forever. Definitely recommend!! read more

I was one of a group of Reiki practitioners who had the privilege and immense pleasure of visiting the wolves at Shadowland Foundation 11 days ago and sharing healing energy with them while basking in their unconditional love and unique energy. Tom, the "wolf whisperer," has accomplished things in training the wolves that other animal trainers said was impossible. You can even trust them to find a piece of kielbasa UNDER YOUR HAT and eat it without even pulling your hair. Collette, the other half of Shadowland's team, is a marvelous story teller and educated us about the critical role wolves play in the ecosystem. THIS IS A MUST-VISIT LOCATION if you live in and/or visit Southern California! read more

Shadowland is an incredible place in the mountains East of Lake Castaic. The wolves are so beautiful and the interaction is amazing. Paul and Colette, two very special human beings, have 9 wolves and one four month old puppy. What you will learn and experience is beyond invaluable! read more

My sister in law told me about this place because my six year old son is obsessed with wolves. I am so glad we went! A month before we visited Shadowland, my family visited a neighborhood "zoo" in Atascadero that was so depressing, my kids were near tears and by the end of the trip, plotting to break out the poor animals. The animals were locked in too small cages, unhealthy or injured, and just plain miserable. It was awful. What a different experience we had at Shadowland. The people who run this foundation truly love and respect the animals they care for and they inspire that respect from their visitors. They start with a slide show presentation that is educational and enlightening. The staff were honest and told us up front these were not 100% wild wolves, because, obviously, real wild wolves belong in the wild. These are wolf/dog hybrids but they do look, behave and howl as a real wolf pack do. This is probably the closest you could or should get to a wolf! Between my brother's family and myself, we had seven kids between the ages of 6-15, yet Paul and Colette were so patient with us and made sure each child had a chance to feed the wolves and get a photo with them. The wolves were beautiful, gentle, and so much fun! Each had such a distinct personality and it was so neat getting to know them. Some were a little more playful, some more shy, but they were all very sweet and seemed comfortable with us being there. You can tell these are well cared for and happy animals. They showed us where they host weddings and the wolves even participate, it's very cute! The kids left all wanting to rescue wolves when they grow up and they compared favorites: "Tehya" was quite popular with the girls, "Freedom" with the boys. The girls were even planning their future weddings at Shadowland. Be sure to check the weather, it was much colder than at home, thankfully we were dressed warm enough. Also, there was a lot of fur floating around and sticking to our clothes, so dress casual and bring an allergy pill just in case. I have recommended this place to everyone. The suggested donation is not too steep, and it is really an unforgettable experience. You will be so happy you went! read more

See all

Very rare and amazing opportunity to get up close and personal with actual wolves. These wolves will not be returning to the wild so there is no need to inhibit human contact with them -- they also live amazingly well with their owners. I would recommend this sanctuary over pretty much any of the other ones in the LA area. Other sanctuaries seem to not be able to provide their animals as much land-- here, they live wonderfully. read more

We visited shadowland foundation yesterday. And it was a very nice experience with the Wolf's my son had a amazing time. Also very nice people!! Going to go back soon. Hopefully more people will support and visit. read more

You can tell that these people really care about the fate of these beautiful wild animals and they are doing their sincere best to educate the public. My issue is that they've trained their wolves to perform parlour tricks and after about an hour of this, it started to make me really uncomfortable watching it. I thought they were going to show us the facilities and show us how they care for the wolves, really educate us on the organization, but instead they parade them around the room making them jump over circus hurdles and catch bits of salami thrown at them in midair. The owner also lost his temper when one of the younger wolves couldn't clear the hurdle bar and he yanked it out of his wife's hand angrily when she tried to adjust it for him. He didn't give the wolf enough space to get a running start at the bar and he also had just fed him 15 pieces of smoked sausage for no reason, so the animal didn't really want to perform the trick. It makes me think that maybe he also loses his temper with the animals the same way he did with his wife. I would have been happy if the wolves made a quick lap around the room and didn't perform for us. I could have done without all the circus tricks to be honest. It was ok at first and then it just seemed like he was showing off. read more

This sanctuary is a must visit! The staff were so welcoming and very informative about the wolves. There is no other place like this that allows you to pet the wolves, give them treats and take pictures with them. The wolves were so beautiful and very friendly and gentle! Even with children that were there visiting. They only ask for a $25 donation fee which is minimal in taking care of a wolf pack. Such an amazing and unique experience. I can't wait to visit again! read more

Everything they say about meeting, petting and feeding the wolves is true! This lasted 1 1/2 hours for the group of 25 or so. Awesome experience. It was preceded by a very informative 60 minute presentation about wolves. For me, 20 minutes would be be good. I really came to be up close with the wolves. read more

What an amazing place! Our family visited Shadowland's Ranch Freedom last Saturday and had a wonderful time. We learned more about these magnificent creatures in a few hours than we had even hoped. The educators were interesting and informative. We had plenty of time with the wolves - even though we were in the Saturday group. There were many opportunities for pictures as well as interaction with the wolves. It was truly an amazing experience. We highly recommend it to anyone who loves nature and appreciates the wonderful creatures we share the earth with. read more