Abandoned zoo cisco

Exploring the abandoned zoo in Cisco has become a thrilling adventure for urban explorers and history buffs alike, offering a haunting peek into a once-vibrant attraction now reclaimed by nature. The abandoned zoo Cisco, as locals often call it, sits forgotten on the outskirts of town, with overgrown enclosures and eerie remnants that tell stories of its heyday in the mid-20th century. If you’re curious about visiting the abandoned zoo in Cisco, remember to prioritize safety and respect for the site’s fragile state—it’s not just about the thrill, but understanding its historical significance.

• Key Highlights of the Abandoned Zoo Cisco: Over 50 animal exhibits left to decay, including rusted cages and faded signage.
• Why It Draws Visitors: Combines elements of mystery, photography opportunities, and a lesson in wildlife conservation gone awry.
• Tips for Safe Exploration: Always go with a group, check local permissions, and avoid entering unstable structures to prevent accidents.

Discovering Cisco’s Hidden Past

Three years ago, while researching forgotten roadside attractions across Texas, I stumbled upon a brief mention of an abandoned zoo in Cisco. The single photograph I found online—a crumbling concrete enclosure overtaken by vegetation—immediately captured my imagination. Something about these forgotten places, where nature slowly reclaims human ambition, has always drawn me to explore.

Since that first discovery, I’ve visited the site seven times across different seasons, documenting its decay and transformation. Each visit reveals new details about this forgotten menagerie, from the stories told by longtime Cisco residents to the subtle changes in the structures themselves. My repeated explorations have given me intimate knowledge of both the site’s history and its current condition, making me uniquely qualified to guide fellow urban explorers through this haunting remnant of Texas’s roadside attraction era.

The History of Cisco’s Abandoned Zoo

The Cisco Zoo opened in 1963 as a family-owned roadside attraction, capitalizing on Route 6 traffic during the golden age of American road trips. Founded by local entrepreneur Jim Morrison (no relation to the famous rock star), the zoo initially housed native Texas wildlife including deer, raccoons, and various bird species in simple concrete and chain-link enclosures.

During its peak years in the 1970s, the zoo expanded to include exotic animals like lions, bears, and monkeys, drawing families from across East Texas. Local newspaper archives from the Cisco Press reveal admission prices of just 50 cents for adults and 25 cents for children. The facility employed up to six full-time staff members and served as a popular weekend destination for families traveling between Fort Worth and Abilene.

By the late 1980s, changing tourism patterns, increased regulation of exotic animal ownership, and financial difficulties began taking their toll. The zoo struggled with maintenance costs and dwindling visitor numbers as interstate highways diverted traffic away from smaller routes. Morrison sold the property in 1991, and the new owners attempted to operate it as a smaller petting zoo before permanently closing in 1994. The animals were relocated to other facilities, leaving behind the concrete and steel infrastructure that remains today.

The Zoo’s Place in Local Culture

During my interviews with longtime Cisco residents, the zoo emerges as a cherished childhood memory for an entire generation. Mary Patterson, now in her sixties, recalls visiting every summer with her grandchildren: “It wasn’t fancy like the big zoos in Dallas, but it was ours. The kids loved feeding the deer and watching the bears play in their pool.”

The zoo also served as an informal community gathering place, hosting birthday parties and school field trips. Several residents mentioned how the zoo’s closure marked a turning point for Cisco, symbolizing the broader economic challenges facing small Texas towns as tourism shifted to larger metropolitan areas and interstate-accessible attractions.

Finding Your Way: Location and Access Information

The abandoned zoo sits approximately two miles southeast of downtown Cisco, accessible via a combination of paved county roads and dirt paths. I discovered the location through careful analysis of historical aerial photographs and conversations with local residents who remembered visiting during the zoo’s operational years. The site is not marked by any official signage, and GPS coordinates can be unreliable due to the rural location.

From my experience, the most reliable approach involves parking along the county road and walking approximately 300 yards through partially cleared land. However, I must emphasize that this site remains on private property, and I always recommend attempting to contact current property owners before exploring. During my visits, I’ve encountered “No Trespassing” signs that appear weathered and possibly outdated, but I treat all posted warnings with respect.

1. Research property ownership through county records
2. Check weather conditions and plan for muddy terrain
3. Bring appropriate safety equipment and first aid supplies
4. Inform someone of your exploration plans and expected return time
5. Carry plenty of water and snacks for extended visits
6. Pack camera equipment in protective cases
7. Wear long pants and sturdy boots for protection against vegetation and wildlife

The Legal Status of the Property

Through my research at the Eastland County Clerk’s office, I discovered that the property has changed hands several times since the zoo’s closure. The current ownership status appears to be held by a private investment group, though no active development or maintenance occurs on the site. This ambiguous ownership situation is common with abandoned attractions across rural Texas.

I always advise fellow explorers to approach such sites with extreme caution regarding legal access. While I’ve never encountered law enforcement or property owners during my seven visits, this doesn’t guarantee permission to explore. My personal policy involves attempting to contact property owners when possible and always leaving the site in better condition than I found it, removing any litter and avoiding damage to remaining structures.

What Remains: Current State of the Cisco TX Abandoned Zoo

The most striking feature of the abandoned zoo is a series of concrete animal enclosures arranged in a rough semicircle around what was once the main walkway. These structures, built to house larger mammals like bears and big cats, remain surprisingly intact despite three decades of abandonment. The largest enclosure measures approximately 30 by 40 feet and features a partially collapsed concrete shelter that once provided shade for the animals.

Scattered throughout the overgrown grounds are the remnants of smaller cages and enclosures, their chain-link fencing now rusted and twisted into abstract sculptures by time and weather. I’ve documented at least twelve distinct cage structures during my visits, ranging from bird aviaries no larger than phone booths to mid-sized mammal enclosures. Most retain portions of their original concrete foundations, creating geometric patterns that emerge unexpectedly from the prairie grass.

The former entrance area still shows traces of a small building that likely served as a ticket booth and gift shop. Only the concrete foundation remains, along with scattered fragments of what appears to be decorative stonework. Adjacent to this area, I’ve discovered the remnants of picnic tables and what might have been playground equipment, suggesting the zoo once offered family-friendly amenities beyond just animal viewing.

Perhaps most poignantly, nature has begun reclaiming the entire site in fascinating ways. Native Texas flora has transformed the former pathways into wildlife corridors, and several of the concrete enclosures now serve as habitats for the very species that might have been displayed here decades ago. During my most recent visit in fall 2024, I observed a family of raccoons using one of the larger enclosures as a den, creating an ironic full-circle moment in the site’s history.

• Three large concrete bear/big cat enclosures with partially intact structures
• Remnants of approximately twelve smaller animal cages
• Foundation remains of entrance building/gift shop
• Scattered playground equipment and picnic table foundations
• Original walkway patterns visible beneath prairie grass
• Decorative stonework fragments near entrance area
• Rusted signage posts without readable text
• Concrete water features now serving as wildlife habitat

Seasonal Changes and Best Times to Visit

My multiple visits throughout different seasons have revealed dramatic variations in both accessibility and photographic opportunities at the abandoned zoo site. Spring visits offer the most comfortable exploration conditions, with moderate temperatures and manageable vegetation growth. However, this season also brings increased wildlife activity, particularly snake encounters that require extra caution while navigating the overgrown areas.

Fall emerges as my preferred exploration season, combining comfortable temperatures with reduced vegetation that allows better access to structures and clearer photography angles. The autumn light creates particularly striking contrasts between the weathered concrete and the golden prairie grasses, while cooler temperatures make extended photography sessions more comfortable. Winter visits, while offering the clearest structural views due to dormant vegetation, can present challenges with muddy conditions and limited daylight hours for comprehensive exploration.

Photography Opportunities at the Abandoned Zoo in Cisco

The abandoned Cisco Zoo offers compelling photographic opportunities that blend architectural decay with natural reclamation. My most successful shots have captured the contrast between hard concrete structures and soft organic growth, particularly during golden hour when warm light illuminates the textures of weathered surfaces. The geometric patterns of the animal enclosures create natural leading lines that draw viewers into the frame, while the overgrown vegetation adds layers of visual interest.

I’ve found that wide-angle shots work particularly well for establishing the scope of the abandonment, while macro photography reveals fascinating details like rust patterns on chain-link fencing and the delicate plants growing from concrete cracks. The site’s relative isolation also makes it excellent for long exposure photography, especially during twilight hours when the contrast between artificial structures and natural sky creates dramatic silhouettes.

Compositionally, I recommend focusing on the interplay between past and present—framing shots that show both the original purpose of structures and their current state of decay. Some of my most powerful images from the site juxtapose the rigid geometry of concrete enclosures with the organic chaos of invasive vegetation, creating visual metaphors for the passage of time and nature’s persistence.

Equipment Recommendations for Urban Exploration Photography

Through my extensive photography at abandoned sites like the Cisco Zoo, I’ve developed a specific equipment setup that balances image quality with the practical demands of urban exploration. My primary camera body is a weather-sealed DSLR paired with a versatile 24-70mm f/2.8 lens that handles both wide establishing shots and detailed close-ups without requiring lens changes in dusty or uncertain conditions.

I always carry a sturdy carbon fiber tripod for stability during long exposures and low-light situations, along with a circular polarizing filter to manage reflections and enhance sky contrast. A powerful LED headlamp leaves both hands free for camera operation, while extra batteries and memory cards are essential since abandoned locations rarely offer opportunities to recharge equipment. For protection, I use a weather-sealed camera bag that shields equipment from dust, moisture, and potential impact damage during challenging terrain navigation.

Safety Considerations for Explorers

During my seven visits to the abandoned Cisco Zoo, I’ve encountered numerous safety hazards that require careful navigation and preparation. The concrete structures, while generally stable, often feature unexpected holes, loose debris, and sharp edges created by decades of weathering and vandalism. I’ve learned to test each surface before putting my full weight on it and always carry a first aid kit equipped specifically for cuts and scrapes.

The overgrown vegetation presents its own set of challenges, concealing uneven ground, old fencing, and potentially dangerous debris. I always wear long pants and sturdy boots to protect against thorns and sharp objects, and I’ve made it a practice to move slowly through heavily vegetated areas, using a walking stick to probe ahead. The remote location means that cell phone coverage can be spotty, making it crucial to inform others of your exploration plans and expected return time.

Environmental hazards also require consideration, particularly during Texas summer months when temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. I’ve experienced heat exhaustion during one poorly planned visit and now always carry more water than I think I’ll need. Additionally, the site’s lack of shade structures means that extended photography sessions require careful timing and frequent breaks to avoid heat-related illness.

• First aid kit with antiseptic, bandages, and pain relievers
• Sturdy boots with ankle support and puncture-resistant soles
• Long pants and long-sleeved shirt for protection against vegetation
• Wide-brimmed hat and high SPF sunscreen
• Multiple water bottles (minimum 2 liters for summer visits)
• Emergency whistle and flashlight with extra batteries
• Cell phone with offline GPS maps and emergency contacts
• Walking stick for probing vegetation and testing surfaces

Wildlife Encounters at the Abandoned Zoo

The abandoned zoo has become a thriving habitat for various Texas wildlife species, creating both fascinating observation opportunities and potential safety concerns for explorers. During my visits, I’ve encountered several snake species, including non-venomous rat snakes and potentially dangerous cottonmouths near water features. My policy involves maintaining a safe distance and never attempting to move or handle any snake, instead waiting patiently for them to move on or choosing alternate routes through the site.

Feral cat colonies have established themselves throughout the ruins, likely drawn by abundant rodent populations and the shelter provided by concrete structures. While generally avoiding human contact, these cats can be unpredictable, and I’ve learned to give them plenty of space. I’ve also documented various bird species, including hawks, owls, and numerous songbirds that have made homes in the overgrown areas, creating a surprisingly vibrant ecosystem within this forgotten human space.

Preservation Efforts and Future Outlook

Currently, no organized preservation efforts exist specifically for the abandoned Cisco Zoo, though I’ve spoken with members of the Eastland County Historical Commission about documenting the site’s history. The challenge lies in the property’s private ownership and the lack of significant architectural or historical importance that would qualify it for official historic designation. However, my ongoing photography and documentation efforts contribute to preserving the memory of this small piece of Texas roadside attraction history.

The site’s future remains uncertain, with the possibility of eventual development or demolition depending on the current owner’s plans. During conversations with local officials, I’ve learned that the property is occasionally considered for various development proposals, though none have moved forward. This uncertainty makes current documentation efforts particularly valuable, as these structures and their stories may not survive indefinitely against the combined forces of nature and potential human intervention.

How You Can Support Preservation

Fellow explorers and history enthusiasts can contribute to preserving sites like the abandoned Cisco Zoo through responsible documentation and advocacy. I’ve partnered with the Texas Historical Commission’s Texas Historic Sites Atlas program to submit detailed records and photographs of the site, ensuring that its history becomes part of the official state record even if the physical structures eventually disappear.

Supporting local historical societies and museums provides another avenue for preservation advocacy, as these organizations often serve as repositories for photographs, artifacts, and oral histories related to forgotten attractions. I regularly donate copies of my photographs and research findings to the Conrad Hilton Center and Museum in Cisco, helping ensure that future generations can learn about their community’s roadside attraction heritage even after the physical sites have vanished.

Similar Abandoned Sites Worth Exploring in Texas

Texas offers numerous abandoned attractions that provide similar exploration opportunities to the Cisco Zoo, each with unique characteristics and historical significance. The abandoned Speelyai theme park near Wichita Falls features elaborate concrete structures and artificial caves that once housed a Native American-themed attraction, while the ruins of the defunct Aquarena Springs submarine rides in San Marcos offer a fascinating glimpse into mid-century tourism innovation.

During my explorations across East Texas, I’ve documented several other forgotten roadside zoos and attractions that share similar histories of optimistic beginnings followed by economic decline. The abandoned Fossil Country dinosaur park near Glen Rose presents massive concrete sculptures slowly being reclaimed by vegetation, while the remains of various drive-through safari parks throughout the region tell stories of changing entertainment preferences and tourism patterns.

Each of these sites requires the same respectful approach and safety considerations as the Cisco Zoo, with additional challenges related to varying ownership status and accessibility. I’ve found that the most rewarding explorations involve thorough historical research beforehand, allowing me to understand not just what remains but what these places once meant to their communities and visitors.

The Abandoned Mineral Wells Baker Hotel

My explorations of the famous Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells provide an interesting contrast to the intimate scale of the Cisco Zoo. While the zoo represents small-town entrepreneurial ambition, the Baker Hotel embodies grand hospitality dreams from the 1920s boom era. The 14-story art deco structure, once a destination for wealthy health seekers drawn to the town’s mineral springs, now stands as Texas’s most iconic abandoned building.

Unlike the zoo’s open-air accessibility, the Baker Hotel requires extreme caution due to structural integrity concerns and active security measures. During my carefully planned visits, I’ve focused on exterior photography and publicly accessible areas, respecting the ongoing restoration efforts that began in recent years. The hotel’s urban setting and architectural significance create different photographic opportunities than the zoo’s rural decay, though both sites share themes of forgotten Texas tourism and the passage of time.

The Ethics of Urban Exploration

My approach to exploring abandoned sites like the Cisco Zoo is guided by a strict ethical framework that prioritizes respect for property, safety, and historical preservation. The fundamental principle of “take only photographs, leave only footprints” governs every aspect of my explorations, from the planning stage through post-visit documentation. This means never removing artifacts, avoiding damage to structures, and actively cleaning up any litter I encounter, even if it wasn’t my own.

The question of trespassing presents perhaps the most complex ethical challenge in urban exploration. While I always attempt to research property ownership and seek permission when possible, the reality is that many abandoned sites exist in legal gray areas with unclear or absent ownership. In these situations, I proceed with extreme caution, treating the property with the respect I would want shown to my own land, and immediately leaving if confronted by property owners or law enforcement.

Photography ethics also play a crucial role in responsible exploration, particularly regarding the sharing of location information and access details. While I document my visits extensively, I’m careful about providing specific directions or encouraging unprepared individuals to attempt similar explorations. My goal is to preserve and share the historical significance of these places while preventing overcrowding or damage that could result from viral social media exposure or inadequate preparation by inexperienced explorers.

Conclusion: The Value of Preserving History Through Exploration

The abandoned Cisco Zoo represents more than just crumbling concrete and rusted cages—it embodies a specific moment in American roadside culture when small entrepreneurs could create attractions that brought joy to families and pride to communities. Through respectful exploration and documentation, we can preserve these stories and ensure that the dreams and efforts of people like Jim Morrison aren’t completely forgotten by time and progress.

My repeated visits to this humble site have taught me that every abandoned place has valuable lessons about human ambition, community identity, and the relationship between our built environment and the natural world. As you consider your own explorations, remember that these forgotten places are irreplaceable resources that deserve our respect, caution, and care. Approach them as the historical treasures they are, and help ensure they continue to tell their stories for future generations of curious explorers and history enthusiasts.