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About Longneck Manor
Where Passion for
Wildlife Became a Purpose
Longneck Manor was founded on a simple belief: when people experience wildlife up close, they are moved to protect it. What began as a passion for giraffe conservation has grown into an Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA)-accredited, 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation park and wildlife destination where extraordinary animal encounters and refined hospitality exist side by side.
Guests can visit for daytime encounters with our resident reticulated giraffes and southern white rhinoceros, or stay overnight just steps from the giraffe barn. Every visit to Longneck Manor deepens our guests' understanding of wildlife and the importance of protecting it.
Your Memories. Their Future.
Rick Barongi, Founder and CEO
I'm Rick Barongi, Founder and CEO of Longneck Manor. Over more than 50 years in zoological management, including serving as Director of the Houston Zoo and as the lead animal executive for Disney's Animal Kingdom, I have had one consistent goal: when people meet animals, they leave wanting to protect them.
The goal at Longneck Manor is to provide a meaningful personal experience while helping to save animals in the wild. We do this by combining the best elements of a world-class zoo with those of a serious conservation organization. Guests contribute to the Longneck Manor Conservation Foundation, our 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm, which works with colleagues I have known and respected throughout my career, including the International Rhino Foundation, Save Giraffes Now, and the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. These are people who have dedicated their careers to protecting animals in the field, and we will share their stories to inspire you to help make a difference.
Conservation is most effective when everyone participates. Visit us in Fredericksburg, Texas—just an hour from San Antonio and 90 minutes from Austin—and experience first hand how your stay helps make a difference.
Our Mission & Conservation Commitment
Longneck Manor is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and ethical wildlife tourism. As an AZA-accredited, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we uphold the same standards of animal care, veterinary oversight, and conservation practice that govern the world's leading zoological institutions.
Every tour and overnight stay directly supports the Longneck Manor Conservation Foundation, funding the International Rhino Foundation, Save Giraffes Now, and the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. These are organizations protecting all giraffe and rhinos species and many other endangered animals across the globe. From up-close animal encounters to youth education programs, every visit is built around the belief that conservation starts with connection.
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