Alpine Acres Sanctuary Farm

The Children’s Nature Retreat Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and their families.  The focus at our animal sanctuary in Alpine, California is rooted in nurturing a deep connection with the natural world; while in Burkina Faso, West Africa, we provide support to families and access to education from pre-school age through high school.

Our Mission at the farm

Alpine Acres Sanctuary Farm provides a safe haven for mostly rescued farm animals while practicing sustainable, chemical-free agriculture in the serene mountains of Alpine, California. We are dedicated to creating healing connections between humans and animals, fostering compassion, and demonstrating that ethical animal care and environmental stewardship can thrive together.

Our Vision

To be a beacon of hope where every animal finds peace, every visitor discovers joy, and sustainable farming practices nurture both the earth and the soul. We envision a world where compassion guides our relationship with all living beings and where agriculture works in harmony with nature.

Our Values

• Compassion: Every animal deserves love, care, and dignity regardless of their species or past
• Healing: We provide a space for animals and humans to find peace, joy, and emotional restoration
• Sustainability: We grow food without chemicals or pesticides, respecting the earth that sustains us all
• Connection: We foster meaningful relationships between humans and animals that inspire mindfulness and presence
• Community: We welcome all who share our commitment to animal welfare and environmental responsibility
• Integrity: We operate with transparency, honesty, and respect for all living beings

What We Do

At our 20-acre sanctuary nestled among majestic oak trees, we care for nearly 200 rescued animals ranging from gentle bunnies to magnificent bison. Our diverse family includes zebras, horses, cows, sheep, llamas, alpacas, goats, tortoises, birds, ostriches, reptiles and many others who have found their forever home with us.

Simultaneously, we cultivate a variety of fruits and vegetables using beyond-organic practices, proving that sustainable agriculture and animal sanctuary work can coexist beautifully. Our visitors experience the profound healing that comes from connecting with animals in a peaceful, natural setting while witnessing responsible land stewardship in action.

Our Promise

We promise to be faithful guardians of the animals in our care, responsible stewards of our land, and dedicated advocates for a more compassionate world. Through our daily work, we demonstrate that two missions can indeed share one heart - creating a sanctuary where animals thrive and sustainable farming in San Diego's East County.