The Red River Zoological Society was formed in 1993 with the intent of building a premier zoological facility in Fargo, North Dakota. Through land sold and donated to the Fargo Park District by the Anderson Family, the Red River Zoo was able to obtain a long term lease (99 years) of 34 acres with the intent of building a zoo. Thanks to the progressive vision and thinking of leaders in the Fargo community, the Red River Zoo was constructed and opened to the public in May of 1999.

The Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and a premier attraction for the city of Fargo and surrounding area.