Rosamond Gifford Zoo

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As a precautionary measure to protect our bird collection against the threat of Avian Influenza, birds at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo will be safely quarantined off exhibit.

Summer Zoo Camp

Summer Zoo Camp Header Image

Choose from nine wild weeks that are full of hands-on projects, performance, games, and interactive animal experiences. 

Spaces Fill Quickly - Act Fast!

There’s even more in 2025! Explore all the wonders of the animal world and beyond in one of the most exciting and interesting places possible- the zoo!

Explore, observe, design, create, and build in a learning experience beyond your imagination. Each week, campers will engage in STEAM challenges, animal encounters, zoo tours, creating animal enrichment and practicing conservation skills that will bring out their inner zooper-hero. At the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics have never been more fun!

Most camp sessions run from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Before and After Care available and runs from 8-9 a.m. and 4-5 p.m.
Exceptions are noted in the schedule below.
Before and Aftercare, weekly meal plans, and camp merchandise can be purchased through our registration site by adding them under the Sessions and Options step.


Registration Dates

ONLINE REGISTRATION STARTS:

Members: Wednesday, March 5 | 9 a.m.
Non-members: Wednesday, March 19 | 9 a.m.

Register online and find out instantly if your camper is placed into the camp he/she wants!
To make this process as fair as possible, we do not accept phone or in-person registrations.

If you're new to our online Camp system, make sure to Pre-Register by creating an account today!

 

Mark your calendars to register your child for Summer Zoo Camp 2025!


Become a Member Today!

Members receive a 7% discount on all camp sessions.

If you recently became a member and do not have your membership ID number during the registration process, your online order confirmation number may be used to verify a membership purchase. All zoo camp registrations with member discount applied will be verified.

Not a member? Now is a perfect time to join and start taking advantage of our fantastic membership benefits – including early access to zoo camp registration!

 


Camp Pricing

All camp sessions run Monday through Friday. Exceptions are noted in the camp descriptions.

Half-Day | 9 a.m.–12 noon
Ages 4-5 | $185
Week 1 & Week 5 Exceptions | $155

Full-Day | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Ages 6-11 | $295
Week 1 & Week 5 Exceptions | $245

Jr. Zookeeper Camps | 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ages 12-17 | $460

Jr. Zookeeper 2.0 Camps | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ages 14-17 | $485

Before or After Care: $50 per week

20 oz water Bottle: $15
Embroidered Cap: $15
Extra camp T-shirt: $12

Meal Plan Pricing:

5 Day Weekly Meal Plan: $55
4 Day Weekly Meal Plan: $44

Menu:

Mondays  

  • Turkey Sandwich (with mayo and lettuce on white bread) 
  • Potato Chips  
  • An Apple  
  • Chocolate Milk  
  • Animal Crackers 

Tuesdays  

  • Mac & Cheese  
  • Goldfish  
  • An Apple  
  • Fruit Punch  
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie  

Wednesdays  

  • Chicken Tenders  
  • Potato Chips  
  • An Apple  
  • White Milk  
  • Animal Crackers  

Thursdays  

  • Hot Dog  
  • Goldfish  
  • An Apple  
  • Apple Juice  
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie 

Fridays 

  • Kid’s Cheese Pizza  
  • Potato Chips 
  • An Apple  
  • Chocolate Milk  
  • Animal Crackers  

Need assistance navigating our camp management and registration system?

For questions, please contact the Education department at (315) 435-8511 x8506 or email [email protected].


Need Help? Use our helpful guide!

 


Registration Information

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo utilizes a camp software system that streamlines and improves the registration process, record keeping, attendance and safety and wellness of your child(ren). All personal, emergency, and medical information entered is kept securely and immediately accessible to camp staff, increasing our ability to perform to the highest quality. You can even sign up for a payment plan with a qualifying deposit at no extra cost! Parents will be able to purchase items such as additional shirts, hats, and water bottles as well as purchase meal plans! Education staff will be available to assist with learning and manipulating the system.

Members: Please make sure your membership is up to date prior to March 6. A membership discount code will be provided to members prior to the registration date. You will need your membership number for verification prior to registration to receive the discount. Please note that the participant must be covered under the membership account number to receive the discount. If non-members utilize the membership discount and membership registration period, you will be refunded and placed on the waitlist to be contacted when non-member registration begins. Call membership at (315) 435-8511 x8537 for any questions or concerns related to your membership account or to sign up for a membership.

Mail-in registrations will no longer be accepted or processed. Please contact the Education department at (315) 435-8511 x8559 for assistance with registering online for the best possible service and experience.

 

Yes! Registering multiple children for sessions is easy in our new system!

 

As educators, we feel that campers can maximize their Zoo Camp experience by interacting with peers of their own age level. All sessions are designed to offer hands-on learning that is age appropriate. The registration system will only show you the age-appropriate options available for your child. If there is no availability for your child for sessions in their age group, you can be placed on a waitlist through the registration system. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis as space becomes available. Exemptions to the age requirement can be made only if space becomes available closer to the start of the camp week and the waitlist for that session has been exhausted.

Please contact the Zoo Camp director with any questions or concerns.

There will be circumstances that require us to split up age groups. We are committed to giving your child the best possible experience and will make every accommodation when possible. Requests need to be made in advance during the registration process and must be age appropriate. Please note that we cannot make group changes after camp has begun.

Yes! One-to-one aides are allowed to attend. Before registering for camp, please contact the zoo camp director if you are providing your own aide. If you are interested in the ARC of Onondaga’s free one-to-one aide service, please contact Sarah Clark at
[email protected] for arrangement of care. Please note, to qualify for this service, you will need to be registered and have recommendations from OPWDD. ARC of Onondaga has limited number of aides available, so it is not guaranteed that an aide will be provided.

You will have the opportunity to be added to the wait list during the registration process. If space becomes available during the waiting period, we will notify all parties on the wait list in the order received. You can opt to be removed from a wait list at any time.

Before and After Care may include games or quiet reading and is not part of the normal zoo curriculum. Before Care runs 8 - 9 a.m. and After Care runs 4–5 p.m. You may register your camper for one or both sessions. Cost is $50 per week per camper for either session. Before and After Care is not offered per diem; you must register and pay for the full week. Pre-registration is required - no drop-ins. If you are late picking up your camper from the regular camp day or Before and After Care, late fees will apply.


Summer Zoo Camp Schedule

Ages 4-11

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon

Our youngest campers can join us for half a day to learn the stories of all the different animals we have here at the zoo! Each stop on our safari is packed with sights and sounds that will spark curiosity and wonder. 

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11.
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Are you ready to discover all the different mediums of art, as well as how our animals use art as enrichment
In this camp you’ll create your own wild masterpieces inspired by the animals around you and understand how art can raise awareness for endangered species and habitats. By the end of the week, we’ll showcase our artwork in a celebration of creativity and conservation, working together to protect the animals and environments that inspired us!
 

*Please note due to the 4th of July holiday, there is no class on Friday.

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Get ready to explore the real-life "superpowers" that make animals
truly amazing! From hunting and hiding to protecting themselves, we’ll uncover how these incredible creatures use their unique abilities to survive. Along the way, you’ll discover your own superpower and learn how we can help these powerful animals continue to thrive in the wild!
 

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11 
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon 
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We want you to join us on our mission to protect the planet!  Get ready to make a real impact as you dive into the exciting world of conservationAt this camp you'll learn about endangered species, the importance of ecosystems, and how we can work together to preserve our planet. 

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11 
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon 
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where can you find a fennec fox? Which animals live in your backyard, and you didn’t even know it? Join us on a wildlife adventure as we learn about animals from around the world and become conservation champions for the future! 

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11 
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon 
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Did you know that animals leave us cluesStep into the shoes of a wildlife agent as you investigate the behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts behind your favorite animals. Get ready to embark on a thrilling mission to safeguard the animal kingdom and make a difference in the wild world around us!  

*Please note due to the Brew at the Zoo, there is no class on Friday, August 1

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11 
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon 
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a keeper or how a veterinarian cares for zoo animals? In this camp, you’ll explore everything that it takes to run a zoo. From animal care to public education, you’ll discover the essential roles that help protect and preserve the animal kingdom. Get ready to unlock the secrets of the zoo and become a true Zoo Mastermind!” 

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11 
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon 
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This week we will explore STEAM principles found in natureDid you know that animals can be creativeWe will learn all about why beavers make dams, how animals build their homes, and even how wolves can reshape landscapesIt’s a hands-on adventure where you’ll use the power of engineering to solve challenges and build the ultimate critter creation! 

 

Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11 
Ages 4-5: 9 a.m. to Noon 
Ages 6-11: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dive into the messy, mucky, and downright gross side of the animal kingdom. From animal habitats to feeding habits, we’ll uncover the yucky secrets that help animals survive and thrive. Learn about the strange and squishy aspects of animal care and discover what it takes to keep these fascinating creatures healthy and happy. It’s going to be a slimy, stinky, and absolutely unforgettable experience! 

 

Ages 12-17 (Jr. Zookeepers)

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a zookeeper? Campers will spend their week in the contact barn getting their hands dirty through general animal husbandry, trying out their training and enrichment skills, and interacting with the public, just like keepers do! This camp involves work experience, and campers should expect to get dirty, hot, sweaty, and smelly as they face the challenges of being a zookeeper. Campers must have a negative TB test within one year of the start of the session.

This camp begins at 8 a.m. and is offered the following weeks:

August 4-8

August 11-15

Campers will expand on their skills gained in Junior Zookeeper and have the opportunity to explore different elements of the zoo. We will be deep diving into incredible animal and environmental concepts, STEAM projects, and experiences with our most beloved animals. By the end of the week, campers will give a “keeper chat” on an animal of their choosing. Campers must have a negative TB test within one year of the start of the session.

This camp runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

And is offered the weeks of:

August 18-22

August 25-29

*This program is by application or invitation only. Invitation extended to participants in prior Jr. Zookeeper program at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Application open to individuals with, but not limited to, prior internship, shadowing, or animal handling experience at another zoo, aquarium, farm, or participation in other programs such as the 4H Club. High school students with relative interest and no prior experience will also be considered. Subject to review and approval by camp director.


Summer Zoo Camp FAQs

Your child will participate in fun, hands-on learning that explores every aspect of our zoo. We provide every child with a camp T-shirt. Each camper is required to wear the camp T-shirt daily to identify them as a zoo camper to the public and zoo staff. If you would like to purchase additional T-shirts, please order online during the registration process.

All staff members have experience working with children. Camp staff pass a criminal background check and receive extensive training before camp starts. The camp director and other zoo staff are trained in CPR and first aid.

Please contact the camp director at [email protected] prior to registration to discuss your child’s needs.

We have a variety of outreach animals that your child may encounter such as snakes, insects and small mammals, and older campers may have the opportunity to go behind the scenes with keepers. For the safety of your children and our animals, contact with most animals is prohibited.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo will follow all protocols as mandated by the Onondaga County Health Department and indicated in the Reopening New York: Child Care and Day Camp Programs Guidelines.

Zoo camp is about making new friends and memories, and parents at camp can inhibit a child’s experience. Additionally, room capacities limit the number of people that can be in each room. Therefore, we ask that parents refrain from staying with children during camp.

Zoo Camp instructors are prohibited by law from administering any medication to children at Zoo Camp except for Epi-pens in an emergency; however, the camp health director can assist in self-administration. All medication and Epi-Pens must be received in the original container and be accompanied by written authorization by their doctor. Camp staff can assist with the application of sunscreen and insect repellant with written permission.

Yes. We require that all children be potty trained to attend camp.

For your child’s safety, we require that every person picking your child up from Zoo Camp be registered with our instructors. Before your child can leave zoo grounds, the designated person picking him/her up must provide a photo ID and check out your child.

If your child is enrolled and you must cancel for any reason, your registration fee is non-refundable unless a child on the waiting list can fill your space. In the event the cancelled space is filled, a $25 processing fee will be deducted from your refund.

Catering at the Zoo will offer a weekly meal plan that can be purchased during registration or added later. Please note that last-minute and day-of requests may not be honored based on availability.

Meal Plan Pricing:

5 Day Weekly Meal Plan: $55
4 Day Weekly Meal Plan: $44

Camp Menu:

Mondays  

  • Turkey Sandwich (with mayo and lettuce on white bread) 
  • Potato Chips  
  • An Apple  
  • Chocolate Milk  
  • Animal Crackers  

Tuesdays  

  • Mac & Cheese  
  • Goldfish  
  • An Apple  
  • Fruit Punch  
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie  

Wednesdays  

  • Chicken Tenders  
  • Potato Chips  
  • An Apple  
  • White Milk  
  • Animal Crackers  

Thursdays  

  • Hot Dog  
  • Goldfish  
  • An Apple  
  • Apple Juice  
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie 

Fridays 

  • Kid’s Cheese Pizza  
  • Potato Chips 
  • An Apple  
  • Chocolate Milk  
  • Animal Crackers  

 

Questions?

Please contact the Education Department at (315) 435-8511 x8559 or email [email protected]

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