Summer Zoo Camp Topics
Learn How Animals Thrive in 2025!
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 zoo-per hero. At the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics have never been more fun!
Half Day: 9 a.m. - Noon
Full Day: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Available morning half-day sessions for ages 4-5 and full-day sessions for ages 6-11
Storybook Safari (June 23- June 27)
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.
Art Gone Wild (June 30- July 3)
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!
Creature Powers (July 7- July 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!
Junior Conservationists (July 14- July 18)
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 conservation. At this camp you'll learn about endangered species, the importance of ecosystems, and how we can work together to preserve our planet.
Wildlife World Tour (July 21- July 25)
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!
Wildlife Agents (July 28-July 31)
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 clues? Step 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!
Zoo Masterminds (August 4-August 8)
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!”
Critter Creators (August 11- August 15)
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 nature. Did you know that animals can be creative? We will learn all about why beavers make dams, how animals build their homes, and even how wolves can reshape landscapes. It’s a hands-on adventure where you’ll use the power of engineering to solve challenges and build the ultimate critter creation!
Disgusting Discoveries (August 18- August 22)
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!
Jr. Zookeepers (August 4-8 and August 11-15)
Ages 12 and up: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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.
Jr. Zookeepers 2.0 (August 18-22 and August 25-29)
Ages 12 and up: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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 program is by application or invitation only. Invitations are only extended to participants in prior Jr. Zookeeper programming at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Applications are open to individuals with, but not limited to, prior internship, shadowing, or animal handling experience at another zoo, aquarium, and/or 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. Invitations and applications are subject to review and approval by the camp director.
