Zoo Camp
Put a wild twist on learning!

Zoo Camp

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Zoo Camp is a MUST-ZOO experience!

From learning about wild animals to careers in conservation, campers at the Indianapolis Zoo have a blast exploring and learning while making new friends! Zoo Camps are offered during school breaks during the year. Camps include outdoor exploration of the Zoo and special behind-the-scenes tours to meet animal ambassadors and members of the Zoo’s animal care team. Zoo Camps also foster curiosity and STEM-based skills such as investigation, collaboration, problem solving, communication and more through fun hands-on activities. 

2024 Spring Break Camp!

Ready for a wild adventure this spring? Join us for our 3 day or 5 day Spring Break Zoo Camp programs and discover what it’s like to be a veterinarian, trainer and more!

  • Dates: March 25-29 & April 1-5 
  • Time: 9am—4pm  
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2024 Spring Break Camp Schedule
  • Camp Wild (Ages 6-9)

    The Zoo is home to a variety of species and caring for them takes a team of people. Campers will discover what it takes to care for such a WILD mix of animals! Through games, activities, zoo walks and behind the scenes tours, campers will explore just how fun science can be when it comes to wildlife and wild places.  

    Dates: March 25-29 or April 1-5
    Prices: $261 members/$290 nonmembers

  • Zoo Vet Camp (Ages 10-14)

    With so many different animals to care for the work of a zoo vet can be remarkably interesting as well as challenging. Campers will go behind the scenes in the Zoo’s vet hospital and learn from our vet staff how we care for animals at a zoo. A variety of hands-on activities will allow campers to see what it is like to be a zoo vet.  

    Dates: (3-day camp) March 25-27 or April 1-3 
    Prices: $257 members/$285 nonmembers 

  • Dolphin Trainer Camp (Ages 10-14)

    This adventure of a lifetime provides the opportunity for young people* to experience what it takes to be a dolphin trainer and get to know the members of our dolphin pod. Participants will learn how we train and care for our dolphins through activities, behind the scenes experiences, dolphin presentations, meeting the trainers, and the ultimate experience of venturing into the water to meet our wonderful dolphins up close and personal.

    *Participants must be at least 4 feet 6 inches (54 inches) tall and 10-14 years of age to participate in this program.  

    Dates: March 28-29 or April 4-5 
    Prices: $347 members/$385 nonmembers 

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2024 Zoo Summer Camp!

3-Day and 5-Day Camps Available 

Ages 5-14 | June 3 – July 26 | 9am-3pm 

 5-Day Camp Price: Member $261 | Non-Member $290 

3-Day Camp Price: Member $184| Non-Member $205 

Registration Launch Dates: 

Members: January 17, 2024 

Non-Members: January 24, 2024 

Registration Now Open for Summer Zoo Camp!

New in 2024!

Before & After Care available for Summer Camp!

Times:

  • Before Care: 7:45-9am
  • After Care: 3-5pm

Cost:

  • 5-Day Camp: $75
  • 3-Day Camp: $45
2024 Summer Camp Schedule
  • June 3-7

    Ages 6-8

    • Wildlife Adventures: How do we learn about animals in the wild? We go on adventures! Campers will learn all about how wildlife scientists discover new information about animals in their natural habitats. From nature safaris to fossil digs, every day contains a new adventure at the Indianapolis Zoo  

    Ages 9-10

    • Grossology: Animals can be delightfully disgusting! Campers will learn how being gross can help animals survive, and how we can use some of these gross adaptations to identify animals. Using a variety of science experiments campers will see firsthand how these adaptations work. 

    Ages 11-12

    • Zoology 101: Have you ever wanted to learn more about animals? Zoology is the scientific study of the animal kingdom! From behavior to habitat and anatomy to classification, campers will journey into the world of animal science while learning about the Zoo’s animals and what makes them each unique. 
  • June 10-12 *Only 3-Day Camps due to Zoobiliation Fundraiser*

    Age 5

    • Colorings and Coverings: Stripes, spots, scales, feathers, fur–even slimy skin! The outside of an animal is truly something to behold. Campers will discover various colorings and coverings that animals have and how they help animals survive and thrive. Through Zoo scavenger hunts and tactile exploration, campers will experience animals in a brand-new way  

    Ages 6-8

    • Wild Senses and Defenses: Survival can rely on some downright wild animal adaptations! From animals that smell with their tongues and taste with their skin to plants that smell like rotting flesh, the natural world is never boring. Through a variety of hands-on activities and special tours campers will learn the many ways that species survive! 

    Ages 9-10

    • Animal Investigators: With about 1,350 animals at the Zoo, there is a lot to discover about animal life from Oceans to Plains and everything in between! Using inquiry, investigation and immersion, campers will study and explore the diverse habitats and animals at the Zoo. 
  • June 17-21

    Ages 6-8

    • Extreme Wildlife: Blue tongues, heat detectors, night vision, thousands of teeth, stinging nettles, a 24-pound heart, deadly poisons and more! Campers will discover some of the wildest adaptations that allow organisms to thrive in the most extreme habitats in the world. With wild exploration, artifact investigation, and visits from wildlife experts, campers will learn what it means to be EXTREME.  

    Ages 9-10

    • Ocean Odyssey: The oceans make up about 70% of the earth’s surface. Campers will explore the world of water and discover why the world’s oceans are often such a mystery. Campers will tour the Zoo’s marine habitats and learn how the Zoo cares for aquatic species at the Zoo. 

    Ages 13-14

    • Wildlife Conservation: From the smallest microbes to the largest whale, every living thing plays an important role in helping our planet thrive. Campers will discover the science of wildlife conservation as they delve into the natural diversity of the world and its inhabitants. Through discovery and teamwork, campers will learn new ways to help protect Earth’s biodiversity. 
  • June 24-28

    Ages 6-8

    • Growing Up Wild: Cubs, calves and joeys—oh my! No matter what they’re called, all animal babies face unique challenges. Through games and activities campers will explore how animals grow and change.   

    Ages 9-10

    • Wildlife Mysteries: The world of wildlife holds many mysteries. But if you know where to look, you might be just the one to solve them! Campers will explore animal artifacts, use clues to solve puzzles and learn about the oddities that make the world of wildlife so mysterious. 

    Ages 11-12

    • Mission S.O.S. Save Our Species!: Conservation, preservation and protection: the species of the world need our help! Campers will see what the Indianapolis Zoo is doing to save Earth’s endangered species and learn exciting ways they can make a difference to wildlife at home and around the world. 
  • July 1-3 *Only 3-Day Camps due to 4th of July*

    Age 5

    • Animal Playtime: Do you like to play? Swinging, swimming, climbing, and hiding are just some of the ways zoo animals spend their time. Campers will observe and learn how the Indianapolis Zoo creates daily fun for our animals.  

    Ages 6-8

    • Wild Senses and Defenses: Survival can rely on some downright wild animal adaptations! From animals that smell with their tongues and taste with their skin to plants that smell like rotting flesh, the natural world is never boring. Through a variety of hands-on activities and special tours campers will learn the many ways that species survive!

    Ages 9-10

    • Animal Investigators: With about 1,350 animals at the Zoo, there is a lot to discover about animal life from Oceans to Plains and everything in between! Using inquiry, investigation and immersion, campers will study and explore the diverse habitats and animals at the Zoo. 
  • July 8-12

    Ages 6-8

    • Wildlife Adventures: How do we learn about animals in the wild? We go on adventures! Campers will learn all about how wildlife scientists discover new information about animals in their natural habitats. From nature safaris to fossil digs, every day contains a new adventure at the Indianapolis Zoo.  

    Ages 9-10

    • Grossology: Animals can be delightfully disgusting! Campers will learn how being gross can help animals survive, and how we can use some of these gross adaptations to identify animals. Using a variety of science experiments campers will see firsthand how these adaptations work.

    Ages 11-12

    • Zoology 101: Have you ever wanted to learn more about animals? Zoology is the scientific study of the animal kingdom! From behavior to habitat and anatomy to classification, campers will journey into the world of animal science while learning about the Zoo’s animals and what makes them each unique.
  • July 15-19

    Ages 6-8

    • Extreme Wildlife: Blue tongues, heat detectors, night vision, thousands of teeth, stinging nettles, a 24-pound heart, deadly poisons and more! Campers will discover some of the wildest adaptations that allow organisms to thrive in the most extreme habitats in the world. With wild exploration, artifact investigation, and visits from wildlife experts, campers will learn what it means to be EXTREME  

    Ages 9-10

    • Ocean Odyssey: The oceans make up about 70% of the earth’s surface. Campers will explore the world of water and discover why the world’s oceans are often such a mystery. Campers will tour the Zoo’s marine habitats and learn how the Zoo cares for aquatic species at the Zoo. 

    Ages 13-14

    • Clever Creatures: Dolphins, apes, crows and...slime molds? From social and emotional intelligence to tool use and problem solving, being clever helps living things survive and thrive in their unique environments. Campers will explore different types of intelligence and discover some remarkable species along the way!
  • July 22-26

    Ages 6-8

    • Growing Up Wild: Cubs, calves and joeys—oh my! No matter what they’re called, all animal babies face unique challenges. Through games and activities campers will explore how animals grow and change.

    Ages 9-10

    • Wildlife Mysteries: The world of wildlife holds many mysteries. But if you know where to look, you might be just the one to solve them! Campers will explore animal artifacts, use clues to solve puzzles and learn about the oddities that make the world of wildlife so mysterious. 

    Ages 11-12

    • Mission S.O.S. Save Our Species!Conservation, preservation and protection: the species of the world need our help! Campers will see what the Indianapolis Zoo is doing to save Earth’s endangered species and learn exciting ways they can make a difference to wildlife at home and around the world. 
Give the Gift of Adventure!

New! Purchase a gift certificate that can be used for any of our Spring and Summer 5-day camps!

Dates:

  • Spring – March 25-29; April 1-5
  • Summer – June 3-7, 17-21, 24-28; July 8-12, 15-19, 22-26

Prices:

  • Zoo Members: $261 per camp session
  • Nonmembers: $290 per camp session

The recipient of your gift certificate will be able to choose the week of camp that aligns with their interests and works with their schedule.

Spring or Summer Camps Available

Zoo Camp Gift Certificate

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Redeem Gift Certificate

Need to redeem your gift certificate? All you have to do is click the button. Make sure to have your gift certificate number handy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zoo Camp
  • Registration Questions

    How do I register? 

    • Registration must be completed online by a parent or guardian. You will need a credit card, list of approved pick up people, camper health information and all contact information on hand before beginning registration.  

    Can gift certificates be applied to camp? 

    • Gift certificates are available for our 5-day camps only. These may be applied to any of our Zoo Camp 5-day camp programs, including spring break and summer sessions. No gift certificates are available for 3-day camps. 

    Is there a wait list? 

    • Yes. More information will be shared closer to the start of camp registration. 

    What if I need to cancel or change a reservation? 

    • Refunds are available up to 45 days prior to the program start date. 
    • If you need to cancel within 45 days of your scheduled camp program, we can offer you a transfer to a similar program during the same session (summer, fall, winter, spring break) if requested at least two weeks prior to the program and if there is room in the camp. 
    • No transfers are allowed within two weeks of the program start date. 
    • Refunds will not be issued for no-shows for any camp program regardless of reason.  
    • To cancel or request a transfer, please contact the Zoo Camp team. 

     What if I want siblings or friends to be in the same group? 

    • Please reach out to us if you have individuals registered for the same age and camp title so we can put them in the same cohort. Please note that we do not enroll campers in programs if they do not meet the age requirement of that camp.   
  • General Questions

    What time does camp start and end? 

    • Camp starts at 9:00am with drop-off beginning at 8:45am. The camp day ends at 3:00pm with pick-up no later than 3:15pm. If you need a longer day, please see our extended care option. 

    Do you offer extended care hours? 

    • We offer extended care from 7:45-9:00am and from 3:00-5:00pm. Extended care costs a flat fee of $75 per week for 5-day camps and $45 per week for 3-day camps.  

    What are the requirements to participate in camp? 

    • To participate in the Indianapolis Zoo Camp, campers must: 
      • Be between the ages of 5-14 
      • Be able to follow simple directions and communicate needs and interests 
      • Be willing to spend the week outside and engage in group activities 
      • Be able to manage self-care tasks, such as eating and using the restroom, without assistance*  
    • *For individuals with extra care needs, please see “How do you accommodate campers with accessibility or special needs?” 

    What will my child do all day at camp? 

    • Each camp group may have different schedules each day. Please note that sometimes the schedules change due to weather or animal availability. Each week of camp can look very different but will always include a few basic elements:  
      • Zoo walks—a guided walk through one or more Zoo exhibit area each day 
      • Educator chats in the Zoo 
      • Lessons on the camp theme (includes animal artifact items and activities)  
      • Indoor and outdoor games centered around the camp’s theme  
      • Hands-on activities based on the camp theme 
    • Additional activities such as animal feeds, behind-the-scenes tours and rides may be included in some camps depending on the topic and age of campers but are not guaranteed. 

    Will there be a lot of walking? 

    • The Indianapolis Zoo is a large space, and there will be a lot of walking. Make sure your child is prepared with comfortable walking shoes that have closed toes and heels as well as socks. 

    Will campers spend a lot of time in the sun? 

    • Campers will spend a significant amount of time outside. Please prepare for this by providing your child with a hat and applying sunscreen before the day begins. Camp Counselors cannot apply sunscreen to your child, but staff will give frequent reminders to campers about sunscreen, hats and drinking water throughout the day. Feel free to send your child to camp with their own sunscreen in their backpack which they can re-apply later. There will be shade and air conditioning breaks throughout the day.  

    Will my child get to interact with any of the Zoo animals? 

    • Campers may have the opportunity to get up close to certain animals in the behind-the-scenes areas. We do occasionally have opportunities for animal interaction with our Ambassador Animals. We do not guarantee that campers will touch animals during their camp experience.  

    What should my child wear? 

    • Campers will be given a camp t-shirt at the start of camp that they will need to wear throughout camp. Additional camp t-shirts can be purchased at registration. Comfortable pants or shorts are recommended as there will be lots of walking and plenty of games throughout the day. For safety, campers must wear closed-toed and closed-heeled shoes (crocs, sandals and clogs are not appropriate footwear for camp). 

    Who do I contact with questions? 

    • If your questions were not answered in our FAQ section, please reach out to our education staff at edustaff@indyzoo.com or (317) 630-2000 with any questions you have! 
  • Health and Safety Questions

    What is the staff/child ratio? 

    • We follow the recommendations put forth by the American Camp Association for staff-to-child ratios. Below are the ratios by age: 
      • For programs for 5-year-olds: 1 counselor to every 6 campers  
      • For programs for 6- to 8-year-olds, 1 counselor to every 8 campers  
      •  For programs for 9- to 12-year-olds: 1 counselor to every 10 campers  

    How do you accommodate campers with accessibility or special needs? 

    • Please contact us as soon as possible at edustaff@indyzoo.com if your child needs any special accommodations. The Zoo team will work with you to formulate a great plan of action for your child. 
    • We strive to make our Zoo camp as inclusive as possible and welcome campers of all abilities. Zoo camp requires campers to be able to spend most of the day outside and walking across the Zoo. Some of our behind-the-scenes spaces do contain stairs. Please note that while the Zoo does not employ specific individuals certified and trained to support special-needs children, we do have experience accommodating campers of differing ability levels.    
    • If your camper needs health, behavioral or bathroom support, they will need to bring an aide with them in order to attend camp. Aide requests must be made no later than 30 days prior to the start of camp and aides will need to undergo a background check. Please reach us to us at edustaff@indyzoo.com. 

    Is my child able to bring their own medication? 

    • If your child has allergies or asthma that require the use of an Epi-pen/inhaler and can administer it themselves, they may have it with them at Zoo Camp. Please note that Zoo Camp staff are not allowed to administer any medicine to campers. Epi-pens and inhalers must be clearly labeled with the child’s name and dosage. The camper must carry it with them throughout the day. Zoo staff will not be able to carry any medications for campers. 
    • If your child has prescription medication that must be taken during camp, a caregiver can come to the Zoo to administer it. Arrangements need to be made with the Zoo Camp team by email prior to the camp session. 
    • Please indicate which camp your child is attending, the nature of the needs, and any other information you feel that we need to create a great camp experience for your child.  
    • Please also let us know if your child has a behavioral treatment plan. 

    How do you accommodate campers with allergies? 

    • To protect campers with nut or shellfish allergies, we will have an allergy-free table for lunch. If your child has a different allergy but you want them to eat at an allergy-free table, please contact the Zoo Camp team.  
    • There are many activities that campers may participate in depending on their age and the camp topic. Some behind-the-scenes areas and animal feeds involve nuts or shellfish. If your camper has either a nut or shellfish/fish allergy, we will not let them participate in these activities without your specific permission, to avoid any possible allergen exposure. 

     Does camp still run in inclement weather? 

    • Zoo Camp will run rain or shine. Our Zoo Camp staff are trained in how to respond in inclement weather (thunderstorms, excessive heat, etc.) 

    How many campers are in each group? 

    • The overall number of campers in each camp varies based on age group and week, but campers will be placed in cohorts of 6-10 campers per counselor. Cohorts may be together for some activities. 
  • Refunds and Rescheduling

    Do you offer refunds?

    • Refunds are available for all Zoo Camp programs minus a $25 administration fee if requested by refund deadline date.  The dates for those refund deadlines for Summer Camp are:
      • Week 1 (June 3) – April 19
      • Week 2 (June 10) – April 26
      • Week 3 (June 17) – May 3
      • Week 4 (June 24) – May 10
      • Week 5 (July 1) – May 17
      • Week 6 (July 8) – May 24
      • Week 7 (July 15) – May 31
      • Week 8 (July 22 – June 7
    • The deadline to receive a refund for Spring Break Zoo Camp is March 11, 2024
    • The deadline to receive a refund for Fall Break Zoo Camp is September 23, 2024

    Can I reschedule?

    • If you need to reschedule your camper to a different week of camp, you have until 2 weeks prior to the start of your registered camp to let us know of the change. Campers can only be rescheduled to camps that have not met capacity limits and if they are the correct age for that camp.