This year, we will be taking celebrating the Year of the Frog!  Amphibians will be our topic, so we will be looking animals that are found in our wild areas and our urban cities! We will also be around when the rest of the Zoo is closed, so we will see who might be awake.  Come learn about all the wonderful frogs and toads around the world and why they are diminishing at an alarming rate!  Let’s work together to protect our own backyards. All campouts take place on select Friday nights, beginning at 5:30 PM. The adventure includes dinner, a guided tour, games, an animal encounter, a flashlight tour and a bedtime snack. In the morning, the excitement continues with continental breakfast and a 9:30 tram ride.       

All campers need to bring their own tents, sleeping bags and flashlights. The campouts are designed for families with children ages 4 and older. The cost is $30 per person for members and $35 per person for nonmembers. There is maximum of $150 per family, however all campers must be from the same household. Space is limited at each of the campouts, so call soon to register. We must have your payment at registration to reserve your place. We can accept credit card payment at the time of your call, or you can come in person to register and pay by cash. No mail in registrations will be accepted. For more information or to register, call the Education Department at 266-8213.  We have added more dates this year, so see which wild night is best for you!  Creature Campout Shirts will be for sale for $10 a piece for those that camp out with us.

May 9, May 23, June 6, Sept 12, Sept 26, Oct 3, Oct 17

Nocturnal Adventures:

Are you looking for an exciting activity for your scout, church, or school group but do not want to mess with camping equipment?  How about spending the night at the zoo!  Groups will meet education staff at 6:00 p.m. in the Cargill Learning Center and participate in an exciting evening of games, tours, and special animal visitors.  Groups will sleep inside, so no tents are needed.  You bring a sack dinner.  A snack and morning juice is provided by the zoo. 

Fees are:

Sleeping in the Cargill Learning Center: $20.00

Sleeping in Downing Gorilla Forest:  $20.00

Sleeping in the North American Prairie Overlook:  $20.00

There is a minimum of 15 participants.    However, for bookings under 30 people, the education department reserves the right to combine groups similar in age and gender.  A deposit of $60.00 is due one week after the date of booking.  To schedule your Nocturnal Adventure, contact the Education Department at 266-8213 a minimum of two-weeks in advance.