Zoo Summer Day Camp

Zoo Summer Day Camp at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo creates compelling experiences that connect campers with wildlife and inspire personal responsibility for conserving the natural world. Campers are grouped according to age to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment.

Campers ages 5-14 can spend their summer days at the Zoo participating in fun and educational activities with experienced camp counselors.

Time

• Full Day: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.                                       
• Half Day: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Beginning in Summer 2025, a limited number of half-day registration spaces for campers aged 5–8 will be available. These campers will be grouped together and follow a weekly topic. This will allow us to provide a more universal and inclusive experience for all participants. Thank you for your understanding as we transition to this new model.

Please direct any questions or concerns to the Program Registration Office at 216.635.3391 or email [email protected]

2025 Camp Topics For Each Session

Real-time camp availability can always be viewed by clicking the Register button.

Camp Topics

Age groups are based on the camper's age as of June 3, 2025.

Classification Ages 5-10:

Weeks of June 2-6, June 23-27, and July 21-25

During Classification week, campers will dive into the fascinating world of how animals are grouped based on their unique traits. From mammals to reptiles, birds to amphibians, your young zoologist will discover what makes each group special. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, they’ll uncover what sets each animal group apart. Campers will be separated by age (5-6, 7-8, and 9-10) to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun-filled week of learning and discovery!

Saving Species Ages 5-10:
Weeks of June 9-12, July 7-11, July 28 - August 1

Get ready to become a wildlife conservation hero! During Saving Species week, campers will dive into the critical topic of wildlife conservation. Campers will learn about the IUCN Red List and how animals are classified as threatened, endangered, or extinct, all while discovering the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, they’ll explore how we can help prevent extinction and make a difference for wildlife. This camp will also feature our Future for Wildlife programs and partnerships, inspiring campers to take action and advocate for a better tomorrow! Campers will be separated by age (5-6, 7-8, and 9-10) to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun-filled week of learning and discovery!

Saving Species Ages 11-12:
Weeks of June 9-13, June 23.27, July 14-18, July 28 - August 1

Step into the shoes of a conservationist during Saving Species: Fieldwork and Advocacy week! Designed for older campers, this program dives deeper into the efforts being made to save wildlife. Campers will explore how fieldwork and research help scientists monitor species classified as threatened, endangered, or extinct on the IUCN Red List. Through interactive activities, up-close animal encounters, and real-world conservation projects, campers will gain insight into how advocacy and action can make a lasting impact. With a special focus on the six projects featured in our Future for Wildlife program, they’ll leave inspired to be champions for wildlife conservation!

Curious Creatures Ages 5-10:
Weeks of June 16-20, July 14-18, August 4-8

During Curious Creatures week, kids will dive into the fascinating world of the most unique and extraordinary animals on the planet. From unusual adaptations to surprising behaviors, your young zoologist will discover what makes these creatures so curious and special. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, they’ll uncover the amazing secrets behind these one-of-a-kind animals. Campers will be separated by age (5-6, 7-8, and 9-10) to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun-filled week of learning and exploration!

"Zoo" Done It?
Ages 11-12: Weeks of June 2-6, June 16-20, July 7-11, July 21-25, August 4-8
Ages 13-14: Weeks of June 9-13, June 23-27, July 14-18, July 28 - August 1

An anonymous insider has reached out, and against all odds, they’ve picked the Summer Day Camp kids as the detectives for this high-stakes case! During "Zoo" Done It? week, campers ages 11-12 and 13-14 will step into the role of wildlife investigators to solve the mysterious disappearance of an animal before it’s lost to the illegal wildlife trade. Using clues tied to the Zoo’s history and our Future for Wildlife partners, campers will work together to crack the case. With puzzles to solve, evidence to analyze, and a race against time, this thrilling adventure will teach critical thinking, teamwork, and the real-world challenges of preventing illegal wildlife trade. Will your camper save the day? The mystery awaits!

Counselor in Training Ages 13-14:
Weeks of June 16-20, July 7-11, July 21-25

Take your first steps toward becoming a camp counselor! During Counselor in Training week, teens ages 13-14 will develop leadership skills and gain hands-on experience working with younger campers. Through team-building activities, workplace skills development, and a behind-the-scenes look at how zoo camps are run, participants will learn how to lead with confidence, assist in activities, and serve as role models for younger age groups. This camp is perfect for teens who are passionate about animals, enjoy working with kids, and want to build valuable skills for the future—all while having a great time at the Zoo!

Healthy Planet, Healthy You Ages 5-12
Holiday Week June 30 - July 3

Discover how the health of humans, wildlife, and the environment are all connected! During Healthy Planet, Healthy You week, campers ages 5-12 will explore the vital role we play in keeping ourselves and our planet thriving. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, campers will learn how protecting wildlife and caring for the environment also supports human health. From reducing waste to creating habitats, they’ll uncover simple ways to make a big impact for a healthier future for all. Campers will be grouped by age to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun and educational adventure for everyone!      

All prices are for the full week, Monday through Friday, unless otherwise noted:

Full Day Camp (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

• Member: $240
• Non-Member: $265

Half Day Camp (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)

• Member: $168
• Non-Member: $186

Camp Add-Ons

• Before Care (early drop-off begins at 7:30 a.m.): $33
• After Care (late pick-up ends at 6:00 p.m.): $37
• Additional camp t-shirt (one shirt already included per registered camp week): $12

Holiday Week camp runs Monday - Thursday (June 30 - July 3. No camp Friday, July 4)

Full Day Camp (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) during the holiday week

• Member: $191
• Non-Member: $212

Half Day Camp (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) during the holiday week

• Member: $133
• Non-Member: $148

Holiday Week Camp Add-Ons

• Before Care (early drop-off begins at 7:30 a.m.): $27
• After Care (late pick-up ends at 6:00 p.m.): $30
• Additional camp t-shirt (one shirt already included per registered camp week): $12

A limited number of scholarships will be available for 2025 Summer Camp offerings. As a part of our commitment to supporting our local communities, priority will be given to applicants from the city of Cleveland. Scholarships are not reimbursements, cannot be used to refund an original purchase, and do not guarantee a registration into a camp session. CAMP SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 are now closed.  

How big are your T-shirt sizes?

• Youth Small
• Youth Medium 
• Youth Large
• Adult Small
• Adult Medium
• Adult Large
• Adult XL

Do I need to buy Before Care or After Care for each day that I need an early drop-off or late pick-up? 

The purchase of Before Care or After Care provides the use of this extended care option for the full week of camp for one camper. If registering for multiple camp weeks where these add-on options are needed for early drop-off or late pick-up, be sure to include them in the purchase for each camp session and each camper. Parents are able to call 216.635.3391 and add this onto their existing booking after their initial purchase.

After registration, what information will I receive?

Your registration confirmation page will automatically be e-mailed to you. For any additional questions regarding camp policies, please refer to the Parents' Guide found under the Documents section of this webpage.

Who do I contact to discuss special accommodation, special care/medical concerns, or the administration of topical or oral prescription/non-prescription medication for my camper?

Please refer to the Participant Health Records section of the Parents' Guide for details or call the Registration Office (216.635.3391),

I'm on the waitlist, now what? How long do I wait until I hear if my camper will get into camp?

Waiting times will vary. Once waitlists are activated, camp spots only become available when another registered family moves their camper into a different week of camp with availability or withdraws their camp enrollment completely. Families on the waitlist will be notified by email to verify if they are still interested in the open spot and want to proceed with the camp registration process. The Zoo cannot guarantee that openings will become available.

Will my camper have an opportunity to help an animal keeper?

For the safety of all, direct contact with exhibit animals is not possible. Please refer to the Activities section of the Parents’ Guide for additional information.

Can I come into camp with my camper on Monday morning?

2025 camp drop-off and pick-up procedures coming soon.

What is your refund policy?

Program fees and deposits are non-refundable. Participants assume risk of all changes in personal health and affairs. With advanced notice of one week prior to the scheduled program date, the program may be rescheduled for free to a new date pending inventory/availability before the end of the following calendar year with a maximum of one (1) reschedule move. Rescheduling requests will not be honored for “no-shows” and requests submitted with less than a week’s notice, will be reviewed on a case by case basis.

If Cleveland Metroparks Zoo finds it necessary to cancel a program, a refund or internal education program credit will be issued. Registrants will be notified if programs are cancelled. By registering for a program, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this policy.

Can siblings and/or friends be registered in the same group?

Registrations are processed on a first come, first served basis. As groups may fill quickly, the Zoo cannot guarantee that your camper and their same-aged friend will be placed together. When you complete your registration, please indicate your preference when prompted. We will do our best to accommodate you.

Does my camper need to bring a lunch?

Full-day campers are responsible for bringing their own lunch and beverage. Half-day campers do not need to bring a lunch, as they leave camp prior to lunch time. Please refer to the Lunch Guidelines section of the Parents’ Guide for additional information.

Can my camper attend camp for more than one session?

Yes, your camper may attend for multiple sessions; however, each session is treated as a separate order. Please complete separate forms for each session in which you are registering.

What should I do if my camper will be absent? My camper has a doctor’s appointment and needs to leave early. Is this possible?

If your camper will be absent or will need to leave early, please contact the Registration Office at 216.635.3391.

Are there discounts available for registering multiple campers or registering for multiple sessions?

The only discount available is for Cleveland Zoological Society Members. See above Cost section.

Can my camper bring a backpack, additional clothes, water bottle, or camera to camp?

Your camper will be responsible for carrying all items. Please refer to the Do’s and Don’ts section of the Parents’ Guide.

Is it possible for someone else to pick up my camper from camp?

Yes, more information on 2025 camp pick-up policies and procedures is coming soon!

How do you select your camp counselors?

In addition to being the best of the applicant pool, camp counselors are subject to criminal background checks and drug screening. They must be at least 15 years of age and are required to submit three letters of recommendation.