FAQ
Where do we sleep for Rising Waters?
The Sleeping area for Rising Waters is the Rising Waters Safari Camp in tents that sleep up to 8 people (4 bunk beds per tent). For the adult overnight, you reserve the entire tent for your group whether it is 1 or 8 people. For groups over 4 please call our office at 216-635-3391.
What time do the overnight programs run?
Overnights begin promptly at 7 p.m. and end the following morning at 10:00 a.m. Due to safety and security reasons we cannot accommodate any participant needing to arrive or leave between the hours of 7:30 p.m. and 7:30 a.m.
What's the minimum age for participation?
You must be 21 to participate in the adult overnight.
What do I bring with me?
Sleeping bags and pillows are necessary, as you will be sleeping on the floor or bunk beds (Rising Waters only). Camping mats are provided. Please be sure to pack appropriate clothing for the predicted weather (sleepwear, change of clothes, towel, wash cloth, toiletries, outdoor garments, and comfortable shoes). The program runs rain or shine.
Do I need to have a waiver/emergency treatment release form?
Waiver/emergency treatment release forms must be filled out and signed on both sides. ALL participants, are required to have his/her own form.
Why do I need to submit the waivers/roster before the night of my program?
We need to see that all the forms are completed and signed as directed by Cleveland Metroparks Legal Department. We need to know of any special dietary/medical accommodations or medical equipment usage.
Can the group visit the Zoo after their program?
Participants are welcome to stay in The RainForest and/or Zoo immediately following their program. Each participant will be given a wristband that is valid for that day only if they are remaining in the Zoo.
If we are staying in the Zoo after the program, what do we do with our gear?
One of the first morning activities is to gather your gear and load it into one of the Zoo vans to be transported to the parking lot, where you will load it into your vehicles. If you will not have vehicles available first thing in the morning, please call the registration office at 216-635-3391.
Where do I park/go to begin the program?
Parking is in the Zoo's Lion lot, which is across the road from the Zoo entrance. To begin the program you will carry your gear to the entrance of the Reinberger Education Center, which is up the sidewalk to the left of the main Zoo entrance. Rising Waters Participants will wait in the parking lot for the van to pick up their gear.
What happens if my program is cancelled due to low enrollment?
You will be notified 3 weeks ahead of time if your program is in danger of not running, and you may either choose an alternative date or you will be given a refund.
Do you still run the program if the weather is bad?
Our programs run in all weather conditions. We will make adjustments to the program depending on the weather to make sure that everyone is safe. In cases of severe weather emergencies (as determined by local authorities), the group leader will be contacted within 24 hours of the program start.
Can I bring my own food?
You may only bring in food for medical or special dietary reasons.
Can I bring a birthday cake?
We do allow birthday cakes. Since you might be doing the program with others, we ask that you bring enough for all participants of the program.