Camp Info
| Ages: | 3–12 |
| Type: | Day |
| Month: | Spring, Summer |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Setting: | City |
| Adventure: | Nature & Exploration, Animals, Zoo |
[email protected]
Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Santa Barbara Zoo Camp offers seasonal day camps during summer, spring break, and fall breaks, giving kids multiple chances throughout the year to connect with animals and nature. The atmosphere is energetic, curious, and welcoming, with experienced educators guiding campers through meaningful, age-appropriate experiences inside a working zoo.
The program focuses on wildlife education, animal care, habitats, and conservation. Campers explore various areas of the zoo, observe animals up close, and participate in interactive lessons and hands-on activities. Learning happens through exploration, games, creative projects, and real-world observation rather than classroom-style instruction.
What makes Santa Barbara Zoo Camp special is its immersive setting and flexibility across seasons. Whether attending during summer or a shorter school break, campers benefit from the same engaging approach — direct exposure to animals, knowledgeable educators, and a strong focus on curiosity and respect for wildlife. Each seasonal camp is designed to feel complete and rewarding, even within a shorter timeframe.
These camps are best suited for children from preschool through middle school, with groups organized by age. They’re ideal for kids who love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and learn best through hands-on discovery — no matter the season.
| Ages: | 3–12 |
| Type: | Day |
| Month: | Spring, Summer |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Setting: | City |
| Adventure: | Nature & Exploration, Animals, Zoo |
| Dates | Days | Price | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 30 - Apr 3, 2026 | 5 | $350 | |
| Jun 15 - Jun 19, 2026 | 5 | $350 | |
| Jun 22 - Jun 26, 2026 | 5 | $350 | |
| Jun 29 - Jul 3, 2026 | 5 | $350 | |
| Jul 6 - Jul 10, 2026 | 5 | $350 |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
Santa Barbara Zoo Camp operates as a day camp. Campers are expected to bring their own lunch and snacks each day. Designated meal and snack breaks are built into the schedule, giving campers time to rest, refuel, and socialize with their group. The official website does not provide detailed information about food storage, allergy accommodations, or meal supervision, so families should plan meals that are easy to carry and suitable for active outdoor days.
Safety is a top priority at Santa Barbara Zoo Camp. Campers are supervised by trained educators and camp staff throughout the day, including during zoo exploration, activities, and transitions. Groups are organized by age to ensure appropriate supervision and instruction.
The zoo environment follows established safety guidelines, and campers receive clear instructions about behavior around animals and exhibits. Structured schedules, defined meeting areas, and consistent routines help create a secure and predictable experience. While specific staff-to-camper ratios or emergency procedures are not detailed on the official website, the camp operates within a professional zoological and educational setting designed for youth programs.
The Santa Barbara Zoo Camp activities program is built around animal discovery and environmental learning. Campers explore different areas of the zoo, take part in guided lessons, and participate in hands-on activities that deepen their understanding of wildlife. Each day balances learning, movement, and fun.
Educators adapt activities to suit different age groups, keeping younger campers engaged while offering deeper learning opportunities for older kids. Games, creative projects, and observation-based activities keep curiosity high and energy moving. The program encourages campers to think about conservation and their role in protecting animals.
