School's Out Camp
Looking for a fun activity for your child to do while school is on a break? We would love for you to spend your break days here at Zoo Camp!
Registration is limited!
These in-person programs for 1st-5th grade campers are limited to ensure high-quality programs! Please register early!
Grab your passport and get ready for a wild adventure around the world! Become an animal explorer as we journey across continents to discover incredible animals and the amazing places they call home. From tropical rainforests to snow covered lands, we'll uncover fascinating animal adaptations through hands-on activities, creative projects, and adventures throughout the Minnesota Zoo. There's a whole world of amazing animals waiting to be discovered!
Amazing Animals from Around the World:
Monday to Wednesday December 28-30, 2026
Fee: $240 Members/$255 Non-members
Registration closes at noon the Friday before the camp starts.
What does it take to run a zoo? More than you might think! Explore the many careers at the Minnesota Zoo, from animal care and veterinary medicine to engineering, education, and facilities. Campers will investigate animal health, tackle hands-on STEM challenges, design habitats, and discover the important work happening behind the scenes. Meet Zoo professionals and see how teamwork, science, and creativity come together to care for animals and connect people with wildlife.
The Wild Workforce:
Monday to Wednesday December 28-30, 2026
Fee: $240 Members/$255 Non-members
Registration closes at noon the Friday before the camp starts.
FAQs
Snacks, Lunch (not provided) and Food Allergies
Due to the high prevalence of food allergies, Zoo Camp does not provide snacks for campers. Campers are encouraged to bring their own peanut-free and nut-free snack (2 per day) each day as we will offer two snack times. Please avoid peanut butter, granola bars, or baked goods with peanuts, trail mix, Nutella, or any Nutella-based items. “Soy nut” butter and sunflower seed butter are great alternatives to peanut butter.
We cannot guarantee a nut-free environment at the Zoo as guests often bring their own food items containing nuts, and nuts are a regular part of our animal diets. Nuts may also be used during animal demonstrations in the classrooms as positive reinforcement. Please disclose all participant food allergies during registration.
Campers need to bring a lunch with them daily. Please provide a peanut-free and nut-free lunch. Refrigeration of lunches is not provided. Please consider bringing their lunch and water in reusable containers to avoid excess waste. Campers will NOT be allowed to purchase lunches from the Zoo’s food court.
To discuss concerns or potential accommodations, please contact [email protected].
Health and Medication Policy
Children should only attend camp if they are able to participate in activities with reasonable comfort. If your child is feeling unwell, we encourage to keep your child at home. Please take a moment to review our camp Health Policy.
The Medication Permission Form MUST be completed if your child needs to take any medications during their time at Zoo Camp. No medications should be taken by children without a completed form.
Behavior Policy and Photo and Liability Waivers
These are the policies/waivers that you will see during your online registration.

13000 Zoo Boulevard
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952.431.9200
Subscribe to our Newsletter
About
Your Visit



Copyright 2022, Minnesota Zoo | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy

