Top Kids zoo camps and zoology programs for 2026/2027

Activities at these camps will focus on integrating knowledge of animals into children’s lives. They may go hiking and learn to identify native animals’ activities and tracks, orienteering may be an activity, and nighttime education at an overnight zoology camp may focus on identifying nocturnal creatures. Campers may also learn about endangered species and other more global issues related to animals. Of course, camps may also include related and typical camp activities like outdoor living skills, arts and crafts, tree climbing, sports and campfires.

Zoology camps near you

Animal camps are found in many of Canada’s most populous cities. Find your city below, and find camps that teach zoology near you:

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The variety of zoology camp experiences

Kids who love to learn animals can do so at a variety of camp and program types. Check out different kinds of experiences linked to below:

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A closer look at the variety of ways to experience animals at camps

Zoology camps may in fact be as diverse as the animal kingdom which they study. Among camps in this category, themes can vary widely, even in sessions put on by the same camp. Here’s a brief look at the spectrum of learning from which to choose, along with other camps that appeal to young animal lovers:

More than just fun with animals

There are a number of noteworthy benefits of attending zoo camp. Kids develop skills through these experiences that carry over to future careers, and there are other benefits to personal development, and the improvement of soft skills. Here’s a look at what you’ll develop at zoo camp:

• Scientific understanding. At these camps, kids will certainly encounter learning in biology and other sciences. This will build on things they learn in school. What’s more, zoo camp gives them practical experience in these sciences, unlikely to be available in any other forum. If you're interested in this, explore kids' science camps.  
• Encourage enthusiasm for nature and the development of eco-awareness. Kids benefit immensely from time in the natural world. They also develop their understanding of issues like extinction, with related concerns like climate change and the ecology. Some camps feature baby animals, for example, or kids view animals at different stages of development, and observe both personal care and healthcare of animals. Their understanding of the natural world is deepened considerably. 
• Leadership and courage. Zoo camp is a distinctly bold venture among the many camp choices there are for kids. The development of courage is one of the many benefits kids derive from any camp experience.  
• Related skills and interest development. You never know where camp is going to take you, when you explore all the options and sessions available. For example, we list zoological camps that offer sessions and learning in wilderness survival. The variety of sessions at some camps focus on many different personally enriching subjects.  

Career trajectories in this area: 

• Veterinary science is a popular possibility for kids who experience zoo camp. It’s also very lucrative, with veterinary salaries starting as high as $80,000 per year. Median salary in this field is about $90,000. In both the US and Canada, this field is expected to grow significantly, with an 18% projected job growth in the US. Related fields of interest include agricultural science.  
• Zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals and wildlife in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from African savannahs to underwater study performed by marine biologists. This is a fascinating field with a reasonably lucrative median pay in the range of $60,000. 
• Animal biology is university programming that leads to a diversity of career tracks, including (but not limited to) animal health technician, enforcement officer, and pet nutrition consultant. 

Budding zoologists can also steer themselves in the direction of high school or postsecondary teaching, conservation science and a variety of other fascinating and rewarding careers.

Sources and further research

• Veterinarians. US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Veterinarian Careers at canadianveterinarians.net
• Veterinarian careers from the globeandmail.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Kids zoo camps and zoology programs are there?
There are 19 programs offering zoology as an activity. Use the filters to narrow by age and program type, then click on matched programs to see daily activities, dates, rates and registration information.

What are the fees to attend Kids zoo camps and zoology programs?
Fees for programs offering zoology as an activity range from $40 to $7,710 per program (program types and lengths vary). Use the filters here to narrow programs by age and type.

Where can parents meet with Kids zoo camps and zoology programs?
Meet with program directors and staff at the Our Kids Camp & Program Expo. The Expo is held annually in February, and is a fun and informative day for parents, kids, and teens. Find event details and free tickets here.