When can I register?
Registration dates are determined by Zoo membership level.
You may upgrade your membership by visiting our membership page or by calling 713-533-6713.
|
Membership Level
|
Priority Registration Date
|
| Asante Society |
February 13 |
| Conservator ($500) |
February 18 |
| Sustaining ($250) |
February 22 |
| Supporting ($130) |
February 26 |
| Grandparent ($90) |
March 1 |
| Family Plus ($90) |
March 1 |
| Family ($80) |
March 5 |
| Individual ($55) |
March 9 |
| Non-Members |
March 13 |
Can I get on a waiting list?
If the camp of your choice is sold out, please call Group Sales at 713-533-6550 to register for the waiting list; there is no guarantee a space will become available. Once the waiting list is full, no more registrations will be accepted.
Can I stay with my child?
Camp Zoofari is a program designed for children who can remain in a group setting without parental involvement.
May I enroll my child in a camp for an older age group?
No, age requirements are not negotiable and strictly enforced. Campers must fall within the specified age category on the first day of the camp session they are attending.
What should my child wear/bring?
Please click
here for a complete checklist.
You MUST bring a copy of your child’s immunization records with you on the first day of camp in order for your child to participate in Camp Zoofari.What are the qualifications of your teachers and assistants?
Camp teachers are Zoo staff educators, certified teachers, or college interns. All must pass a criminal background check, and all full-time staff members are CPR and First Aid certified. Camp assistants are teen volunteers in our Zoo Crew program.
How are campers supervised?
Campers are supervised at all times and are escorted on restroom breaks.
My child needs to take medication. How should I arrange for this?
The Houston Zoo is NOT responsible for administering medication to children. Please consult a pediatrician so medication can be administered outside camp. To ensure a positive experience for all campers, it is IMPERATIVE that you notify us of special needs or medical conditions your child may have. We will accommodate these needs to the best of our ability.
Do you provide snacks?
Yes. Snack items are Goldfish®, Cheez-Its®, Chex Mix ®, animal crackers and watermelon. We also serve lemonade. If your child has food allergies, please include this information on the registration form. Alternative snacks will not be provided; however you may provide a small snack for your own child if you prefer.
What about lunch?
Winter Camp is a “high energy” activity, so campers should eat a hearty breakfast before arrival. ALL campers must bring a lunch. Campers may NOT purchase Zoo lunches. Due to safety concerns, glass containers are prohibited. A microwave will NOT be available for use.
What are the camp sign-in and sign-out procedures?
Sign-in and sign-out will take place inside the Brown Education Center (BEC). In order to provide a secure environment, you MUST come inside the BEC to sign your child in and out of camp. Photo IDs are required for sign-out and will be checked daily.
You MUST bring a copy of your child’s immunization records with you on the first day of camp in order for your child to participate in Camp Zoofari.
The BEC is located inside Gate 5, which is 200 yards to the left of the main gate. You may park in the main parking lot or the old golf course parking lot across the street. Do NOT use the handicapped parking in front of Gate 5 unless you have a handicapped plate or tag. Unauthorized vehicles may be ticketed ($250 fine). The Houston Zoo is NOT responsible for paying the fine.
Gate 5 will be unlocked at 8:45 a.m. and locked again at 9:15 a.m. If you are late, you will need to enter through the main entrance.
Gate 5 will be open at 3:45 p.m. for pick up. Please be prompt when picking up your child; he or she will not be allowed to remain in the Zoo without an adult. Campers not picked up by 4:15 p.m. will be charged a fee of $1 per minute.
Will my child get to touch zoo animals or go behind the scenes?
We have a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles that are safe for handling. Campers will get to touch many of these throughout the week! For the safety of the campers and our animals, most behind-the-scenes activity is restricted to the oldest age group.
Is there an orientation for parents or campers?
Yes. A brief orientation is scheduled for parents at 9:15 a.m. each Monday morning. We will review basic information about the camp and answer any questions you may have. Campers will attend a separate orientation session together once camp is in session. Campers will have the opportunity to meet other campers and staff, and camp expectations and rules will be reviewed.
What are the hours of camp?
Camp is from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Do you have before and after camp care?
No, before and after camp care are not available.
How big are the t-shirts?
The t-shirts are sized as follows:
Youth S (6/8)
Youth M (10/12)
Youth L (14/16)
Adult S
Adult M
Adult L
If you are unsure of what size to order, please order larger. There are no extras or exchanges available.
How much do extra shirts cost?
Each child will receive two Camp Zoofari t-shirts per week of camp they are registered. Extra t-shirts are available at a cost of $12 per shirt.
