Spring Critter Camp!

Download registration form here!

Critter Camp is a place where kids connect with animals. Our goal is to provide an opportunity for children to interact and learn about the animals that share our world. An enthusiastic staff of instructors and friendly animals give your child an enriching experience; filled with hands on animal encounters, fun activities and crafts. As they have fun, campers learn respect, compassion and how to provide a lifetime of care for animals.

Sign up for a day or two or the whole week!

Please note:

*Activities are age specific

*Animal interaction is dependant upon animal health on a day-to-day basis

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is Spring Critter Camp?

• April 7th – April 11th PreK-5th grade
• Camp hours: Pre K*: 9:00am-1:00pm (*children must be 4 yrs old)
  Grades K-5th: 9:00am-3:00pm
• Optional Extended Care (excluding Pre K): $12/day
  Earliest drop off 8:00am
  Latest pickup 5:00pm

What is the cost?

• Pre K (must be 4 years old): $35/day or $150/week
• Grades K-5th: $50/day or $215/week

What is the best way to sign up for Critter Camp?

• Registration begins in March
• Applications are processed on a first come, first serve basis.
  The registration form must be filled out completely and legible, and returned to the Education department via fax, mail, or in person. No registration is done by phone.

• Applicants who do not get into the camp of their choice will be contacted by phone or email. No money is processed until your child is registered in a camp.

Where does the program take place?

• Helen Woodward Animal Center is located just 5 miles east of the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Specific driving directions will accompany confirmation of registration along with drop off and pick up procedures.

• We use both indoor classrooms and outdoor learning areas throughout our 12-acre facility.

How is the camp organized?

• Class size is limited to 15 children.
• Each group is led by a specially trained educator and two assistants, providing a 5:1 ratio.
• We place children in groups based on their grade level.

All children will need to bring a sack lunch* as well as a light snack and a bottle of water to camp each day.

 *Lunch may be purchased through our Critter Camp lunch program.