The Best Summer Camp in San Diego
Summer Critter Camp is San Diego’s best animal camp for kids, preschool through 8th grade! Children will experience daily animal interactions that will amaze them as they get up close and personal with a variety of species, including birds, small mammals, reptiles, large mammals, and invertebrates. The summer camp activities are different each day and include animal-themed games, crafts, songs, and more. There’s something for everyone at Summer Critter Camp, and a great time for all!
Critter Camp at Helen Woodward Animal Center is known as one of the most unique and exciting summer experiences in Southern California, Summer Critter Camp gives children the opportunity to learn, play, and connect with animals in ways they never imagined. From daily animal encounters to hands-on activities and themed adventures, it’s no wonder families consider it the best summer camp in San Diego.
- Interactive animal presentations
- Games and team-building activities
- Arts and crafts
- Songs and creative projects
- Educational lessons about wildlife and pet care
- Visits to Helen Woodward Animal Center’s adoption department
Older campers may also have opportunities to visit additional departments throughout the Center, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at how animal welfare organizations operate.
Easy Scheduling for Busy Families
Summer schedules can be unpredictable, which is why Summer Critter Camp offers flexible registration options.
Daily Registration
Families can register for individual camp days, allowing children to attend when it best fits their schedule. Daily registration provides flexibility without requiring a full-week commitment.
Weekly Registration
For families looking to maximize their camp experience, weekly registration offers the best value. Campers enrolled for a full week receive a complimentary camp t-shirt and enjoy a complete themed experience from start to finish.
Exciting Weekly Themes
Each week features a fun and educational theme designed to spark curiosity and inspire young animal lovers.
Amazing Animal Athletes
During these themed weeks, campers discover the incredible abilities animals use to survive and thrive. From speed and agility to teamwork and adaptation, children learn how animals are built to perform in their environments.
Whether marveling at a rabbit’s quickness or a bearded dragon’s balancing skills, campers will gain a new appreciation for the remarkable talents found throughout the animal kingdom.
Bioscience and Beyond
For children who love asking questions and exploring how things work, Bioscience and Beyond offers an exciting blend of nature and innovation.
Campers will discover how animal behaviors, body structures, and adaptations have inspired advances in science, technology, engineering, fashion, and design. It’s the perfect theme for curious minds interested in both animals and innovation.
Opportunities for 7th and 8th Graders
Summer Critter Camp also offers a specialized experience for middle school students through its Critter Careers program.
Available during select weeks throughout the summer, this unique program introduces campers to the many career paths available in the animal welfare and animal care fields.
Participants will:
- Assist animal care teams
- Meet professionals working with animals
- Explore various animal-related careers
- Build leadership and teamwork skills
- Gain valuable hands-on experience
For teens interested in veterinary medicine, animal training, wildlife conservation, shelter operations, or nonprofit work, Critter Careers provides an inspiring glimpse into future possibilities.
Why Families Love Summer Critter Camp
Parents consistently choose Summer Critter Camp because it combines education, enrichment, and fun in a safe and supportive environment. Children leave camp with new friendships, lasting memories, and a deeper understanding of the animals that share our world.
Whether your child dreams of becoming a veterinarian, loves caring for pets, or simply enjoys spending time with animals, Summer Critter Camp offers an experience they will remember long after summer ends.
Register for the Best Summer Camp in San Diego
Spaces fill quickly each year, and it’s easy to see why. With daily animal encounters, engaging educational activities, flexible scheduling options, and unforgettable themed adventures, Summer Critter Camp continues to be a favorite summer tradition for families throughout San Diego.
Give your child a summer filled with learning, laughter, and incredible animal experiences at Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Summer Critter Camp.
