Frequently Asked Questions about Racine Zoo Summer Camp

When and how can I register?

You can register at any time. To register you must complete the registration form and pay a non-refundable $20 registration fee. Questions about registration and requests for additional forms can be directed to the Racine Zoo Conservation Education Department at 262-636-9580 or education@racinezoo.org.

Can I get on a waiting list?

If the camp of your choice is sold out, please call the Conservation Education Department at 262-636-9580 to register for the waiting list; there is no guarantee a space will become available. 

What are the hours of camp?

Camp is from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

Is there supervised additional care?

Yes, the Racine Zoo offers before care (7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.) and after care (3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) for an additional fee. You need to be pre-registered for this care. Please note this is not an extension of the camp, however games and puzzles are provided. For additional information please see sign-in/sign-out procedures.

Can I stay with my child?

The Racine Zoo Summer Camp series is a program designed for children who can remain in a group setting without parental involvement. If you feel your child cannot be without you for long periods of time, consider waiting and enrolling him/her next summer.

May I enroll my child in a camp for an older age group?

All camp sessions contain age-appropriate material and 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.

What does a typical camp day include?

A typical camp day includes:

• Classroom lessons with pictures and artifacts (bones, pelts, feathers, etc.)
• Morning snacks (provided with camp fee)
• Zoo tours
• Arts and crafts project
• Lunch time outside (weather permitting; sack lunch provided by camper)
• Quiet time with an educational video
• Games and activities that reinforce the concepts being taught that day
• Animal encounter - children will get an up-close encounter with some of our education animals

**Schedules vary depending on age group and animal theme

How are campers supervised?

Campers are supervised by camp counselors and camp assistants at all times and are escorted on restroom and drinking fountain breaks.

What if I cannot afford camp for my child?

Pending available funding, limited camperships (camp scholarships) may be available for weekly camps. Please contact the Conservation Education Department at 262-636-9580 for more information and how to apply.

My child needs to take medication. How should I arrange for this?

The Racine Zoo cannot administer any medication to children. Please consult a pediatrician so medication can be administered outside camp. To ensure a positive experience for all campers, it is IMPERATIVEthat you notify us of special needs or medical conditions your child may have.  We will accommodate these needs to the best of our ability. If your child must carry medications with him/her, please click here to fill out the necessary form.

Do you provide snacks?

Yes. Snack items may include sandwich crackers, animal crackers, and juice boxes.  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.

Does my child need to bring a lunch?

Campers are required to bring their own daily sack lunch. We encourage reusable lunch bags with their name clearly labeled. Due to safety concerns, glass containers are prohibited. All lunches will be refrigerated by 9:30 a.m., however no microwaves are available. Campers are encouraged to bring their own water bottle with their name clearly labeled to use throughout the day.

What are the camp sign-in and sign-out procedures?

Sign-in and sign-out will take place at the Racine Zoo Augusta Street gate. In order to provide a secure environment, you MUST sign your child in and out of camp. Photo IDs are required for sign-out and will be checked daily. If someone else will be picking up your child, they must be on the authorized list on the Registration Form; they will also be required to show photo ID. If there are emergencies/last-minute changes please notify our camp counselors.

For those not participating in before and/or after care
The Augusta Street gate will be unlocked at 8:50 a.m. and locked again at 9:10 a.m. If you are late, you will need to enter through the Main Entrance and ask Zoo personnel where your child should go to meet up with his/her camp group.
The Augusta Street gate will be unlocked at 3:00 p.m. to pick your child up. Please be prompt when picking up your child; he/she will not be allowed to remain in the Zoo without an adult. 

Additional fees apply to those who are not registered for before and after care and are early being dropped off or late being picked up. 

For those participating in before and/or after care

Before camp care (7:30-9:00) and after care (3:00-5:00) is available at an additional charge. The Augusta Street gate will be unlocked at 7:30 a.m. and locked at 9:10 a.m. After camp the Augusta Street gate will be unlocked from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

What if there is inclement weather?

If there is bad weather, check in/out will be in the Chumba Cha Chai building, near the restrooms at the Charles and Jennifer Johnson Land of the Giants. There will be a sign on the Augusta Street gate directing you. Please let other approved individuals know this in case they are dropping off or picking up your child.

Racine Zoo Summer Camp will take place rain or shine. Activities and projects may be altered to address the weather. Please dress your children accordingly.