Dive into a summer of adventure at Critter Camp at Helen Woodard Animal Center, where kids connect with nature and unleash their inner animal enthusiasts! Voted San Diego’s top animal camp for kids in Preschool-8th grade, our camp promises an unforgettable experience filled with up-close animal encounters, creative crafts, and exciting games that spark curiosity and fun!
Summer Critter Camp Experience:
- Hands-On Animal Fun – Meet and interact with fascinating creatures up close.
- Summertime Crafts & Activities – Creative crafts and playful games inspired by the season with a focus on animal and compassion themes
- Flexible Options — Join for one day or the entire week (weekly registrations get a camp shirt and the 5th day FREE!)
- Themes and Learning – Engage in alternating weekly themes that educate and entertain, creating moments to cherish forever!
Also coming soon during summer; Experience our new Humane education Campus, with state of the art habitat themed classrooms, animal themed playgrounds, new animal ambassadors and much more!
– Military discounts, early bird discounts, sibling discounts, extended Care, lunch options, and scholarships available
https://animalcenter.org/programs-services/education/critter-camp/
Questions? Contact us at (858) 756-4117 x318 or Education@animalcenter.org
9:15 – 9:30 : Intro, Rules, Ice Breaker
9:30 – 9:50 : First Animal Encounter
9:50 – 10:10 : Second Animal Encounter
10:10 – 10:50 : First Activity / Craft / Game
10:50 – 11:10 : Snack Time & Break
11:10 – 11:30 : Snack / Free Play
11:30 – 11:50 : Third Animal Encounter
11:50 – 12:10 : Forth Animal Encounter
12:10 – 12:40 : Lunch
12:40 – 1:00 : Free Play
1:00 – 1:40 : Main Craft
1:40 – 2:20 : Second Activity / Craft / Game
2:20 – 2:40 : Fifth Animal Encounter
2:40 – 2:45 : Story Time
You Can Be a Veterinarian Camp – 1 Full Day($166) & Half Day ($91)
Dates: 4/26, 5/17, 9/27, 10/4, 11/1
Calling all animal lovers! Experience a one-of-a-kind opportunity in San Diego to step into the shoes of a veterinarian. This hands-on camp is designed for kids ages 9-16, offering an unforgettable experience to build real veterinary skills while connecting with animals and exploring the tools of the trade.
Zookeeper Camp – 1 Full Day($211)
Dates:5/18, 9/28, 11/2
Step into the exciting world of animal care with hands-on activities that bring zookeeping to life! This hands-on camp is designed for kids ages 9-16 who are passionate about animals and want to experience life as a zookeeper. Campers will connect with animals and explore the tools of the trade while discovering what it takes to care for them every day.
Fall Critter Camp – Daily($101), Weekly($404)
Dates:10/20 – 10/24 (9:00am – 3:00PM)
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it’s time for Fall Critter Camp! For one exciting week, campers will embark on daily adventures with our amazing animal ambassadors. Each day features a unique theme filled with hands-on animal interactions, creative crafts, fun games, and lessons on how we can make a positive impact for animals. Let curiosity and compassion lead the way this fall—join us for a season of discovery and heartwarming fun!
Thanksgiving Critter Camp – Daily($101), Weekly($404)
Dates:11/24 – 10/26 (9:00am – 3:00PM)
Celebrate Thanksgiving with amazing animal fun! Join us for a heartwarming adventure filled with animal interactions, crafts, and games. Learn how animals enrich our lives and how we can give back. Don’t miss this special opportunity to create lifelong memories!
Winter Critter Camp – Daily($101), Weekly($404)
Dates:12/15 – 1/2/26 (9:00am – 3:00PM)
Get ready for a winter wonderland of animal fun! Join us for hands-on animal encounters, creative crafts, and exciting games as we discover how animals adapt to the chilly season. Don’t miss this unique chance for winter memories that warm the heart!