Bronx Zoo Summer Camp FAQs
Camp Experience
What will my camper do all day at camp?
Camp is full of fun and learning about the world of animals, nature, and science. A typical week of camp includes age-appropriate activities including up-close animal encounters, games, hands-on science projects, art-making activities, and songs. We plan to spend the majority of camp outdoors exploring our parks and exhibits, so please be sure your camper is dressed for the weather.
Will you be outside all day?
We plan to spend as little time as possible in our classrooms. Weather permitting, we will spend the majority of our time outdoors exploring our parks and exhibits. Please be sure to apply sunscreen or bug spray each morning before camp. Camp staff will not be permitted to apply sunscreen or bug spray to campers. Also, send your camper to camp with a full, reusable water bottle to ensure your camper stays hydrated.
What is the counselor to camper ratio?
Each camp has one lead educator and two to four camp counselors depending on the age and size of the group.
What should my camper wear to camp?
Please dress your camper appropriately for the weather. We will be outside rain or shine, so rain gear may be needed. Please send your camper with closed-toe shoes. On the first day of camp, we will give your camper a special camp t-shirt and they will be required to wear this shirt every day of camp as it increases visibility. Additional t-shirts can be purchased for $25 when you register or on the first or second day of camp.
What food should I pack for my camper?
Please send your camper to camp each day with a nut-free lunch, snack, and a full, refillable water bottle. For campers attending extended care, please bring an additional snack. Due to allergy concerns, do not send any snacks or food containing peanuts or tree nuts. Sharing of lunch or snack items is not permitted except amongst siblings.
How do you handle behavioral issues?
WCS utilizes restorative practices across all of our camps. It empowers campers to grow socially and emotionally. More information about this approach will be sent out with camp materials.
When will registration open?
Registration for camp will open to the general public February 2024.
Can I register my kids for more than one camp session?
Camps at the same park with the same name and title do not change week to week unless otherwise indicated. We do not recommend campers attending consecutive weeks of the same camp. The Wildlife Conservation Society has camps at four of our parks (Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, New York Aquarium, and Queens Zoo), and registering your camper for different camps at different parks is a great educational experience!
Registration and Payment Questions
Can you accommodate campers with different needs?
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all campers are welcome. In order to best meet the needs of your camper, we welcome you to contact us to discuss any accommodations your camper requires prior to camp. We are more than happy to discuss all available options. Our camp staff is not able to assist campers with toileting or medical needs, but if your camper needs toileting or medical support during our camp day, a care provider may attend camp with them (please reach out to discuss details with staff).
Can my pre-k or k child attend in-person camp?
We are offering a Caregiver and Me toddler camp for two to four year old children. A caretaker must accompany the child to Toddler Camp. All other summer camps are for those entering Kindergarten as a four year old and older.
What does "waitlist" mean?
Waitlist means we are currently full for that session. We encourage you to sign up for the waitlist as spots do open and we will try to fill that spot from our waitlist in the order they are listed.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
All requests to cancel or reschedule must be submitted via email. Please include the camper's name, camp session, date, and the reason for cancellation.
- Cancellations: Our policies are designed to give families maximum flexibility while considering the realities of camp enrollment. We accommodate schedule change requests until June 1, dependent on availability. Cancellations before June 1 will receive a full refund minus a $60 administrative fee. Cancellations after June 1 will not receive a refund. All requests to cancel or reschedule camp must be made in writing to bzeducation@wcs.org
- Rescheduling: Requests to reschedule are subject to availability and will be subject to an administrative fee. All requests to reschedule programs must be made in writing to bzeducation@wcs.org .
- Please see our Terms and Conditions for more information.
Do you offer payment plans?
Please email bzeducation@wcs.org for more information.
Do you have a multi-child discount?
We do not offer a multiple-child discount. We do offer a 10% discount to WCS Members and Donors
Do you provide transportation to camps?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide transportation to and from camps.
Do you provide extended care?
Extended care options are available for caregivers who need extra time for pick up.
What additional information will be required for my camper to participate?
Following registration for camp you will be able to complete all the necessary forms digitally (medical, camper pick-up, and photo-release forms as well as our liability waiver and camper code of conduct). These forms must be completed prior to your child's first day of camp in order to attend.
COVID-19 Related Questions
What are your Covid-19 safety protocols?
Please visit the Bronx Zoo Know Before You Go page to review park policies related to COVID-19.