The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers a variety of summer camp options for children and teens, providing them with unique opportunities to learn about wildlife, conservation, and the natural world. From classic camp experiences to immersive nature-based programs, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Summer Camp caters to a wide range of interests and age groups.
Classic Camps: Hands-on Animal Encounters
The Classic Camps at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are designed for children from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade. These camps offer a well-rounded experience, allowing campers to engage in close-up animal encounters, outdoor exploration, keeper interactions, animal treat making, and creative craft design. Through these activities, children can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the animals and their habitats.
Camp WILDER: Immersive Nature Exploration
For 4th to 6th graders, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers Camp WILDER, an immersive nature-based experience. Campers in this program have the exclusive opportunity to explore the Zoo’s 40-acre nature trail, reserved solely for campers and teen program participants. During their time at Camp WILDER, children can meet animals up-close and engage in hands-on learning about the natural world.
Teen Programs: Conservation, Wildlife Biology, and Adventure
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo also caters to high school students, offering a range of summer camp options for teens in 9th to 12th grade. These programs, including Zoo Crew, Junior Zoo Keepers, and Teen Core, provide participants with hands-on experiences in conservation, wildlife biology, outdoor adventure, international travel opportunities, community service, job skills, education, and leadership development.
Zoo Crew (Middle School)
The Zoo Crew program is designed for middle school students, offering a comprehensive experience that combines conservation, wildlife biology, and outdoor adventure. Participants can choose from various roles, such as Camp Counselor in Training, Loft Interpretive Educator, Explorer Guide, or CMZoo Ambassador.
Junior Zoo Keepers and Teen Leaders (High School)
For high school students, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers the Junior Zoo Keepers and Teen Leaders programs. These immersive experiences provide participants with hands-on opportunities in wildlife biology, conservation, and outdoor adventure. Teens can also explore international travel opportunities, community service, and job skills development.
Costs and Scholarships
The cost for the 2024 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Summer Camps ranges from $600.75 to $700.75, depending on the program. These fees include a t-shirt, name tag, reusable beverage cup, daily supervision, program supplies and materials, keeper talks and tours, special afternoon workshops, orientation, end of season party, and more. An additional $25 non-refundable application fee is required for each applicant/application.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is committed to ensuring that price is not a limiting factor for families. A scholarship fund is available for the Summer Teen Program, providing partial scholarships based on a first-come, first-served and need basis.
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Summer Camp offers a diverse range of experiences for children and teens, from classic camp activities to immersive nature-based programs and teen leadership opportunities. Whether your child is interested in hands-on animal encounters, outdoor exploration, or conservation and wildlife biology, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo has something to captivate and inspire them. With scholarships available, the Zoo ensures that these transformative experiences are accessible to all.
References:
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Summer Camps
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Teen Programs
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Teen Leaders
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Zoo Crew Explorers