Zoo Mini Camp

Zoo Mini Camp

Join us at Turtle Back Zoo for some wild fun!

We offer mini-camps throughout the school year on days that coincide with many of the major school holidays. The camp day runs from 9am-4pm and is available for ages 5 to 10. Campers should bring their own snack and lunch. We do our best to host a tree nut-free environment for our campers. We receive and comply with guidance from our local health agencies regarding COVID-19 and all other health and welfare concerns.


All 2025-2026 Mini Camp Dates

Tuesday-Wednesday, September 23-24, 2025

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Monday, October 13, 2025

Thursday-Friday, November 6-7, 2025

Monday-Wednesday, December 29-31, 2025

Monday, January 19, 2026

Monday-Tuesday, February 16-17, 2026

Monday, March 30 – Thursday, April 2, 2026



Search for your desired date in the top left corner of the page


Cost

Mini camp costs $100/day. You may register for one day or multiple. Extended care is not available during any mini camp session.


The mission of Turtle Back Zoo camp is to foster an appreciation for wildlife and the natural world through fun and educational activities.

To further our mission of conservation, education, and stewardship, campers will be introduced to the extraordinary world of animals, nature, and science.  Children will enjoy age-appropriate camp activities that include games, teacher-led lessons, behind-the-scenes visits, up-close animal encounters, hands-on science demonstrations, and fun crafts.


Additional Information and Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policy: Refunds are guaranteed for cancellation requests made in writing least 3 weeks prior to the start of program. For requests made within 3 weeks of the start of camp, refunds are not guaranteed.

Sign-in Procedures: Campers must be signed-in and -out by an authorized adult each day of camp. Authorized adults must present a physical copy of a government-issued photo ID in order to pick-up campers.

What to Bring: Please ensure that your child has a snack, lunch, refillable water bottle, and is dressed comfortably for the outdoors. We will go outside rain, snow, or shine, as long as it is safe.

Curriculum: Lessons and materials are not provided in advance of camp. An example of the daily schedule is shown below; days vary per age group, animal availability, weather, etc.

1. Check-in
2. Discovery Activity/Game
3. Lesson
4. Snack
5. Zoo Visit
6. Lunch
7. Animal Presentation
8. Lesson
9. Craft/Science Demo
10. Zoo Visit
11. Take-home Activity/ Game


Time

9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Date

Sep 23 2025

Cost

$100.00

Location

Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
MORE INFOMATION

Call us for more information on events, bookings, or zoo visits! To book a group reservation or party, call and ask for Group Sales. Our Group Sales Department phones can be busy at times, so you many need to leave a message. Teachers, please include a preferred callback time if needed, so we can try to connect. Please allow at least 48 hours for a return call before trying again.

Call - (973) 731-5800