Camps have a maximum capacity of ten campers. Our goal is to maintain small groups to ensure that all participants are included and encouraged to participate in team-based activities.

In keeping with our policy that all our campers receive adequate care and attention, our camps have a minimum 1:10 leader to camper ratio. For each group of ten campers, there will always be at least one camp leader present. During activities involving animal encounters, at least one additional staff member will be present in addition to the primary camp guide.

In the interest of consistency and structure, camp will be led by at least one primary group leader who will remain with the group throughout the entirety of the day. Primary group leaders will also accompany camp groups to attend animal encounters led by animal care experts, and lectures led by docents or education staff members. Camp leaders and all other staff responsible for delivering these amazing experiences meet ALL the following requirements:

• • Background experience and a proven history of working well with children
  • Age 18 and older
  • Pass a background check and have no criminal record of crimes against animals or children
  • Proficient in upholding safety standards during human/animal encounters
  • Knowledge of animals, conservation, and a wide variety of fun facts to captivate a young audience
  • Last but not least… camp staff MUST be *officially certified* in the art of having fun!

While you can mostly kick back and let us figure that out, we do ask that you set your child up for success by sending your camper with everything on our required packing list, and checking the weather forecast each morning and encouraging your kiddo to come to camp in weather appropriate clothes! We require all campers to wear their designated camp shirts AND shoes that are comfortable to walk, play, dance, and meet animals in!

Camp counselors are unable to assist with toileting, so campers must be able to independently use the bathroom.

We aim to foster an inclusive environment that is fun, educational, and enriching for all children; including those who have a disability or are neurodivergent. For children requiring sufficient additional support beyond the scope of a traditional babysitter, caretakers are welcome to accompany children at no additional charge. For further details and arrangements, please reach out to us directly at education@cougarmountainzoo.org.

Daily camp curriculum includes group activities and team-building exercises that encourage children to form positive peer bonds and a sense of camaraderie during their time at Camp Cougar Mountain. Our goal is to operate as a unified team during our week together, while still encouraging campers to express themselves as the amazing, unique individuals that they are. Our small group sizes and minimum 1:10 leader to camper ratio allow us to pay adequate attention to all campers and make sure that even the shyest campers are encouraged to participate.

Yes! Our daily schedule includes two snack breaks and one lunch break so campers will remain adequately fueled throughout the day.

• Due to the prevalence of food allergies and sensitivities, we require that you provide your child with one nut-free lunch and two nut-free snacks per our required packing list. A refrigerator is available onsite for storing perishable foods. Please refrain from sending food that requires additional preparation or re-heating.

Send your kiddo with a refillable water bottle clearly labeled with their name. All water bottles will be placed in a backpack so camp guides can keep them on hand at all times, so bottles must be labeled and easy for the kids to identify! Please check our packing list for a comprehensive list of required and recommended items that we believe will help keep your camper happy and comfortable during their time with us.

Camp pick up and drop off will take place at the camel statue (a favorite landmark of many of our young guests) right next to the admissions booth. A camp counselor will be there to greet and check in your child for the day. You are welcome to temporarily park curbside while walking your camper to or from the car.

Absolutely! If possible, please give your child’s camp counselor(s) prior notice of any planned late arrivals or early departures. However, we understand that life happens and sometimes, plans change. For last-minute scheduling changes, please report to the admissions booth so our admissions staff can get the location of your child’s camp and have a camp staff member bring your child directly to you.

We offer extended care in the afternoon Monday-Friday, 3:00-5:00 for an additional fee of $250 per week. We are unable to offer pro-rated extended care for those only interested in extended care for a partial week.

While we don’t have a policy against booking multiple sessions, we don’t recommend it due to the likelihood of repeating curriculum.