Lincoln Park Zoo · Conservation Camp camp guide
Lincoln Park Zoo · Conservation Camp
An animal- and nature-focused day camp with zoo exploration, outdoor play and creative learning. This guide focuses on Conservation Camp; the zoo also runs a separate Zoo Crew program for older children.
Age 4+ and rising PreK–5
Earlier-year details below are a planning reference, not confirmed information for the coming summer. Dates, prices and age ranges may change. We’ll update this guide as new information is published. Check the camp’s current details and available places before booking.
Ages & grades
Rising PreK–5; children must be at least four on their first camp day and use the bathroom independently. Groups: PreK, K–1, 2–3 and 4–5.
2026 informationLocation & drop-off
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago. Camp check-in is outside the Judy Keller Education Center on Cannon Drive, below the carousel. Drivers enter the lot from Fullerton; the guide allows 30 minutes of free drop-off/pickup parking.
2026 informationHours & extended care
9am–3pm weekdays. Arrival: 8:45–9:15am; collection: 3–3:15pm. Optional aftercare runs until 5pm.
2026 informationDates & session length
Listed weeks run June 8–August 14, 2026, excluding June 29–July 3. Book up to three different themed weeks.
2026 informationPrice
$647/week nonmember or $560/week member. Aftercare: $150/week; optional lunch: $65/week. Membership conditions apply.
2026 informationWhat kids will do
Campers explore animals and habitats through outdoor play, creative projects and themed investigations. Zoo Crew, for rising grades 6–8, is a separate two-week program with field trips and a late-stay event; this guide’s prices do not cover it.
Year not statedMore practical details
Food & what to pack
Bring a nut-free lunch and snack, or purchase lunch. Pack a water bottle and sunscreen; wear the camp shirt and closed shoes. Public zoo grounds are not guaranteed allergen-free.
2026 informationGoing with a friend
Coordinate the exact grade group before booking. Families select the group during registration; the zoo says it cannot move campers between groups afterward.
2026 informationSupport & pickup
The zoo describes an inclusion specialist who works with families on accommodations. Discuss individual needs in advance. An authorized adult must show photo ID every day at collection.
2026 informationChanging plans
2026 cancellations received by May 18 incurred a 15% fee; later fees were nonrefundable unless the zoo cancelled. Illness or schedule changes did not qualify for refunds or week transfers.
2026 informationSources and last checked
Last checked 2026-09-23.
2026 reference details · 2027 program details not yet verified · 2026 Conservation Camp
Questions to ask the camp
- 2027 calendar, prices, registration opening and availability.
- Any morning care or transportation service; neither is verified in this guide.
- Whether the support available meets your child’s needs.