8 Wild Overnight Camps for Kids Who Love Animals

Looking for the perfect overnight camp for your animal-loving child or teen? We handpicked some of the best animal camps from across the United States that your aspiring zoologist or future veterinarian will love. From working farms and ranches, to hands-on conservation at the zoo, these are 8 of the best overnight camps for kids who love animals. Want more? Browse all animal-focused camps on Sleepawayz. 🐾🐸

Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp – Rolla, MO

Founded in 1993, Cub Creek Science Camp offers a unique summer camp experience for kids aged 7-17 who are passionate about science, nature, and animals. Located in Rolla, Missouri, this immersive specialty camp lets kids engage with over 300 animals, participate in hands-on science and nature activities, and enjoy adventure programs like ziplining, caving, and archery.

Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp

Rolla, MO

• Coed
• Ages 7-17
• Traditional, Specialty

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Busch Gardens Resident Camp – Tampa Bay, FL

Located at Busch Gardens in Florida, this week-long, all-inclusive specialty camp experience is perfect for thrill-seekers and animal lovers. With over 200 animal species and world class roller coasters, older kids and teens aged 12-17 enjoy a unique blend of close encounters and exciting rides while staying onsite at the Mzinga Lodge.

Camp Wonder at Howell Nature Center – Howell, MI

Howell Nature Center’s Camp Wonder provides an immersive sleepaway experience for kids aged 9-17 to unplug from technology and connect with nature through exciting adventure activities and wildlife encounters. Located on 230 acres in Howell, Michigan, this enriching week-long camp offers a well-rounded traditional camp experience mixed with a strong focus on animals and nature.

Castle Rock Ranch Camp – Kingston, ID

Castle Rock Ranch Camp offers an amazing summer experience for girls aged 9-14 on a working ranch in the mountains of northern Idaho. Campers engage in hands-on animal care, horseback riding, hiking, and farm-to-table activities, all while building lasting friendships and enjoying the great outdoors.

Creation Encounters Teen Camp – Cleveland, GA

Located in Cleveland, Georgia, this three day long Christian camp allows teenagers aged 12-16 to connect with nature and deepen their faith. Through hands-on animal encounters and daily devotion, campers get down and dirty while learning about God’ creation.

North Carolina Zoo’s Wild Animal Science Camps – Asheboro, NC

The North Carolina Zoo’s Wild Animal Science Camps offers young scientists aged 11-18 with immersive conservation research experiences, including night-time zoo explorations and hands-on techniques. Campers have special, supervised access to over 500 acres of wildlands and wildlife living at the Zoo and sleep onsite in tents, surrounded by the sounds of animals and nature.

Swift Nature Camp – Minong, WI

Swift Nature Camp is perfect for animal-loving kids aged 6-15 seeking a traditional camp experience. Located in Northern Wisconsin, this coed camp has its own Nature Center and Zoo which offers hands-on interactions with furry, feathered, and scaled animals. Campers can adopt pets, explore wildlife, catch critters, and learn from forest rangers, nurturing their love for animals and the great outdoors.

WildeCamp at The Wilds – Cumberland, OH

Located in Cumberland, Ohio, WildeCamp at The Wilds is a specialty coed summer camp for kids aged 8-17 that focuses on environmental science, conservation, and animal care. This week-long camp engages campers in hands-on conservation activities, nature tours, and outdoor skills training.