Hutchinson Zoo Launches Fall Day Camps, Expands Educational Programming

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Zoo is extending its educational mission into the fall season with themed day camps designed to provide hands-on wildlife learning experiences for children as summer activities wind down.

The zoo's 2025 fall day camp schedule includes three specialized programs: Weird Wildlife on Oct. 10-11, Fierce Instincts on Nov. 7, and Chilly Critters on Dec. 5. The camps are designed for children in grades 1-5 and run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with sessions priced at $30 each.

"Summer is almost over but the adventure never stops," the zoo announced on its Facebook page. "Dive into our themed fall day camps and let your child experience wildlife up close. Rain or shine, we're here to learn and explore."

The fall programming represents part of the zoo's broader educational initiative to provide year-round learning opportunities beyond traditional summer camps. Located at 6 Emerson Loop East in Carey Park, the facility serves as both a recreational destination and educational resource for the Hutchinson community.

The zoo, which maintains a 72% recommendation rating based on 358 reviews, offers various educational programming throughout the year. The facility's approach emphasizes experiential learning, allowing children to engage directly with wildlife education in an interactive environment.

Zoo officials are promoting a special offer for the October programs, providing both fall camp days for $55. Parents can secure spots through online booking, with reservations and in-store shopping available through the zoo's website at hutchinsonzoo.org.

The educational programming reflects growing interest in nature-based learning experiences for children, particularly as schools and parents seek supplemental educational activities that combine recreation with academic enrichment.

The Hutchinson Zoo can be reached at (620) 694-2672 or hutchinsonfriendsofthezoo@gmail.com for more information about fall programming and other educational offerings.

For families interested in the fall day camps, the zoo recommends early registration due to limited capacity for hands-on programming with the animals.