Education
Learning at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens goes well beyond the visit. Discover programs, camps, and resources designed to inspire the next generation of wildlife advocates and enthusiasts.
Learning at the Zoo
We believe that education is the key to conservation. When people, especially young people, understand the natural world and the animals that share it, they become more invested in protecting it.
The Zoo offers hands-on learning for a variety of ages and every level of curiosity. From Little Learners for children ages 3–5, to week-long summer camps built around conservation, animal science, and hands-on art and nature activities, there’s a program for every family. For schools, SFUSD field trips are free from September through May, and our team provides educator guides, exhibit exploration activities, and grade-specific lesson plans aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
Education programs
Our programs also reflect a deep commitment to accessibility. Bilingual camps in Spanish, Cantonese, and English, scholarships for families with demonstrated financial need, and a Neurodiversity Program ensure that the Zoo’s educational mission is available to every member of our community.
Thanksgiving Zoo camp
Join us for our Zoo Camp Thanksgiving week (Monday-Wednesday) for a fun Fall Adventures camp, with a focus on conservation, animal activism and hands-on art and science.
Resources
From early childhood programs to school field trips and educator resources, here’s a closer look at everything the Zoo offers for learners of all ages.
Ready to learn? Explore our programs and register today.
Bring what you learn into a day at the Zoo with camps, programs, and planning tools that help you make the most of your time here.
