The Potter Park Zoo Society offers you a choice of two overnight zoo experiences where adults and kids get to spend a memorable night at the zoo. You can either camp out beneath the stars surrounded by animal exhibits, or enjoy the indoor comforts of our new education center.
Option 1: Sundown Safaris
With a minimum of 18 guests (maximum of 60
guests), you can use our campground and get the following package:
1) An evening tour with one of our wildlife educators 2) A special educational activity with one of our animals 3) An evening snack by the campfire, and continental breakfast in the morning 4) On-site counselors 5) Restroom facilities available 6) Parking and admission to the zoo included with the fee
Fee: $25 per person
What Do I Need to Bring?
Each camper will need to bring their own sleeping gear, including tent, sleeping bag, pillows, toiletries, bug spray, flashlight, rain gear, etc. (no trailer campers or motor homes, please)
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times (it is not recommended that children under four years of age attend the camp)
All campers meet at the zoo at 6:30PM (make sure you eat dinner before you come)
In case of severe weather (rain is not considered severe), campers will be moved indoors.
How Do I Make a Reservation for 2009?
Pre-scheduled Family Night Sundown Safaris (Family
Nights do not have a minimum) are available for the following days: Saturday to Sunday,
June 20-21 and August 15-16. You can schedule one of
these safaris by calling (517) 342-2713.
You may schedule group safaris on any other weekend (from May through early October) that does not fall on a Family Night weekend. For this option, please email
us, or call (517) 342-2713 to learn more.
Option 2: Super Sleepovers
(September through mid-May only)
Super Sleepovers are similar to Sundown Safaris, except that you will spend the night inside our education building and you can schedule any evening you wish. As with Sundown Safaris, there is an
18 person minimum for all Super Sleepovers. Since you won't be camping out, you won't need a tent, but please bring sleeping bags, pillows, toiletries, and other overnight necessities. Included with the Super Sleepovers are the following:
1) An education program featuring some of our live animals 2) For your evening snack, you will enjoy our special "Rainforest Sundae Bar" where you can assemble delicious sundaes using natural ingredients from the rainforests of South and Central America 3) Continental Breakfast 4) On-site counselors 5) Convenient restroom facilities 6) Zoo admission and parking included
Fee: $25 per person
Super Sleepovers can be scheduled from September through mid-May. To schedule a Super Sleepover and make payment arrangements, please email
us or call (517) 342-2713.