Time for a WILD Family Adventure!
Have you been dreaming of a unique and exclusive adventure like no other? Grab the whole family and experience the thrill of spending the night overlooking the Savanna in Wild Africa - right here in Battle Creek!
Family Overnight Topics
Each Family Overnight adventure features a unique theme, complete with engaging activities and games tailored to match. Themes are scheduled for specific dates throughout the summer season and are listed below.
Animal Allies
The animal kingdom can be a scary place! Animals can get sick and suffer because of habitat loss, pollution, and illegal wildlife trading. What can you do to help? You can become an animal ally.
Learn about the major threats to animals around the world and how you can help make a difference for the better!
Creatures of the Night
Whooooo is that calling in the dark? Better understand nocturnal animals and their adaptations. We will talk about the difference between animals that are active at different times of the day and what adaptations are.
Learn about diurnal and nocturnal animals and the characteristics that help them survive in the world of day and night.
Life on the Wild Side
Feeling a little wild? Learn how wild animals survive and how we incorporate those elements into the lives of zoo animals.
We will discuss the differences among wild, domestic, and zoo animals, and talk about the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) that oversees how we take care of animals in a zoo!
Zoo Scene Investigators
Looks like things are about to get [put on sunglasses] wild!
Solve animal-related mysteries. Whether you are asking a small question, solving a big problem like poaching, or doing anything in between, you are learning and helping animals all around the world! Do you have what it takes to be Zoo Scene Investigator (ZSI)?
2025 Family Overnight Dates & Themes
Saturday, May 31st - Animal Allies
Friday, June 6th - Creatures of the Night
Saturday, June 28th - Life on the Wild Side
Friday, July 4th - Zoo Scene Investigators
Saturday, July 26th - Animal Allies
Friday, August 1st - Creatures of the Night
Saturday, August 30th - Life on the Wild Side
Friday, September 5th - Zoo Scene Investigators
Where will we sleep?
Don't worry, we won't make you sleep with the lions. Instead, experience waking up with your family to overlook the African Savanna in our Tented Camp!
Each family sleeps together in one of our Tented Camp cabins (large wooden tents with canvases) overlooking the stunning African Savanna habitat
African Painted Dog Tent | Aldabra Tortoise Tent | Bontebok Tent | Cheetah Tent | Giraffe Tent | Lion Tent | Ostrich Tent | Zebra Tent
Important Links & Information
Guest Limits & Supervision Requirements
8 families (up to 8 family members per group) | Ages 6 and older
Parents and guardians must supervise all children during the overnight program.
Registration
Online registration only. Registrations must be received at least 15 business days prior to an available date in order for the program to run. Registrations are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Payment Policy
The Family Overnights cost is $375 for up to 6 family members. Additional family members may be added for $70 each up to 8 family members total.
Release of Liability
In order to ensure the safety of everyone, we require a signed Release of Liability for all participants. If the participant is a minor, a parent or guardian must sign for them. Please note: Any person who does NOT have a signed release of liability turned in by the start of the program will NOT be allowed to attend. No exceptions.
Cancellation Policy
- Binder Park Zoo Overnights run even when raining.
- Full Refunds are given only if Binder Park Zoo must cancel the overnight due to extenuating circumstances.
- If you are unable to attend your scheduled date, you must contact Binder Park Zoo as soon as possible: (269)-441-9030 or overnights@binderparkzoo.org
- Cancellations received at least 30 days prior: will be refunded or transferred to another available date as long as Binder Park Zoo can fill the originally scheduled date. A $25 processing fee will apply.
Cancellations received 0-29 days prior: No transfer. No refund.
If you are unable to attend your scheduled date, you must contact Binder Park Zoo as soon as possible:
Phone: (269) 979-1351 | overnights@binderparkzoo.org
Family Overnights are Generously Sponsored by:
Camp Merchandise
*all camp merchandise is available while supplies last*
T-Shirt Only: $15 Each
*Campers are NOT required to wear the T-shirt at camp
Available T-Shirt Sizes
Youth Small (6/8)
Youth Medium (10/12)
Adult Small
Adult Medium
Adult Large
Gear Package: $35 Each
Includes drawstring pack, T-shirt, collapsible water bottle, select animal plush, & bug repellent wipes.
Questions? Please reach out to the Overnight Programs Coordinator:
269-441-9030 or overnights@binderparkzoo.org