Can parents or non-participating adults join the adventure?

Yes, parents and adults can observe but should follow all guidelines to ensure a safe environment for animals and participants.

Are there any age restrictions for the Spring Tails Adventure?

The program is designed for school groups and Scouts typically between ages 5 and 12, but younger or older participants can be accommodated with prior notice.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?

Helen Woodward Animal Center strives to make their programs accessible; please contact them directly to discuss specific accommodations.

What animals will participants interact with?

Participants may interact with amphibians, small mammals, insects, and other gentle animals appropriate for handling and educational purposes.

Can the program be customized for specific educational goals?

Yes, Helen Woodward Animal Center offers customizable options to align the experience with your curriculum or scouting requirements.

What is the cancellation policy for private bookings?

Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance; please check directly with the center for detailed policy information.

Spring Tails Adventure in Del Mar, California | Zoo | Workshop

Spring Tails Adventure, hosted by the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Del Mar, California, provides a unique hands-on learning experience perfect for school groups, Scouts, and families eager to explore science through animal interaction. This private outdoor adventure combines engaging STEM activities with close encounters of diverse animals, allowing participants to study life cycles and seasonal spring changes up close. The program integrates educational content with interactive moments, making scientific concepts accessible and exciting for children. Whether it's observing amphibians, insects, or small mammals, every interaction is designed to spark curiosity and reinforce classroom learning in a fun and memorable way. The adventure is customizable to meet specific educational goals, allowing educators and group leaders to tailor their visit according to their curriculum or scouting requirements. Located near the beautiful Southern California coast, the program benefits from a mild climate and safe outdoor spaces, ideal for nature-based learning. Spring Tails Adventure encourages respect for wildlife and promotes environmental stewardship by teaching participants about animal behaviors and habitat needs. It’s an ideal trip for groups looking to combine outdoor exploration with meaningful science education in a comfortable, controlled setting. The Helen Woodward Animal Center’s experienced staff ensures every group receives personalized attention, making each visit a valuable and enriching experience.

About Helen Woodward Animal Center

Helen Woodward Animal Center in Del Mar, California, is a hands-on animal education and events facility that hosts camps, field trips, parties, and interactive animal encounters. The Center offers structured programs for all ages, including the DogSmart dog-handling lessons, Full Day Veterinarian Camp with suturing and CPR practice, and school-ready Spring Tails and Trail Adventure field trips that emphasize STEM and outdoor skills.

Birthday parties and family festivals combine private indoor spaces, themed playgrounds, animal interactions, crafts, face painting, and mini pumpkin patches to create memorable celebrations. Group-friendly experiences include customizable Interactive Animal Encounters and Crafting with Critters sessions that pair live animal ambassadors with guided art activities. Seasonal events such as Howl-O-Ween Harvest and the Howl-O-Ween Harvest Family Festival feature haunted-house explorations, hands-on STEM stations, and rotating animal presentations.

Programs mention expert guidance, age-appropriate instruction, and hands-on practice to build confidence and skills around animals. Many offerings are designed for schools, Scout troops, and families seeking educational enrichment, with options tailored to classroom goals or badge requirements. Activities focus on animal behavior, life cycles, veterinary skills, and responsible nature exploration. By combining practical instruction, live animal interaction, and customizable itineraries, Helen Woodward Animal Center supports engaging, educational experiences in Del Mar that cater to learners, families, groups, and event planners.

Reservations and program details are available through the Center's event and education pages, allowing groups to select durations, customize presentations, and plan age-appropriate activities that meet learning objectives and create hands-on memories for schools, scouts, and families alike regularly.