Wildlife Explorers Basecamp: Interactive Adventure in San Diego
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for families with young children and visitors of all ages with moderate mobility.
Overview
Discover Wildlife Explorers Basecamp in San Diego, where interactive wildlife exhibits meet outdoor play. Perfect for families seeking hands-on adventure and learning.
Adventure Tips
Bring swimsuits and towels
The outdoor water area features fountains and geysers where kids can cool off and get wet.
Plan a meeting spot
The water play area can be busy and easy to lose sight of children; designate a meetup location just in case.
Arrive early to avoid crowds
Visiting early in the day ensures a more relaxed experience and better viewing at interactive exhibits.
Wear comfortable shoes
The area includes climbing hills, rope bridges, and tunnels, so sturdy footwear helps for easier exploration.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sloths featured during seasonal presentations
- Coconut crabs (subject to molting and rotation)
History
Wildlife Explorers Basecamp opened in March 2022 as a modern expansion of the San Diego Zoo's children's area, replacing the former children's zoo with cutting-edge interactive wildlife experiences.
Conservation
The exhibit promotes conservation education through hands-on experiences that foster appreciation for invertebrates and lesser-known species, part of the zoo’s overall mission to inspire sustainable environmental stewardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit
Essential for enjoying the water fountains and geysers during warmer months.
summer specific
Towel
Helpful for drying off after playing in water areas.
summer specific
Comfortable shoes
Necessary for walking, climbing obstacles, and exploring the playground structures safely.
Sun protection
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses help protect during outdoor play.
spring|summer|fall specific