Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

We spent quite a bit of time here in this area! There are interactive exhibits to do inside the Spineless Marvels building. And tons to see in this area in general. There is a butterfly biosphere building too that I enjoyed. Also there was an outdoor sloth presentation. So cool!!

This new part of the zoo was opened in March 2022. There is a lot to see here and has some cutting-edge interactive exhibits for kids to play with. There are three parts to this area. The outdoor area has climbing obstacles and a water pad. Bring the swim suite for the kids to change into as the area has fountains and gysers to get the kids soaked on the hot days. The other 2 areas are split into two buildings. Each of these buildings is split into first and second stories with different exhibits on each level. Great place for kids to run and be kids in. There is additional climbing hills when you first enter the area past the giant marble.

Amazing! Did someone from Disneyland draw the plans for this? Because the attention to detail, the set up, the many different areas to explore were all so stunning. I have been going to the SD zoo since I was kid living in SD, been there millions of times, but this section had their cake and ate it too! My son had a great time though I think I was more in awe than any child there lol Only problem is that it is really easy to lose your kid in the water area...fortunately there is staff all around and as long as u plan an area to meet in case u get separated, then it's OK. But wow! Great job SD zoo. Since I am a member, we will be back at least 20 more times this year he he

First time visiting the newly opened replacement of the children's zoo area. The kiddos were very disappointed there's no "petting zoo" type area, but I guess we'll have to go to the safari park for that. The exhibits are cool and we wanted to see the coconut crab but it was off display "because it's molting". I recommend bringing swimsuits and towels, there are many water features families can play in. It's a nice extension to the zoo with several tunnels/rope bridges/playground style structures.

Recently opened and an awesome addition to the already amazing zoo! Great for small kids, gives them plenty of new things to look at and plenty of different play areas! Has several small exhibits with insects and small critters. There is a water area for kids to get wet and cool off, can even purchase suits and towels if you didn't remember to bring them to the zoo!