Cameron Park Zoo | Waco

Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas, is a renowned and vibrant zoo that offers visitors a unique, immersive experience into the animal kingdom. Spanning 52 acres, the zoo is home to over 1,700 animals representing approximately 300 species from across the globe. The zoo is well-known for its high-quality exhibits, conservation efforts, and engaging educational programs.

History and Overview

Cameron Park Zoo opened in 1993 and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a mark of excellence for animal care, wildlife conservation, and public education. It is also recognized by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). The zoo is located within the scenic Cameron Park, along the banks of the Brazos River, providing a beautiful natural setting for its exhibits.

Key Exhibits

Penguin Shores

Opened in August 2024, this exhibit houses the largest colony of endangered South African black-footed penguins in Texas. The exhibit is a $12.8 million investment that provides a climate-controlled environment with a large pool, rock structures, shaded areas, and vibrant murals that represent South African coastal habitats.

Besides penguins, the exhibit also features a black-footed cat named Smidgen. The exhibit is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) program.

Asian Forest

This exhibit mimics the tropical forests of Sumatra and Borneo, Indonesia. It houses species such as Sumatran tigers, orangutans, and Komodo dragons. The Asian Forest provides a detailed and immersive environment designed to replicate the species' native habitat.

The zoo’s commitment to conservation is evident, especially with the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, which is part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP).

African Savanna

This large open-air exhibit showcases a variety of African species including giraffes, zebras, and antelope. Visitors can feed the giraffes on weekends at scheduled times (11:00 AM and 2:00 PM). The African Savanna is designed to provide a spacious and natural environment for these animals to roam, mimicking the African plains.

Herpetarium

The Herpetarium is a 5,000-square-foot exhibit dedicated to reptiles and amphibians. It features species from diverse ecosystems including jungles, deserts, and grasslands. The exhibit is home to a variety of snakes, lizards, frogs, and turtles, showcasing the amazing diversity of these cold-blooded animals.

Aquariums

The zoo houses two large aquariums—one dedicated to freshwater species and the other to marine life. These aquariums provide visitors with a window into aquatic ecosystems, showcasing fish and other aquatic creatures in beautifully designed tanks.

Grammy Nell’s Play Area

A family-friendly area where children can enjoy water features and play equipment while adults relax in the shaded spaces nearby. This area is perfect for families to take a break and enjoy some time outdoors while still being near the zoo's main exhibits.

New Additions

Giraffes

In December 2023, Eleanor, a Masai giraffe born in 2021 at the San Diego Zoo, joined the zoo’s existing giraffes, Dane and Jenny. The Masai giraffe is the largest subspecies of giraffe and is listed as endangered due to poaching and habitat loss. Eleanor's arrival supports the zoo’s efforts in giraffe conservation.

Sumatran Tigers

In October 2024, two male Sumatran tigers, Gusti and Nakal, arrived from the Memphis Zoo. These tigers joined the zoo’s female Sumatran tiger, Maharani, as part of an ongoing effort to increase genetic diversity and strengthen the breeding program for this critically endangered species.

Gerenuk

A baby gerenuk named Marcella (or Marci) was born in October 2024. Gerenuks are a type of antelope known for their ability to stand upright on their hind legs to reach high branches. The birth of Marcella helps the zoo support this species' conservation efforts.

Horned Pit Vipers

On July 20, 2024, the zoo welcomed six horned pit vipers, a species native to Vietnam and southern China. These snakes are considered near-threatened due to habitat loss and the pet trade. The zoo’s breeding program helps to ensure the species' future.

Conservation Efforts

Cameron Park Zoo is deeply involved in wildlife conservation, both locally and globally. The zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which focuses on breeding endangered species to maintain healthy and genetically diverse populations in zoos. The zoo has also worked with the Bornean Orangutan Survival Foundation to create facilities for orphaned orangutans and support their eventual release back into the wild.

Additionally, the zoo partners with various global conservation organizations, ensuring that its efforts contribute to broader environmental sustainability. Its conservation projects are supported by educational programs and exhibits that highlight the importance of protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity.

Education and Programs

The zoo offers a wide variety of educational experiences for visitors of all ages:

Animal Presentations: Interactive sessions are available where visitors can learn about specific animals and their behaviors. These presentations are offered during weekdays (September to May) and can be scheduled in advance.

Zoo Camps: Seasonal camps are available for children, offering hands-on learning experiences about animal care and wildlife conservation.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours: For those interested in learning more about animal care, these tours provide a closer look at the daily operations of the zoo and its conservation efforts.

Zoo To You: This outreach program brings the zoo’s educational experience to schools and community events.

Admission and Hours

General Admission:

Adults (13+): $16

Seniors (60+): $14

Children (3–12 years): $12

Children under 2: Free

Operating Hours:

Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Last entry is at 4:30 PM daily

Closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Tickets are available for purchase online, and membership options are available for those who wish to visit frequently.

Location

Cameron Park Zoo is located at 1701 North 4th Street, Waco, Texas 76707. The zoo is a family-friendly destination, offering an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages.

Whether you’re looking to explore the wildlife from around the world, engage in interactive exhibits, or support wildlife conservation, Cameron Park Zoo offers something for everyone. It is an excellent destination for a fun and educational day out in Waco, Texas.