03 Apr The Best Summer Camps for Animal Lovers in NYC and Beyond

If your child dreams of becoming a veterinarian, loves animals of all kinds, or lights up around furry, feathered, or scaly creatures, then an animal-themed summer camp is the perfect choice! Across New York City and nearby areas, there are incredible summer camps where kids can bond with animals, explore nature, and develop compassion and curiosity for the world around them. Here’s our roundup of the best NYC summer camps for animal lovers in 2025.

1. Green Chimneys Summer Camp

For over 50 years, Green Chimneys has blended great camp traditions with dynamic outdoor experiences to create exciting and educational summers full of memories to last a lifetime. Green Chimneys Summer Camps recognize each child’s individuality and support their desire to discover the world, and who they are in it. This simple philosophy helps to create meaningful summer experiences that keep kids returning year after year.

Choose from two beautiful locations in Putnam County, home to some of the most spectacular features of New York State’s Hudson Valley region.

Ages: 4–15
Location: Putnam County, NY
Website

2. Bronx Zoo Summer Camp

A must for animal lovers, the Bronx Zoo  offers weekly themed summer camps where kids explore wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and habitats. Campers enjoy up-close animal encounters, science experiments, games, and behind-the-scenes zoo experiences.

Ages: 2–17
Location: Bronx, NY
Website

3. GallopNYC Summer Horseback Riding Camp

For kids passionate about horses, GallopNYC offers therapeutic horseback riding camps in Queens. Campers learn riding basics, horse care, grooming, and develop confidence and coordination in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Ages: 5-21
Location: Queens, NY
Website

4. The Maritime Aquarium – AquaCamp

Located in Norwalk, Connecticut, and easily accessible from NYC, AquaCamp at The Maritime Aquarium immerses kids in marine science. Campers explore sea life through hands-on experiments, aquarium tours, and interactions with fascinating aquatic animals.

Ages: 6–15
Location: Norwalk, CT
Website

5. The Art Farm in the City – Summer Camp 

Right in the heart of the Upper East Side, The Art Farm combines animal care with art, cooking, and science. Kids interact daily with rabbits, turtles, guinea pigs, and more in a nurturing environment that inspires creativity and compassion.

Ages: 3–10
Location: Upper East Side & Upper West Side, Manhattan
Website

6. New York Aquarium Summer Camp

Located right on the iconic Coney Island boardwalk, the New York Aquarium Summer Camp offers an exciting, hands-on experience for kids who are passionate about ocean life and marine conservation. Campers dive into marine science through interactive lessons, animal encounters, aquarium exploration, and creative activities—all while learning how to protect our planet’s waters and wildlife. With age-appropriate programs from kindergarten through 8th grade, this camp is perfect for young ocean explorers ready to make waves!

Ages: Pre-K – 8th Grade
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Website: nyaquarium.com/learn/camps

Why Choose an Animal-Themed Summer Camp?
Animal camps are more than just fun—they teach kids about empathy, responsibility, environmental awareness, and how to care for living creatures. Whether your child wants to be a future vet or simply loves animals, these camps provide unforgettable experiences and valuable life lessons.

🎒 Plan Your Child’s Summer Adventure Today! Ready to find the perfect camp for your little animal lover?

Explore even more amazing options in our Super Summer Camp Guide 2025.
👉 https://newyorkloveskids.com/super-summer-camp-guide/