We are lucky enough to live a quick drive away from one of North America's largest conservation centers in the Wilds, located just outside of Zanesville. The Wilds offers an extraordinary opportunity for visitors to explore forests, wetlands and prairie habitats on its 10,000 acres of reclaimed strip mine lands.
Since it opened to the public in 1994, the Wilds has offered unique lifelong learning opportunities for visitors. The signature experience is a Safari Transport tour through open-range habitat where visitors can see and learn about the conservation efforts taking place to support the rare and endangered species at the Wilds.
A variety of new overnight experiences in conservation education have been created for the 2008 season specifically with adults and families in mind. They include:
Into the Wilds, May 16-18 and July 4-6
This three-day adventure for the whole family includes night safari tours, visits to animal facilities, wildlife discussions with Wilds staff, capturing and releasing wildlife, games, campfires, and explorations of wild areas. Cost is $150 adults; $120 children under 12.
Family Camps, June 20-22, July 18-20, and Aug 1-3
Adults, too, can now join with their kids to experience summer camp life at the Wilds’ yurt village, muckin’ in the marsh, fishing backcountry lakes, rappelling, canoeing, wildlife watching, and all the fun learning opportunities of WildeCamp. Cost is $150 adults; $120 children under 12.
Wilds Art Camp, Aug. 15-17
Join art teachers in the season of wildflower abundance on the Wilds. Use different media and improve your artistic technique as you explore both the detailed and sweeping visuals at this 10,000-acre wildlife center. This camp is designed for those ages 18 and older. Cost is $150 per person.
Wilds Photo Camp Sept 26-28
Head out on safari in search of Asian rhinos, African antelope, soaring raptors and spectacular scenery - without ever leaving Ohio! At a pace that allows ample time to explore the decisive visual moments, you'll learn photo techniques from expert photographers and build your portfolio of stunning flora, landscapes, and wildlife during this exclusive opportunity. This camp is designed for those ages 18 and older. Cost is $150 per person.
The Wild Vet Camp that began in 2007 as part of the WildeCamp program has been expanded to include two more career learning opportunities and is now called Working Wild Camp.
Working Wild Camp Aug. 10-15
This hands-on practicum camp is for youth ages 14 to 19 wanting to learn more about being a wildlife veterinarian, naturalist, or animal management specialist. Lab and field classes with Wilds staff will provide many opportunities to learn about these important careers in conservation. Cost is $575; $518 for Wilds members.
For more information about these programs, including registration and costs, visit www.thewilds.org, email reservations@thewilds.org, or call 740-638-5030 x2286.