2023 Day Camp

Parent Handbook

Busch Gardens Education Department 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 Table of Contents
Welcome p.3
Registration Forms & CampDoc p.5
Arrival p.6
Dismissal p.8
Attire p.10
Adventure Island p.11
Attire p.10
Camp Safety p.12
Dining & Shopping p.15
Code of Conduct p.16
Camp Schedules & Itineraries p.17
Kindergarten p.18
1st & 2nd Grade p.19
3rd & 4th Grade p.20
5th & 6th Grade p.21
7th & 8th Grade p.22
9th & 12th Grade p.23
Refunds & Cancellation p.24
Contact Information p.25
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 Welcome
Thank you for choosing Busch Gardens Camp for your child’s summer camp program. We are
dedicated to creating a safe, enriching and fun atmosphere for all of
our campers. We provide memorable experiences that will last a
lifetime. Busch Gardens Camp programs are accredited by the
American Camp Association (ACA). To achieve and maintain this
accreditation, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay complies with or exceeds
standards set by the ACA.

Enhanced Safety Measures

Busch Gardens is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the
animals in our care. We have worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside
consultants, and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and
cleanliness standards. These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving
industry standards and methodologies, public health and governmental directives, and
advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19.

We are excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring and memorable
experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time.

Staffing
The Education Department at Busch Gardens has a year-round team of experienced camp
personnel. The senior camp team has years of experience teaching students of all ages. Our
seasonal camp counselors are highly motivated, experienced college students and teachers
that are carefully selected and screened. All camp staff participates in a wide range of
training including classroom management, child development, and discipline strategies. Our
counselors possess American Red Cross (ARC) First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, medication
administration training, and review safe driving practices. It is our goal to ensure a safe and
enjoyable camp experience for all.

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Things to Share with Your Camper
Whether you are 6 or 96 years old, homesickness is a very normal reaction at camp. The
combination of unfamiliar surroundings and new people can be unsettling at first. We
encourage parents/guardians to thoroughly read through the confirmation packet and to
address expectations with your child in preparation for camp.

Following arrival and check-in, campers participate in several “icebreaker” activities to help
everyone get acquainted. The activities are simple and include topics such as favorite
animals, favorite hobbies or even why they decided to attend a Busch Gardens Camp.

Busch Gardens Camp Goals

Based on a long-term commitment to education, Busch Gardens Camp strives to provide an
enthusiastic, imaginative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere to help campers develop
a lifelong appreciation, understanding and stewardship for our diverse natural environments
and resources.
Busch Gardens Camp goals are...
• to create a stimulating environment that encourages campers to become stewards of the
natural world
• to focus on creating an atmosphere of building self-esteem in our campers with positive
interactions and situations that build confidence
• to provide campers with opportunities for team work and problem solving
Our goals encourage our campers to be future ambassadors for this world we all share. You
can be a part of this outcome with your camper by simply asking them the following
questions each day after camp.
What animal(s) did you meet/see today?
What did the animal feel like?
What did the animal eat?
What did the animal look like?
What did you learn about today?
What was interesting about it?
What activity/craft did you do today?
What attraction did you experience today?
How did the habitat design help the animal
living in it?
What was unique/special about the
animal’s habitat/area?
Where does the animal(s) that you learned about today live in the world?
What animals do you see near where you live?

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 Registration Forms & CampDoc
All confirmation packet components, including
health history and release forms, need to be
completed and signed prior to camper
participation in any camp. This summer, Busch
Gardens Camps is partnering with
CampDoc.com, the leading electronic health record system for camps. You can now
complete and sign your camper’s health information and releases electronically! The
security and privacy of your camper's information is very important to us. The CampDoc.com
site is secure, encrypted and password protected. Only the Busch Gardens Camps team will
have access to your camper’s information.
Having signed up for camp, you will receive an “Invitation” email from CampDoc.com. This
“Invitation” email will include instructions on how to create and track your unique account.
CampDoc.com sends out periodic reminder emails for incomplete information. These
notifications will come from CampDoc.com, so please add this to your safe sender list to
avoid accidental delivery to junk and spam folders.
Please note that CampDoc.com supports the current and previous major releases of Chrome,
Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari which provide improved security and performance for
health information. If you have any questions regarding CampDoc.com, please contact us at
[email protected].

Please plan to review, complete, and sign ALL confirmation materials at least three weeks
prior to your camp date. Be sure to review the insurance information, medical history and
over-the-counter medication forms carefully.

Registration Check List

Here is a check-list of all forms you will have access to on your camper’s CampDoc
profile. Registration is complete once you have reviewed and electronically signed all
forms listed below:
• Camper Information and Health History
• Camper Medication Information and Over-The-Counter release
• Medical Consent and Assumption of Risk
• Photo Release, Liability Release, Voluntary Assumption of Risk and Indemnity
Agreement
• Vehicle Pass & Parent Handbook

This profile must be fully completed prior to the camper being admitted into the
program. If you do not receive your link or need to change the email associated with the
camper’s profile, please contact us at [email protected].

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 Arrival
Monday Morning
On Monday morning, check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. and lasts until approximately 8:30 a.m.
After parking your vehicle, please proceed to the check-in table and follow all instructions
given.
Camp Staff will confirm we have received your completed registration forms. You will also
confirm who is authorized to pick up your child besides the legal guardians stated on your
CampDoc profile. All names in CampDoc profile must be legal names listed on identification,
no nicknames or shortened names. Please note that any missing forms from your CampDoc
profile will need to be completed at this time and will delay your child’s check-in process.
Please arrive on time as late arrivals may miss program elements and will experience check-
in delays.
Upon the campers’ arrival, Camp and Health Service staff will review any medical concerns
with campers & parents individually. Some examples of questions campers could be asked
include any changes to medications they are taking, current health status, any cold
symptoms, or special medical needs. Health history summaries are confidential and remain
with the counselors during the course of the program. Campers (and their parents) may be
required to visit the Health Service’s Station if:
• They are checking in medications
• Discussing any specific medical concerns
• Reviewing any paperwork completed during check-in
Once campers have visited the check-in table and the Health Services’ station (if
applicable), they can proceed to the final stop, the T-shirt station to receive their camp
shirt.
After visiting all three stations, campers will be escorted by camp staff to the Welcome
Pavilion, where they will meet their counselor and receive a camp water bottle. Once all
campers have arrived, campers and their counselors will leave the check-in area to begin
their day.

Remainder of Week
For the remaining week of camp, check-in will be from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. only. We
recommend limiting the people arriving to only the camper(s) and their parent/guardian
when possible.

Upon arrival each day, please park your car and walk your camper(s) to the Check-in table
and sign them in. If your child will be late or absent, please call the Camp Leaders On Duty
between 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at (813) 600-0178. Unfortunately, missed days are not
refundable.

NO PETS are allowed on property, please leave pets at home.

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Medication
Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications must be given to health services staff during
check-in. Only Health Services or trained Camp Staff will administer medications, as
prescribed in writing by a physician, or as indicated by the manufacturer’s directions. All
medications must be in their original containers displaying original labels with a physician’s
instructions or with manufacturer’s directions. During the check-in process, a Busch Gardens
health services staff member will confirm and collect any medications from the camper,
ensure medication is in its original container, and log dosage information for counselors to
reference throughout the program. We recommend not bringing unneeded over-the counter
medications since Busch Gardens will provide most over-the-counter medications as needed.
Medications will not be dispensed without written physician and/or parent/guardian
permission.
While at camp, campers may experience certain general ailments such as headaches,
upset stomach, menstrual cramps, cuts or scrapes, etc. The Busch Gardens’ Medical
Director has provided an appropriate dosage for the over-the-counter (OTC) medicines
provided by the park. These medications do not need to be sent with your camper. See
CampDoc for the OTC medications we provide. Please contact us if you have questions
regarding OTC Medications.

Directions to Check-In
Enter Busch Gardens through the “Bus Drop-off/Pick-up” entrance on the west side of 40th
Street (McKinley). Follow the Busch Gardens Camp signs towards the main entrance of the
park to the security gate. The entrance to the security gate is to the left of the main
entrance of the park. Stop at the security gate and present the vehicle pass to the guard on
duty. (Be prepared for a brief vehicle search, which is a routine procedure for any vehicle
entering a back area). No pets, please. After the security gate, please proceed slowly and
follow the directional signs to the check-in area.

Adventure Island
Busch Gardens Apprentices and Thrill Seekers camps will be attending Adventure Island on
Wednesdays, and will need to be dropped off and picked up at that location

Enter Adventure Island through the main parking entrance toll booths. Please
display your vehicle pass* and proceed through the cones at the toll booth.
Follow the camp signs to the Picnic Pavilion at the rear left of the main parking
lot. Be advised, the main parking entrance will not open prior to the 8:00 a.m.
drop-off time.

A map to Adventure Island drop-off and pick-up will be available at Monday morning check-
in.

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 Dismissal
Camper Dismissal will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day. We recommend
limiting the people arriving for dismissal to only the camper(s) and their parent/guardian
when possible.

Upon arrival, please park your car and proceed to the pick-up area.

A mandatory I.D. check is in effect to pick up all campers. Only adults 18 years of age and
older who have been authorized on the camper’s CampDoc profile are permitted to pick up
the camper. There are no exceptions to this rule. All names in CampDoc profile must be
legal names listed on identification, no nicknames or shortened names. Only government-
issued identification will be accepted. Camp Staff will verify your I.D. against our authorized
pick up list and have you sign-out your camper(s).
Anyone not indicated on the CampDoc profile who arrives to pick up a camper must be
verified by Camp Staff via phone call directly to the parent/guardian. Under no exceptions
will campers be released to an unauthorized individual without verbal consent directly from
the parent/guardian.
Campers at Busch Gardens are to be picked up at the Welcome Tent (the same location
where they were dropped off).

Extended Care
Extended care is a service provided by Day Camp counselors that allows for a flexible pick
up time. For an additional fee, you can extend your campers’ pick up time to between the
hours of 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Classroom based activities are provided for campers with
games, crafts, and age appropriate videos.
Pricing varies, please visit www.buschgardens.com/camps for details.

Late Pick-up Policy and Fee

Please note that dismissal ends promptly at 3:30 pm, after which time we reserve the right
to charge $1.00 per minute until the camper is signed out. If charged, parents will be
contacted by the Busch Gardens Reservation team the following morning to process payment
for the late pick-up. There is no cut off time for this fee and the authorities will be notified
for any children left at camp one hour past camp end time.

Early Pick-Up
If a camper needs to be picked up before 3:00 p.m., please notify Camp Staff during check-
in that morning. All early pick ups must take place prior to 2:00 p.m. All camp staff are
preparing for Camp Dismissal from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. so we are unable to accommodate
any early pick up request during that time.
To help us ensure that your child is ready to be picked up at the appropriate time, or if you
have an emergency after camp begins, please call the Camp Leader On Duty 30 minutes prior
to your arrival at (813) 600-0178. It may take up to 30 minutes to get you camper to the
front of the park depending on where their camp is located at that time.

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Adventure Island
Busch Gardens Apprentices and Thrill Seekers camps will be attending Adventure Island on
Wednesdays. Campers will need to be dropped off and picked up at that location.

Enter Adventure Island through the main parking entrance toll booths. Please
display your vehicle pass* at the toll booth. Follow the camp signs to the Picnic Pavilion at
the rear left of the main parking lot. A map to Adventure Island drop off and pick up will be
available at camp check-in.

After-Camp Park Admission

After camp concludes each day, Day Camp participants may be readmitted to the park at no
additional charge

Busch Gardens Re-Admittance

Campers must be picked up from inside the park in order to be re-admitted into the park.
Parents must park in the general parking lot (parking fee will apply). Parents will need to
purchase park admission, if they have not already done so, and then enter the park through
the main turnstiles. In-park camper dismissal takes place from 3:00pm—3:30pm at the
Outpost Classroom. The Outpost Classroom is located next to the front-of-park Security/First
Aid Station. A Camp Staff member will be stationed inside the classroom to facilitate
Camper Dismissal.
Please Note: We no longer provide a hand stamp to re-enter Busch Gardens. If parents pick
up their campers from outside the park, they will be required to purchase admission, or use
a season pass to re-enter the park.

Adventure Island Re-Admittance

(Only Valid on Wednesday for camps that attend Adventure Island)
Campers must be picked up from inside the park in order to be re-admitted into the park.
Parents must park in the general parking lot (parking fee will apply). Parents will need to
purchase park admission, if they have not already done so, and then enter the park through
the main turnstiles.
Parents must notify staff Wednesday morning that they will be picking campers up inside the
park, and instructions and location will be given at that time.

Discounted Tickets for Camper’s Family Member

Please contact our Office at [email protected] for information on purchasing
discounted tickets for camper’s family members to visit the park while they are at camp!

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 Attire
Campers should dress appropriately for the outdoors and forecasted weather. Keep in mind
that Florida is hot and humid during the summer. All camp programs spend time outdoors
and involve a considerable amount of walking. Campers have the potential to get wet any
day of the week due to water attractions or from
Florida’s summer rain showers.

Camp T-Shirt
The Busch Gardens Camp t-shirt, issued at check-in
on the first day of camp, should be worn daily. The
camp shirt is easily identifiable for Camp and Park
Staff and allow counselors to manage their groups
more effectively. Please note that camp t-shirts that
are altered in any way, and have been deliberately
cut, ripped or torn, will not be allowed.
Additional camp shirts will be available for purchase
for $10 each (cash only please). Campers are
welcome to wear past years’ camp t-shirts as well.

Shorts
Campers should wear comfortable, quick-dry shorts. Quick-dry shorts allow campers to
continue to comfortably enjoy the day if they happen to get wet.

Footwear
Please dress your camper in comfortable, walking shoes. Campers are permitted to wear
open-toe footwear, as long as it has a heel strap. No sandals or flip-flops, please.

Water Bottle
Each camper is given a camp water bottle on their first day and it is highly recommended
that they bring their camp water bottles each day. There will be opportunities during camp
to visit water refill stations to refill bottles.

What To Bring
BUSCH GARDENS IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR STOLEN OR LOST MONEY OR VALUABLES.
Clearly label anything your camper brings

Suggested items your camper can bring: Items your camper should not bring:
• Hip pouches/small backpacks • A raincoat/umbrella (Camp staff provides
one-time use rain ponchos during inclem-
• Travel sized sunscreen/insect repellent ent weather)
• Cameras • Towels
• A hat • Large Backpacks
• Money or Valuable electronics

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 Adventure Island
Busch Gardens Apprentices and Thrill Seekers camps will be attending Adventure Island on
Wednesdays, and will need to be dropped off and picked up at that location. Directions to
drop off at Adventure Island will be given out at Camp check-in on Monday.

Attire
Please dress your camper in a bathing suit that has full coverage (NO BIKINIS PLEASE!) and
water shoes (highly recommended) or shoes that can get wet. Campers may choose to go
bare foot or wear their shoes throughout the day.

Your camper will be provided with a place to store things at the beginning of the day at
Adventure Island, so please pack shoes and sunscreen to apply throughout the day. Camp t-
shirts may be worn by your camper at all times, as well. Campers must wear shoes to walk
from the check-in pavilion into the park and back at the end of the day.

What To Bring to Adventure Island

BUSCH GARDENS IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR STOLEN OR LOST MONEY OR VALUABLES.
Clearly label anything your camper brings. Please DO NOT bring valuables.

Suggested items your camper can bring: Items your camper should not bring:
• Small backpacks • A raincoat/umbrella (Camp staff provides
one-time use rain ponchos during inclem-
• Travel sized sunscreen/insect repellent ent weather)
• A towel • Large Backpacks
• A hat • Money or Valuable electronics
• Change of clothes (only if staying for Ex-
tended Care)

Swim Assessment

Swim Assessments are conducted for all campers that participate in swimming activities to
make us aware of their abilities in the water. We are NOT teaching campers to swim. We are
using the assessment to document and become aware of their abilities in order to provide
them the best experience possible.
If a camper is unable to successfully complete the swim assessment, they will be issued a
Coast Guard Approved Life vest for their participation in water activities.
Campers will be asked to do the following as a part of their swim assessment:
• Float on their backs and then on their stomach to demonstrate their comfort level in the
water.
• Swim 25 yards across the pool to demonstrate their ability to make forward progress in
the water.
• Tread water for 45 seconds to demonstrate their ability to keep their head above water.

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 Camp Safety
Medical Services
Safety is first and foremost a part of every element of Busch Gardens Camp. For all minor
injuries and illnesses that occur at a park, the Busch Gardens, Adventure Island or SeaWorld
Health Services team is available and will address your camper’s medical needs. Counselors
are trained in American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED and equipped with a first aid kit and
AED while offsite. In the unlikely event a serious injury or illness occurs, participants will be
transported to Advent Health—Tampa, which is within two miles of Busch Gardens. A Busch
Gardens representative will contact you in case such an emergency arises. In order to
administer medical services to your camper, all medical liability releases, health history
forms, and insurance information must be completed and signed before arriving at camp.
Please make sure at least one phone number is U.S. based.

Weather Emergencies
Camp management and counselors balance the components of the program with the current
weather conditions. Weather conditions are monitored closely by our Security department.
The enjoyment of the park elements is contingent upon the proximity and nature of weather
factors such as lightning or high winds. Rain and afternoon thunderstorms are common in
Florida and may affect some camp activities. In the event of lightning or tornado warnings in
the immediate vicinity, campers will be moved to the closest indoor location until the threat
has passed. Indoor activities are planned if thunderstorms prevail.
Our park observes strict weather protocols. When lightning has been spotted within 3 miles
of our park, for everyone’s safety, guests and team members are required to seek shelter.
Once the weather passes, we can resume activities.
Camp dismissal may proceed as normal during inclement weather, but be advised that
campers’ arrival at the pick-up area may be delayed. You are welcome to wait until the
inclement weather passes before proceeding to the pick-up area as dismissal will be
extended to ensure everyone’s safety. Parents will be notified via text message if Camp
Dismissal will be impacted due to inclement weather. To receive text notifications, you must
opt in on your CampDoc profile.
During more severe weather, such as a hurricane, camp management will make a decision
about canceling a camp on a case-by-case basis. Once camp is canceled, it cannot be
rescheduled for the original date even if the weather clears or other factors change.
Parents/guardians will be contacted in a timely manner should such an event occur. Camp is
not canceled for rain. In the event of dangerous weather (i.e. hurricane) we will notify you
the day before about camp closure.

Rides
All park guidelines for guests when riding a ride also apply to campers (i.e. height
restrictions and disabilities). Campers who choose not to participate in this element will
participate in another activity with a counselor until the entire group has disembarked the
ride.

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Illness
Please keep your camper home if they seem listless, unusually irritable, complains of a
stomachache, headache, earache, or seems to be unusually pale or flushed. It is better
to be overcautious than to risk exposing the rest of the children and staff to a contagion.

Face Coverings & Sanitation

Camp operations will follow all posted park policies regarding face coverings for Busch
Gardens and Adventure Island. Please visit us at https://buschgardens.com/tampa/park-
info/park-safety/ for more information regarding our current face covering policy.
*Campers may be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (i.e. face coverings
and gloves) in some behind-the-scenes animal areas.
Key areas of camp operations, including activity and lunch areas, will be sanitized
between groups to ensure campers are utilizing sanitary environments. We have also
offer frequent handwashing opportunities, especially before and after eating.
Please contact us at [email protected] or (813) 987-5808 for any specific
questions regarding our face coverings policies or sanitation procedures.

COVID-19 Protocols
In the unlikely event that a camper exhibits any symptoms related to COVID-19, A
Communicable Disease Plan has been developed to prepare Health Services and Camp
Leadership to respond safely and efficiently to ensure the safety of the individual affected
and the group.
If a member of our Health Services team determines that a camper present symptoms
that could be related to COVID-19, the following steps will occur:

• Camp staff will escort the camper to our designated rest area, and provide an
opportunity for the camper to rest while they wait for their pick up.

• Camp Leadership team will notify the camper’s parent and/or emergency contact
that their camper is displaying symptoms that could be related to COVID-19 and that
immediate arrangements need to be made to have their camper picked up.

• If a camper is sent home due to displaying symptoms related to COVID-19, they are
only permitted to return to finish out that session of camp if they can produce a
negative test result. Camp Leadership will work with the impacted family to
determine what options exist, including rebooking to a later date (pending
availability).

Camp Leadership will also notify families if an individual in their camper’s group is sent
home because they exhibited symptoms that could be related to COVID-19. For privacy,
individuals will not be identified.

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Camper Conduct
The following actions/behaviors will result in an immediate dismissal from camp at the
parent’s expense:
• Consumption or possession of: alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco or vaping
products
• Possession or use of a weapon— weapons are defined as guns of any kind
(Including toy guns), slingshots, penknives, switchblades, box cutters, or any
other item prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• Sexually explicit language or behavior
• Physical assault, fighting, bullying or harassment
In addition to the aforementioned actions/behaviors, stealing, damaging property, lying,
cheating or the use of profanity is also not tolerated under any circumstance. Campers
who display these behaviors could be asked to leave camp depending on the severity or
frequency of the behavior.
Use of tobacco or vaping products (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, snuff, chewing
tobacco) is not allowed. Any such item will be immediately confiscated and the incident
reported to parents/guardians.

Security Search

Busch Gardens Security reserves the right to search through any person’s belongings
upon entering the park, or if it suspected that an individual may become in possession of
items that are harmful or inappropriate.

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R Dining and Shopping
Lunch
Campers are required to bring their own lunch each day. Please take the following into
consideration when packing your camper’s lunch:

• Clearly label your child’s lunch box with their first and last name
• Lunches are stored in secure locations, however refrigeration is not available. We
recommend that lunches contain non-perishable items or an ice pack to keep perishable
items cool.
• We ask lunch containers to be standard size so they can fit within the storage areas
provided.
• Campers are not permitted to share any of their lunch items with other campers.

Snacks
Busch Gardens Camp will provide a snack each afternoon. Some available food products may
contain or have been processed in proximity to peanut and/or other allergenic ingredients.
Please specify any food allergies and/or restrictions on your CampDoc profile. If the snack of
the day contains your camper’s allergen, an alternate snack will be provided.

Shopping
Campers will not have time to shop during camp, and Busch Gardens is not responsible for
lost money or valuables. If you are interested in purchasing any Busch Gardens souvenirs,
please visit our online store at www.buschgardensshop.com.

BUSCH GARDENS IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR STOLEN OR LOST MONEY OR VALUABLES.

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 Code of Conduct
Be nice: Behave respectfully towards counselors, campers, other park guests and animals.
Be safe: For the safety of counselors, campers and animals, reckless/unsafe behavior is not
tolerated.
Be smart: Be enthusiastic, listen to others and participate to the best of your ability.

Camp Policies
All campers are expected to act in a responsible and courteous manner at all times. Upon
arrival to the program, counselors will review examples of acceptable and unacceptable
behavior. Use of profanity, stealing, damaging property, lying, cheating, fighting, bullying or
harassment will not be tolerated under any circumstance. Campers are expected to be
responsible citizens.

Camp Expectations
Busch Gardens Camps offer enriching academic and social experiences that encourage
campers to pursue their interests in animals and the environment.
Each camp program will be as fulfilling as the campers make it. We encourage and expect
every camper to be responsible for him/herself by participating in all field activities and
projects and making many new friends. Campers should be interested in animals and their
environments, and prepared to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences! Throughout the week,
whether rain or sunshine, campers may have an opportunity to meet giraffes, parrots,
lizards, rhinos, or other species—face-to-face—and have an opportunity to talk with animal
care professionals from different zoological backgrounds.

Behavioral Concerns
Campers are expected to adhere to guidelines set forth by the counselors. If a behavior
problem arises, counselors will first discuss the problem with the individual. If the problem
continues, the camper may forfeit participation in future program activities, and the parent
will be contacted to discuss the problem. If the problem is severe, the parent will be
contacted to discuss the problem. Finally, if the problem is not rectified, the parents are
responsible for providing transportation for the participant to leave the program and a
refund will not be issued.

Inclusivity Statement
Busch Gardens Camps strive to create an inclusive camp environment that is free from
discrimination and harassment and that values the differences of our campers and staff.
Specifically, Busch Gardens Camps prohibits discrimination or harassment based on age,
race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
and disabilities.

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 Camp Schedules & Itineraries
Campers participate in a variety of activities every day and our schedule is fluid to
accommodate the unique nature of a zoological theme park. Campers will spend their day
enjoying attractions at Busch Gardens, experiencing immersive exhibits showcasing animals
from around the world, participating in interactive activities/crafts within our educational
classrooms, and connecting with our animal ambassadors up close and personal.
Our camp activities and schedules are
subject to change due to weather, animal
needs, park operation or various other
unforeseen circumstances without notice.
For this reason, we do not provide a written
schedule to hand out each day. In this
section, you will find your specific camp
highlighting important details, including:
• General description
• Camp-o-Meter

Camp-o-Meter
In an effort to better help campers and their parents prepare for their camp experience, we
have developed a Camp-o-Meter. The graphic below showcases the three overarching
elements that make up our camp programs and highlights the degree at which campers may
experience each element. Our camp icon is placed on a sliding scale to highlight how present
an element is within a specific camp. Elements are rated as:
• Mild—This element is still present within the camp’s itineraries, just not a main focus
• Wild—This element is a main focus for this camp
• Middle—Element is considered balanced within the itinerary when icon is in middle
The three elements that make up the majority of our camp itineraries are:
• Animals— Experiencing our diverse animal collection
• Attractions—Experiencing our world-class attractions
• Activities—Experiencing in-depth activities/games/crafts centered around the theme

Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 17 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 Kindergarten
Critter Kids
Nature-loving kids can embrace their wild side as they learn all about how their favorite
animals get around. Campers will get up-close with some of our critters as they learn about
the different ways they can move. Compare your locomotion skills to theirs as you become a
true Critter Kid!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Animal All Stars

Big, small, short and tall–kids will discover how their favorite animals measure up at Busch
Gardens. Campers will search for animal opposites from fastest to slowest and biggest to
smallest. Throughout the week, kids will discover how each species uses their adaptive
advantages to be all-stars of the animal world.

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 18 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 1st & 2nd Grade
Planet Patrollers
Get ready for a world of fun! Embark on a journey through Earth's continents to learn about
the animals and people that call them home. Fill your passport with stamps, speak in
different languages, play games from other cultures, and come face-to-face with animals
from around the world!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Natures Navigators
Can you think of a more exciting place than Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to learn fascinating
facts about animals? You will navigate through the zoo learning about all of our incredible
creatures from magnificent mammals to rockin’ reptiles. You are guaranteed to become a
zoo camp animal expert by the time the week is through!

Camp-o-Meter Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Troopers Mini-Camp
If you’re looking for a taste of what our camps have to offer, then BG Troopers is the camp
for you! Whether you’re facing a raging river rapid, enjoying a world class show, or meeting
one of our animals face-to-face, you’re sure to have a BLAST!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 19 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 3rd & 4th Grade
Bio Buddies
The animal world is full of wild wonders just waiting for you to discover! Only the truly
inquisitive animal lover need attend this camp, for each day will be filled with interactions
from alligators to zebras, with all your creature questions answered in between.

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Zoo-ber Eats
Busch Gardens is home to over 2,000 animals—that’s a lot of meals to deliver. See how
zookeepers make our animals’ dietary dreams come true as you learn about the interesting
foods animals like to eat. Learn which animals enjoy bugs for breakfast, lettuce for lunch,
and dates for dinner!

Camp-o-Meter Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Trekkers Mini-Camp
If you’re looking for a taste of what our camps have to offer, then BG Troopers is the camp
for you! Whether you’re facing a raging river rapid, enjoying a world class show, or meeting
one of our animals face-to-face, you’re sure to have a BLAST!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 20 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 5th & 6th Grade
Animal Sense-ations
Explore every inch of this thrilling park to find out how animals perceive the world around
them! Through behind-the-scenes interactions and up-close encounters, campers will find
out how animals see-hear-taste-smell-feel the world around them and how they use these
sensory systems to survive.

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Apprentices

Do you like the sound of being a VIP? Busch Gardens Apprentices will make you a “camper
with clearance”! Whether it’s learning about baking our delicious sweet treats, operating
one of our exhilarating roller coasters, or finding out what it takes to become a zoo
veterinarian, discover what it takes to operate our world-class theme parks!

Camp-o-Meter Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Travelers Mini-Camp
If you’re looking for a taste of what our camps have to offer, then BG Troopers is the camp
for you! Whether you’re facing a raging river rapid, enjoying a world class show, or meeting
one of our animals face-to-face, you’re sure to have a BLAST!

Camp-o-Meter Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 21 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 7th & 8th Grade
Junior Zookeepers
There are over 2,000 animal residents at Busch Gardens, and caring for them takes a lot of
hard work! Get a glimpse into the professional world of animal care as you learn about
animal nutrition, watch animal training sessions, and meet zookeepers and veterinary staff
throughout the week!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Thrill Seekers
Ever wonder what makes our parks so thrilling? Find out as you experience an amazing
combination of world-class rides, shows, and animal attractions. Go behind-the-scenes to get
an up-close look at our coasters, learn how they work, and put your STEM-skills to the test!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Trailblazers Mini-Camp
If you’re looking for a taste of what our camps have to offer, then BG Troopers is the camp
for you! Whether you’re facing a raging river rapid, enjoying a world class show, or meeting
one of our animals face-to-face, you’re sure to have a BLAST!

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 22 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 9th - 12th Grade
Counselor in Training
This hands-on experience provides high school students with unique training as they work
side-by-side with some of the best in the field to learn about child development and zoo
careers.

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Voyagers Mini-Camp
If you’re looking for a taste of what our camps have to offer, then BG Troopers is the camp
for you! Whether you’re facing a raging river rapid, enjoying a world class show, or meeting
one of our animals face-to-face, you’re sure to have a BLAST!

BG Voyagers is a 3-day camp that includes the following:

• Day 1 (Busch Gardens), 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Day 2 (Adventure Island), 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Day 3 (SeaWorld Field Trip), 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Camp-o-Meter
Animals
Mild Wild!
Attractions
Mild Wild!
Activities
Mild Wild!

Busch Gardens Education Department 23 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 Refunds & Cancellations
In the event that your child is unable to attend camp, our cancellation/refund policy is:

• A $25 processing fee will be withheld from all refunds

• Cancellations received six weeks prior to camp will result in a 100% refund minus a $25
processing fee per child
• Cancellations received three to six weeks prior to camp will result in a 50% refund minus
a $25 processing fee per child
• Cancellations received less than three weeks prior to camp will not be refunded.
• Partial refunds are not granted for any of the following: late arrivals, camper’s choice to
leave early, partial week attendance, at the parent’s request, or asked to leave due to
non-compliance of the camper code of conduct.
• Campers who experience a medical emergency prior to the start of their camp session
can receive a full refund, minus the processing fee, if a written notice (provided by their
doctor) is submitted advising they do not participate in the camp program.
• Campers have the option to rebook their camp to a different camp of equal value and
within the same calendar year, pending availability, at no additional charge.

While unlikely, Busch Gardens Camp does reserve the right to cancel an entire camp offered
due to lack of enrollment, unforeseen severe weather conditions, or other scheduling
conflicts. Parents will be notified as soon as this decision is made. If the Busch Gardens
camp leadership team decides to cancel a camp program, a full refund will be processed.
Camp is not cancelled for rain.

Busch Gardens Education Department 24 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook

 Contact Information

Contact Information Reason for Contact

Camp Leadership on Duty Send a text or leave a message for Camp
(813) 600-0178 Leadership. Messages are checked
throughout the day.
• Camper will be absent
• Camper will be arriving late
• Camper needs to be picked up early
Education Reservations Call our reservations team
(813) 987-5808 • General Camp Questions
• Reservations
• CampDoc Questions
Education Reservations Email our reservations team
[email protected] • General Camp Questions
• Reservations
• CampDoc Questions

Busch Gardens Education Department 25 2022Day Camp: Parent Handbook