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Waco, Texas / Museums

Cameron Park Zoo

A sprawling 52-acre sanctuary near downtown Waco, Cameron Park Zoo houses over 1,700 animals from 300 species in naturalistic habitats, emphasizing wildlife conservation and biological diversity.

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Cameron Park Zoo
Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0

What is the Cameron Park Zoo known for?

The zoo is a sanctuary for ten of the planet's most threatened species and houses the largest colony of South African penguins in Texas.

What are the hours for Cameron Park Zoo?

The zoo is generally open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some sources indicate Sunday hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Which days is the zoo closed?

Cameron Park Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

What can I see at the zoo?

The zoo houses more than 1,700 animals representing 300 species across 52 acres. Notable exhibits include the Herpetarium, which features waterfalls, crocodiles, and spiders, and the Brazos River Country exhibit, which focuses on regional flora and fauna.

How do I buy tickets for Cameron Park Zoo?

Tickets can be purchased through the zoo's official website.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Cameron Park Zoo is a premier wildlife sanctuary located within the larger 416-acre Cameron Park near downtown Waco. Spanning 52 acres, the zoo is home to more than 1,700 animals representing over 300 species from around the globe. The institution is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), upholding high standards for animal care and management. The zoo's design focuses on natural habitats and educational experiences. Visitors can explore the Herpetarium, featuring waterfalls, crocodiles, and spiders, or the Brazos River Country exhibit, which is themed around the regional flora and fauna from the Gulf of Mexico to West Texas, following the path of early Spanish explorers. The zoo has also gained popular culture fame, having been featured on HGTV's Fixer Upper. Historically, the vision for a zoo in Waco began in 1955, though it officially opened its gates in 1993 after years of planning and fundraising. Today, it serves as a sanctuary for ten of the planet's most threatened species and hosts the largest colony of South African penguins in Texas. Recent expansions include the Penguin Shores exhibit, which opened on August 8, 2024, following a $12.8 million investment and 18 months of construction.

Visitor tips

  • Tickets can be purchased through the official website.
  • Open daily, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
  • Hours are generally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though Sunday hours may start at 11 a.m.
  • Be aware that some animal exhibits are subject to weather and animal choice.

Nearby context

The zoo is nestled inside the 416-acre Cameron Park, providing a seamless transition from a managed wildlife sanctuary to the natural beauty of one of Waco's largest city parks.

Sources

Evidence and links