The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College
📍 Moorpark, CA
Intimate weekend zoo at Moorpark College where animal care students manage over 100 species including exotic rescues.
What a great resource for students wanting to learn how to be zookeepers, and a great place for a lovely outing and way for kids to learn more about exotic animals right in the Conejo Valley! The zoo rescues animals when they are confiscated at airports or from residential homes where they were wrongfully brought to begin with. Love that they offer a great birthday experience here, too!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 3 and up who want genuine educational depth alongside animal viewing. The student zookeepers share specific animal histories rather than generic facts, making this a richer experience than most larger commercial zoos. The small footprint means visits are manageable for younger children without overwhelming them.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →406 Google reviews
Georgina Corkett
a year ago
“What a great resource for students wanting to learn how to be zookeepers, and a great place for a lovely outing and way for kids to learn more about exotic animals right in the Conejo Valley! The zoo rescues animals when they are confiscated at airports or from residential homes where they were wrongfully brought to begin with. Love that they offer a great birthday experience here, too!”
Eileen Wang
6 months ago
“Cutest zoo ever! All the animals are well taken care of. The environment is clean, odor-free, and well-organized. As adults we’ve learned a lot about the animals at the wildlife theatre. The staffs are helpful and professional. They are truly passionate about their jobs around these animals. I’d say this place is perfect for both adults and kids. Don’t miss out!”
Kelsi Hoover
a year ago
“The facility is clean and the animals are well taken care of. We attended the Wild Lights event last year and the Boo at the Zoo this year to support the work they are doing. We loved hearing all the back stories of the animals and interacting with them. It is a small and intimate zoo that's worth the trip.”
Mark Mutti
a month ago
“Wow, what an incredible experience! The staff members were all so caring with the animals, knowledgeable, and eager to help answer the many questions and quandaries our group had. This is a charming, intimate zoo but packs a punch with an impressive variety and larger animals too. We’ll be back!”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The Teaching Zoo serves as a live classroom for Moorpark College's Animal Care and Training Program. Student zookeepers manage over 100 species, many rescued from airports or private ownership. Weekend visits include animal presentations with detailed backstories from knowledgeable staff. The facility is compact, clean, and odour-free. Birthday packages include reserved picnic areas and dedicated animal presentations. Special events expand the regular offering throughout the year.
