Would you like to learn more about the fantastic wildlife at Riverbanks and beyond? Our award-winning Education Department offers a wide variety of programs for all ages and interests.
For more information on these and other exciting programs please call the Education Services Coordinator at 803.779.8717x1113 Monday through Friday between 9:00am and 4:30pm, or check your latest issue of Riverbanks magazine!
Download* our new conservation education programs brochure. (*requires Adobe Reader)
Riverbanks' Spring Break Camp and Winter Break Camp are offered to children ages 5-10 and pack hands-on activities, animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, games, and arts and crafts into three fun-filled days. The Summer Camp Programs (Sprout Camp, KinderCamp, Wild Weeks and Adventure Camp) serve 3-15 year olds.
Riverbanks' Garden Programs provide opportunities for people of all ages to learn more about gardening and the fascinating world of plants. Come play in the dirt at one of these hands-on programs!
Homeschool Monday programs are special opportunities offered especially for homeschool students and groups. Each month features a new schedule of programs and encounters.
Whether you teach preschool or high school, we have a school program to fit your needs. All programs are carefully crafted around South Carolina Science Academic Standards and are developed to involve your students in active, inquiry-based learning.
Riverbanks is pleased to offer several group tours. School Tours are most appropriate for grades 6-12 and special needs groups and take students on an enlightening excursion through the park; Guided Garden Tours allow budding gardeners in pre-school through grade 12 to explore the Botanical Garden; and Behind-the-Scenes Adventure Tours give individuals or small groups an inside look at some out-of-sight places in the Zoo.
The ZooTeens program, a partnership between Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands and Richland County Recreation Commission, reaches out to underserved youth ages 14-17 in the Columbia, SC community. ZooTeen participants have the ability to explore career opportunities in zoos and aquariums while learning practical animal care and environmental education skills.
ZOOventure programs are special opportunities for Riverbanks Society members to learn more about the world of Riverbanks. Age-specific programs are offered to all groups from the very young to adults!
