Press Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2008

Cumberland, Ohio (May 5, 2008) – An overnight adventure weekend featuring a night safari tour will be offered at the Wilds May 16 to 18.

This family camp, called “Into the Wilds,” is for adults or families seeking an educational experience along with exciting, hands-on outdoor programs.

A highlight of the weekend is the Friday night Open-Air Safari tour. Campers will board a guided safari transport to explore the open-range animal areas at night, searching for rare and endangered animals such as rhinos, giraffes, and zebras that roam freely in the Wilds’ managed animal pastures. With barely any artificial light for miles, and only a powerful spot light for guidance, this experience will surely leave one wondering if they are still in Ohio.

Then, back at the Wilds’ yurt village camp, enjoy snacks and music around the campfire.

Day two features adventures such as rappelling, a special tour of the Wilds’ facilities including the Carnivore Conservation Center, and wetland activities. A more relaxing evening includes searching for beavers and frogs, and a special “top of the world” campfire under the stars.

After Sunday breakfast at the Overlook Café, enjoy canoeing and other activities before afternoon departure.

Throughout the weekend, participants will learn about the important conservation work taking place at the Wilds.

“We have a unique opportunity with our forest, wetland, and prairie habitats to offer opportunities for families to learn together while also having a lot of fun,” said Laura Busby, director of conservation education at the Wilds. “We hope to inspire lifelong appreciation for the world around us.”

Lodging for the weekend is at the Wild’s yurt village camp. Yurts are large, round, canvas-covered tent structures with wooden floors. Modern shower and restroom facilities are at the camp. Families may choose to stay in a community yurt, or bring their own tent.

The weekend camp begins at 6 p.m. Friday and ends at 1 p.m. Sunday. Cost is $150 for adults and $120 for children under 12. Four meals are included.

The deadline to register for this “Into the Wilds” camp is May 12.

A second “Into the Wilds” camp, also featuring the night safari experience, takes place July 4 to 6.

Additional Family Camp weekends, modeled after summer WildeCamp programs for youth, take place June 20 to 22, July 18 to 20, and August 1 to 3.

For more information about these and other programs, or to register, visit www.thewilds.org, or call 740-638-5030 x2286.

The mission of the Wilds, an independent, nonprofit organization, is to advance conservation through science, education, and personal experience. The Wilds is open to visitors on select days May through October.