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The Micke Grove Zoo, located amid the lush 258-acre Micke Grove Regional Park in Lodi, California (just north of Stockton), has captivated tourists since 1957. This 5.5-acre accredited zoological park may be small in size, but it provides an outsized experience with its emphasis on endangered species, immersive ecosystems, and hands-on educational programs. The zoo is home to over 100 animals from 40+ species and specializes on native California wildlife as well as exotic creatures from similar climes, providing families with an intimate, crowd-free alternative to larger zoological facilities.

This thorough guide delves into every facet of Micke Grove Zoo, from conservation programs to its most adored animal residents, seasonal events, and behind-the-scenes experiences, demonstrating why it is still one of San Joaquin County’s most popular attractions.

Historical Roots: From Humble Beginnings to Modern Conservation

Early Years (1930s-1950s)

In 1938, William G. Micke donated land to San Joaquin County.
In 1957, the zoo opened with a small assortment of deer and farm animals.
In 1965, the first significant enlargement added exhibits for big cats.

Modern Era (1980s-Present)

1989: Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
In the 2000s, the focus shifted to the conservation of vulnerable species.
2021: The $3.2 million “California Trail” habitat opens.
Currently hosts 150,000+ annual guests.

Mission & Achievements

AZA certified breeding initiatives for endangered species.
Partnerships for wildlife restoration.
Best-rated children’s zoo in Northern California.
Top workplace awards for employee happiness.

Main Attractions Animal Exhibits & Habitats at Micke Grove Zoo

California Trail (2021)

Watch Kiona and Takoda, siblings, play as gray wolves.
American black bears: 500-lb brothers forage.
Observe mountain lions through eye-level glass.
Interactive element: Compare your paw size to that of a bear.

Primate Paradise

Siamang gibbons perform their morning “song” at 10am.
Lemur encounter: Walk-through habitat (weekends only).
Spider monkeys do acrobatics on 30 foot ropes.

The Aviary

Walk-through environment with over 50 birds.
Rare species: Victoria Crowned Pigeon.
Feedings are daily at 2pm ($3 for seed cups).

Reptile House

The king cobra is the only venomous snake in residence.
Gila monsters are rarely seen during the daytime.
Children’s area: Touch table with shed skins.

Children’s Zoo

Goat petting area (brush provided).
A rabbit town with tunnels to explore.
Chicken coop for heritage breeds.

Big Cat Territory

Snow leopard: A rare Himalayan species.
Jaguars are the only big cats that can swim.
Feeding demonstrations on Fridays at 3pm.

Australian Outback

Wallabies: Hop along the tourist path.
Emu, the tallest bird in Australia.
Kookaburras are famous for their “laughing” sounds.

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

Keeper Chats (Daily)

11 AM: Big cats.
1pm: Primates
3 pm: Reptiles

Animal Encounters ($25+)

For lemur lunch, feed grapes to ringtails.
Organize a reptile rendezvous with a Python.
Meet rescued owls.

Keeper-for-a-Day (Ages 12+)

4-hour program ($150)
Prepare diets and maintain clean ecosystems.
Certificate of completion

Educational Programs

Zoo School (Grades K-6)

Field outings with NGSS-aligned curricula.
Overnight programs (for ages 8+)

Summer Camps

Animal investigators (aged 6-8)
Junior Zookeepers (ages 9–12)

Adult Programs

Photography Workshops
Conservation Lecture Series

Special Events Throughout the Year

Zoo Boo (October)

A less terrifying Halloween event.
Animal Pumpkin Enrichment
Costume Parade

Winter in the Wild (December)

Animal “gift” unwrapping
Hot chocolate with Keepers
Lights display

Party for the Planet (April)

Earth Day Celebration
Recycling crafts
Electric vehicle showcase

Twilight Tours (Summer)

After hours animal activities
Flashlight Scavenger Hunt
S’mores at Sunset

Visitor Information

Hours & Admission

Daily hours: 10am-5pm (last admittance 4:30pm).
Adults pay $8.
Children (ages 2-12): $5.
Parking costs $6 and includes both the zoo and Micke Grove Park.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings: Active animals.
April-May: baby animal season.
September brings comfortable temps.

Accessibility

Wheelchair rentals cost $5.
Sensory bags are offered.
Braille guidebooks

Dining Options

Zoofari Café serves burgers and salads.
Picnic places across the park.
Vending machines offer cool refreshments.

Conservation Impact

AZA Species Survival Plans

Snow leopards
Siamang gibbons.
Red-crowned Cranes

Local Wildlife Support

Raptor rehabilitation with UC Davis
California red-legged frog breeding
Monarch butterfly waystation

Sustainability Efforts

Solar-powered golf carts
Rainwater collection system
Zero-waste events

Why Families Love Micke Grove Zoo

The intimate size allows for a 2-hour visit.
Experience hands-on learning at every turn.
California-focused conservation
Affordable compared to Bay Area zoos.

“Where every visit supports wildlife protection and creates lifelong memories.”

Location: 11793 Micke Grove Rd, Lodi, CA 95240
Contact: (209) 331-2010

Micke Grove Zoo demonstrates that amazing things come in little packages. Every visit delivers memorable experiences, including hearing gibbons sing before dawn and watching jaguars swim overhead. The zoo’s dedication to conservation, education, and community transforms it into a living school, with each animal having a unique narrative to share.

Cost: From $3
Phone: (209) 331-2010
Email: amallapur@sjgov.org
Website: www.mgzoo.com
Address: Micke Grove Zoo, 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi, CA 95240
Location Map: