Turn Your John Ball Zoo Visit Into a Grand Rapids Camping Getaway
John Ball Zoo welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for animal experiences, family programs, seasonal events, and special attractions. Woodchip gives families a campground home base for exploring the zoo and more of Grand Rapids while still enjoying the fun of a camping getaway.
Spend the day exploring the zoo, then come back to camp for the rest of the adventure.
Stay Near Grand Rapids. Come Back to Camp.
Make John Ball Zoo Part of Your Family Camping Trip
Animals & Family Adventures
John Ball Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals representing more than 230 species, giving families plenty to discover during a day at the zoo.
Make the visit part of a camping getaway instead of squeezing everything into one day.
Seasonal Events & Experiences
Special programs and seasonal events give families new reasons to return throughout the year.
Check the zoo’s current calendar before your trip to see what’s happening during your Woodchip stay.
A Full Grand Rapids Getaway
John Ball Zoo can be just one stop during your visit. Add museums, downtown attractions, shopping, seasonal events, and other West Michigan destinations to your camping itinerary.
Visiting the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival?
The annual festival has typically taken place from mid-April through mid-June, making it a great opportunity to pair an evening at the zoo with a spring camping getaway at Woodchip.
Enjoy the lights, spend the night at camp, and make a full Grand Rapids weekend out of your visit.
Planning Your Day at John Ball Zoo
Check Hours & Tickets
Zoo hours and admission can vary throughout the season. Check current ticket availability and hours before your visit, particularly for special events.
See What’s Happening
Daily animal programs and seasonal experiences can make every zoo visit different. Check the zoo’s current schedule when planning your day.
Make Time for Grand Rapids
Leave room in your itinerary for other Grand Rapids attractions before or after the zoo and turn your visit into a complete family camping getaway.
There's More to Explore Near Grand Rapids
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Near John Ball Zoo
Is there camping near John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids?
Yes. Woodchip Campground in Byron Center offers RV and family camping for visitors planning a trip to John Ball Zoo and other Grand Rapids-area attractions.
Where is John Ball Zoo?
John Ball Zoo is located at 1300 W. Fulton Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
When is John Ball Zoo open in 2026?
John Ball Zoo’s published 2026 season runs from March 20 through November 22. Daily hours and special-event schedules can vary, so visitors should check the zoo’s current information before their trip.
Can I camp at Woodchip while attending the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival?
Yes. The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival is an annual spring event at John Ball Zoo that has typically run from mid-April through mid-June. Woodchip Campground can be a camping home base for festival visitors. Check John Ball Zoo for current dates and ticket information.
Is John Ball Zoo a full-day activity?
The length of your visit depends on your family, the exhibits and programs you choose to experience, and any special events taking place that day. Check the zoo’s current schedule when planning your itinerary.
What else can families do while camping near Grand Rapids?
Families staying at Woodchip can also explore Grand Rapids museums, parks, shopping, seasonal events, downtown attractions, and other West Michigan destinations during their stay.