waco tx
 
 

cameron park zoo

Initially established in 1955 as the Central Texas Zoological Park, by a group of wildlife enthusiasts who wanted to create an area for recreation and education opportunities. In 1981, a master plan was established to expand the zoo, and in 1989 a countywide bond was issued to redevelop a 52 acre area of Cameron Park, into the Cameron Park Zoo. The project was completed, the old zoo was closed, and the new zoo was opend on public July 18, 1993. The Cameron Park Zoo features species from North and South America, Africa, Asia and Europe. Including a large reptile house, an African lion display, and Lemur Island, a large open lemur habitat. In 2005, a large new area was opened called the Brazos River Country, featuring a 50,000 gallon saltwater reef aquarium, a large swampland habitat, and many other native Texas type habitats, featuring numerous species found within the state. The exhibit is so large, it nearly doubled the animal population, and overall size of the zoo. [edit] Cameron Park Cameron Park covers 416 acres (1.7 km²), and is one of the largest municipal parks in Texas. It is located at the intersection of the Bosque River and Brazos River. The zoo's location in Cameron Park is near limestone cliffs, which provide an excellent view of Waco. A children's zoo is located within the park, with animals from around the world. Cameron Park Zoo also is the location of community events such as Zoobilee.