New feature is coming to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Kids love watching the animals and soon there will be a special section for kids to climb and learn it is called Wilderness Falls and it is just a few months away from opening.

The unmistakable sound of saws and jackhammers signals big changes are taking place at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.

The park is in the process of getting a major makeover behind the snack bar near the Dino Dig area called Wilderness Falls.

A play area for kids to splash around in or climb the fire lookout tower.

"It's basically a water play area...it's something we've been working on for awhile...we're excited to have guests come out in and cool off," said Ciara Castellanoz.

Unlike other zoo expansions like the African Safari or Sea Lion Cove, this multi-million dollar project will not feature any live animals, instead, Wilderness Falls offers a learning experience of our Central California wildlife.

"We know that where we are in the Central Valley that not everyone has the access to go to the coast or to go to the mountains and do some of these things...so if we can bring a little piece of that here to the zoo and really educate kids and families that are so close to home...I think that's what we really try to do," said Castellanoz.

The zoo's latest addition is being paid for through Measure Z and remains in step with recent expansion projects that have helped keep the zoo a viable option for families.

"This kind of environment is the greatest way for kids to learn," Kelley Drake said, "The kids we brought with us today all love animals they go to animal books at the library first."

The New Wilderness Falls is just one more attraction that children will be able to enjoy with their families at the zoo.

Wilderness Falls is expected to open by next spring or summer.