San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park

( Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times )

"It's cheaper than going to Africa, I'll say that," Christine said as she scanned a rolling savanna where giraffes, gazelles and elephants ambled within a few dozen yards of a tent she shared with her husband, Jim.

For the Claremont couple and more than 50 other safari wannabes like me who spent a chilly Saturday night in March at the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park, the aptly named Roar & Snore camp out was also enlightening, fun and a little eerie. But not necessarily restful.

-- Jane Engle

Read more: San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park offers overnight camping near wildlife

Planning your trip:

San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park, (800) 407-9534, www.sandiegozoo.org.