Nearby Natural Areas:
We’ve compiled a list of places for you to explore, below! You can learn more about our scheduled programs HERE, and sign up to receive email notification when more programs are scheduled, HERE.
We’ve also published this article with tips for how parents can utilize outdoor venues (gardens, trails, etc) to help educate, enlighten and entertain kids.
With 7-day access trails on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, nature lovers can experience the first signs of spring from the heart of Irvine to the coast of Newport Beach. The City of Irvine is home to a variety of trails in Bommer Canyon and Quail Hill that are open for passive self-guided access daily from dawn to dusk. Quail Hill is ideal for a quick escape into nature and is a delight in the springtime due to the abundance of birds and other wildlife foraging for food and shelter. Meanwhile, Bommer Canyon offers a wider range of hiking opportunities perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
- Crystal Cove State Park: Open 6am – sunset; Monday – Sunday
- El Dorado Nature Center: Open for hiking, fishing and archery from 8am – 5pm; Tuesday-Sunday
- Oak Canyon Nature Center: Trails open to public
- Peters Canyon Regional Park: Open from 7am – sunset
- Laguna Coast Wilderness Park: Trails open from 8am – 5pm; Monday-Sunday
- Sherman Gardens: Open 9am-4pm; Monday – Sunday; Purchase ticket online
- Civic Center Park: Park is open from 6am – dusk
- Irvine Regional Park: Trails and Irvine Railroad park open from 6am – 9pm; 7 days a week
- Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve: 9am – 3pm; 7 days a week
- For an even more extensive list of OC Parks, click HERE.
Nature Resources
Online Lessons & Activities (Wildlife/Nature):
The Environmental Nature Center provides a tremendous service for our community, free, public access to Nature, environmental education, and a sanctuary for our community to escape from life’s pressures. Please consider donating.
