Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware in the moment. It has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and promote overall well-being. Come cultivate mindfulness in nature during this guided meditation session designed to engage your senses and relax your busy mind. 

Give yourself time to notice the sights, sounds, smells and tastes around you. Engaging your senses can help bring you into the present and cultivate awareness, inner peace and joy. Spending time immersed in nature can help boost your immune system, too.

Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing are recommended. A yoga mat or portable chair is suggested, along with sun protection and water. Staff will also have extra tarps and pads to sit on. 

This program is recommended for ages 10 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian. 

We will meet at Freedom Hall next to parking lot G. Please arrive on time to experience the full sequence of the program.

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.

This program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. 

For questions, please call (657) 735-3596 or email averil.lough@ocparks.com.

OC Parks invites you to story time at Mile Square Regional Park! Join us as we read nature-themed stories, take a short walk and enjoy a hands-on activity. 

Please bring picnic blankets, pillows, chairs and anything you need to be comfortable. We will meet at Freedom Hall adjacent to parking lot G.

Advance registration is recommended but not required. Learn more and register here. 

This program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle.

For questions call (657) 735-3596 or email averil.lough@ocparks.com.

Inclement weather may cancel this program.

* This program has been canceled due to a staffing shortage *

Deepen your connection with nature on this gentle and meditative walk-through Mile Square Regional Park. Inspired by the Japanese practice of “shinrin-yoku,” or “forest bathing,” you will discover the healing power of nature for yourself.

This slow-paced walk will begin with a guided meditation to help you engage with your senses, followed by a series of invitations focusing on sense-based explorations. Throughout the program, you will be encouraged to deepen your connection with nature to help reduce stress and leave you feeling recharged.

Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat or other comfortable seating and their favorite tea or water for the closing tea ceremony. Please note this program involves drinking tea from sustainably sourced native plants. Wear closed-toe shoes, sun protection and bring water.

We will meet at Freedom Hall next to parking lot G. Please arrive on time to experience the full sequence of the program.

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.

This program is recommended for ages 16 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian.

This program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle.

For questions, please call (657) 735-3596 or email averil.lough@ocparks.com.

Inclement weather may cancel this program.

*This program takes place at O'Neill Regional Park, 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678*

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources. 

Participants will explore O'Neill Regional Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge.

This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. 

Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. 

The program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle. Inclement weather will cancel the program.

Advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

Bring your furry friend and join OC Parks staff and volunteers for a dog walk at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. 

Come enjoy an easy, 3-mile hike over uneven and unpaved terrain with approximately 75 feet of elevation gain. We'll stop along the way to learn about the bay and discuss ways to keep you, your dog and wildlife safe when out on the trails. 

Please wear closed-toe shoes and sun protection as needed, and bring water for you and your four-legged friend. 

To ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all, participants must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Two-dog maximum – Each participant may bring a maximum of two dogs.  
• Behavioral Expectations – Well-socialized dogs that are up-to-date on their vaccines are welcome.
• Leash Requirement – To ensure the safety of other participants and wildlife, dogs must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times within the nature preserve.
• Owner Responsibility – Owners are fully responsible for their dog’s behavior and will be asked to closely watch their canine companions.

Adverse weather will cancel the program. The program and parking are free.

Space is limited and advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

Join OC Parks staff and volunteers for a nature scavenger hunt that's fun for all ages!

Participants will find a series of interpretive tables and posts that are "hidden" along the trails near the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. There will be hands-on educational activities and prizes available for those who complete the scavenger hunt.

The program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. 

Participants may begin the scavenger hunt anytime between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. It takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.

The program and parking are free. Advance registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Learn more and register here.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

Adverse weather will cancel the program.

Come learn about one of Orange County’s wild cats: the bobcat. Participants will have an opportunity to learn more about these brave animals by exploring their pelt, bones, scat and more!

This fun and engaging program includes story time, an age-appropriate hike and a themed craft.

The program begins at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. Program content is tailored for the preschool level (ages 2 to 5), but all are welcome to attend. Please wear comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes.

Advance registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Learn more and register here.

Adverse weather will move the program indoors. The program and parking are free.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

Join Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve staff and volunteers in enhancing the bay’s habitat for local wildlife. Activities may include non-native plant removal, planting natives, watering, removing trash and Butterfly Garden maintenance.

No experience necessary. Please bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks and a refillable water bottle. Water and tools will be provided.

Minors 16 and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. 

The program and parking are free. 

Advance registration is recommended. Walk-ins are welcome but may be limited due to space. Learn more and register here.  

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

Adverse weather will cancel the program. 

Join OC Parks staff and volunteers to observe the sights, sounds and smells of nature during an intimate nature walk led by a certified nature and forest therapy guide. Through a series of invitations, you will be encouraged to explore in the present moment and deepen your connection with nature. 

Please note this is a slow-paced program designed for ages 14 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian.

Wear comfortable attire and bring a blanket, seating pad or small chair if you wish. 

The program and parking are free.

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (949) 923-2277.

 Adverse weather will cancel the program.

Nature journaling is a wonderful tool to make observations, create lasting memories and foster a deeper connection with nature. Each session will cover the basics of nature journaling, including fundamental art principles and maintaining your nature journal. Monthly prompts will help guide your eyes and ears to the outdoor wonders around you.

Bring a journal or sketch pad and your own art materials such as pencils, pens or watercolors. A portable chair is recommended along with sun protection, water and snacks. Be prepared to move along the trail a short distance and sit to document the beauty around you - no experience necessary!

This program is designed for ages 12 and older. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. 

The program and parking are free. 

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

Adverse weather may cancel the program.