Nature journaling is a wonderful tool for making observations, creating lasting memories and developing deeper connections with the world around us. This session will cover the basics of art theory and practices, journal anatomy and maximizing your senses.
The program will begin outside the nature center. Bring a nature journal and your own art materials such as pencils, pens or watercolors. A portable chair, sun protection, water and snacks are recommended. Be prepared to move along a short distance on the trail and sit to document the beauty around you.
The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.
Explore the natural wonders of Santiago Oaks Regional Park with OC Parks! Join us on the first Wednesday of each month for a variety of kid-friendly hikes and talks.
This program will begin outside the nature center and includes a short hike and a small craft. Program content is tailored for ages 2 to 6, but all are welcome to attend. Water, comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Strollers are permitted on this walk.
Inclement weather may cancel the program.
The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.
Explore the natural wonders of Irvine Regional Park with OC Parks! Join us on the first Wednesday of each month for a variety of kid-friendly hikes and talks.
This program will begin at the nature center. Program content is tailored for ages 2 to 6, but all are welcome to attend. Water, comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Strollers are permitted on the walk.
Inclement weather may cancel the program.
The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.
Explore the natural wonders of Peters Canyon Regional Park with OC Parks! Join us on the first Wednesday of each month for a variety of kid-friendly hikes and talks.
This program will begin outside the park office near the flagpole. Program content is tailored for ages 2 to 6, but all are welcome to attend. Water, comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Strollers are permitted on the hike, but please be aware this walk will be on unpaved trail surfaces.
Inclement weather may cancel the program.
The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.
Craig Regional Park lake will undergo a lake restoration project beginning in June through Fall 2025.
WHAT:
Lake dredging and bank stabilization will be performed along 600 linear feet of shoreline on the north side of the lake. Click here for a project map.
Partially funded through a Habitat Conservation Grant, the project will increase the lake’s depth following many years of sediment build up from urban runoff and storm flows and restore the surrounding banks using native vegetation to improve long-term stabilization and ecological health.
Shelter 5 and a portion of parking lot G will be closed during dredging to allow for construction access.
The repaired shoreline will remain closed after construction while native vegetation is re-established.
WHEN:
Anticipated Construction Duration: June through Fall 2025
Working Days/Hours: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Work on Saturdays may be performed.
The construction schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other factors.
(Santa Ana, Calif.) – Celebrate the changing seasons with Spring Into Summer, a new event at the historic Old Orange County Courthouse Saturday, May 31 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy live music and art activities, while also learning about the exciting upcoming summer events and programs across OC Parks.
The free family-friendly event will feature live performances by The Como la Flor Band: A Tribute to Selena and Yari Moré Latin Band, and guests are encouraged to bring their blankets and chairs to set out on the Courthouse lawn.
"I am excited to invite the community to join this celebration that will include live music, art and history. Spring Into Summer welcomes all to enjoy an afternoon of fun and entertainment,” said Second District Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. “Free admission and parking allow residents from near and far to attend, become more familiar with the many summer programs offered by OC Parks, and will also highlight Orange County’s Historic Courthouse, a cherished Santa Ana landmark.”
Spring Into Summer will offer a variety of free activities suitable for all ages, including engaging booths, craft workshops and more. Attendees can also explore the Backyard Kingdom: Orange County’s Natural World exhibit in the Third Floor Gallery, highlighting Orange County’s diverse ecosystems. Additional sketch drawing demonstrations will be available for artists of all levels, as well as a paleontology booth, offering a fascinating look at the region's rich history. Families can also experience fun, new interpretive activities designed to inspire young adventurers to explore the outdoors.
Join OC Parks at Spring Into Summer for a memorable experience filled with learning and fun. The event will feature food trucks on-site with tasty treats available for purchase. Admission and parking are free.
May 31 - Spring Into Summer Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission: Free Location: Old Orange County Courthouse, 211 W Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701 Parking: Free event parking available at P8/Transit Tower Parking Structure located at 301 W. 5th St., Santa Ana, CA 92701. Website:https://ocparks.com/events/spring-summer Contact: (949) 923-2230
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OC Parks
OC Parks manages nearly 60,000 acres of parks, historical and coastal facilities and open space for the County of Orange as part of OC Community Resources. http://www.ocparks.com
Join us at Irvine Regional Park to lend a hand restoring the Habitat Adventure Trail by removing invasive species, cleaning up excess debris, trimming large shrubs and preparing the area for new plantings of native species.
The Habitat Adventure Trail is located next to parking lot G. General purpose gardening gloves and long pants are recommended. Tools and gloves will be available on-site.
The program and parking are free for volunteers. Please notify the park attendant you are volunteering when you arrive. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and snacks. The program will begin at the Habitat Adventure trailhead at parking lot G.
This is a Level 2 difficulty rating for habitat restoration.
Slow down, observe and connect with the moment 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.
Experience the benefits of spending time outdoors in a mindful way during a lovely evening at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. Please note this is a slow-paced program designed for ages 14 and older.
Please wear comfortable attire and bring water and something to sit on, if you'd like. The program and parking are free.
Inspired by the Japanese practice of "shinrin-yoku" or "forest bathing," this walk invites you to take a break from the busy world and immerse yourself in nature. Throughout the program, you will be encouraged to explore your surroundings using your senses to deepen your connection with nature.
This is a guided, slow-paced walk with frequent opportunities to meditate and relax, designed for participants 16 and older. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat or other comfortable seating and their favorite tea or water for the closing tea ceremony. Please wear comfortable attire and be prepared to walk on uneven terrain.
The program will begin outside the nature center. Please arrive on time to experience the full sequence of the program.
As the day starts to settle into night at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, bats awaken, stir and streak into the evening sky. Come hear fascinating tales of our flying mammals.
We will spend time near the picnic tables hearing stories about our little heroes’ nighttime adventures. We will then take a short walk to see our bats begin their evening of hunting for insects. Be prepared to walk about .5 miles. Children may arrive 15-minutes early for a bat-related craft.
This program is for ages 6 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
