The activities below are offered by a variety of organizations and their dedicated volunteers. All programs are FREE unless noted below. Programs led by IRC-Certified Volunteers require pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. on the day prior to the event. No walk-up registrations will be permitted for these events. For policies of other organizations, please use the sign-up information provided. For mobility device policies click here.
Note: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for these events. For programs requiring online registration, each adult and child must be registered. |
Need help? For the fastest answers, look for organization-specific contact information in each event listing (click More Information for full listing). If no contact information is listed, email info@irconservancy.org for assistance.
Click here to learn more about IRC-Certified Volunteers. • Click here to learn more about the Difficulty Ratings.
Sunday, December 10, 2023
Nature Journaling at Santiago Oaks

Nature journaling is wonderful tool for nature observations, creating lasting memories, and making deeper connections with nature. Each session will cover the basics of art theory and practices, journal anatomy, and maximizing your senses. Monthly prompts will help guide your eye and ear to the wonders in nature.
Bring a nature journal 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.
Program is free though there is a Park Entrance Fee per entry vehicle. Rain may cancel the program. For questions, please contact Resource Specialist, Kelley.Brugmann@ocparks.com at 714-973-6625.
Monthly Subjects:
December: winter solstice, water/riparian
January: shapes in nature
February: birds
March: spring equinox, wildflowers
Sunday, December 17, 2023
CANCELLED: Backcountry Patrol & Trail Ambassador Training

The new OC Parks’ Trail Ambassador Volunteer role provides positive educational interactions between representatives of OC Parks and trail users while delivering a message that reflects the importance of trail safety and responsible trail use to park visitors. This role can overlap with Backcountry Patrol (BCP), who share trail etiquette, answer questions about the park, monitor trail maintenance, and scope out trail details at Park Staff’s request.
Trail Ambassador opportunities are primarily stationary (at trailheads or booth) or limited hiking to best connect with park visitors. Backcountry Patrol Volunteers can explore more of the park’s vast trail system to connect with visitors throughout the park.
This training takes place half the time in the classroom for discussion and group activity, with the second half walking the trails to view the field experience. Please be prepared for partial hiking.
For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Kelley Brugmann at (714) 973-6625 or Kelley.Brugmann@ocparks.com
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Winter Solstice Stroll-CANCELLED

Welcome back the light in Santiago Oaks during our Winter Solstice Night Walk. Celebrate the shortest day of the year as we begin to the see the return of light at 7:27 p.m. on December 21. This night hike will overlap the start of winter but also the start of longer days. Plants and animals are still in full swing for winter, but they are slowly changing as the days become longer for the next spring season.
This hike is not recommended for very small children or strollers. No pets please. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian during the program. Dress in warm layers at the canyon is quite chilly at night.
For questions, please contact Resource Specialist, Kelley Brugmann at 714-973-6625 or Kelley.Brugmann@ocparks.com