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
- Date:
- Sun, 12/10/2023
- Time:
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Where:
- Santiago Oaks Regional Park
- Difficulty Rating:
- 1
- Minimum Age:
- 8
- Spaces Left:
- 6 of 20
Thursday, December 14, 2023
Limestone Canyon Equestrian Ride: Box Springs and the Sinks via East Loma and Limestone Ridge
This leisurely morning ride travels through 11.5 miles of beautiful Limestone Canyon, known for its scenic landscape and majestic Coast Live oaks. The canyon is alive with seasonal wildflowers, butterflies, and a variety of native and migrating birds.
Equestrians with trail riding experience, a fit and able horse, and the ability to trailer to the staging area are welcome to join the ride. Owners of unshod horses, please note that footing may include areas of gravel and asphalt pavement.
- Date:
- Thu, 12/14/2023
- Time:
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Where:
- Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 5
- Distance:
- 11.5 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 18
- Spaces Left:
- Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 12/06/2023
Monday, December 18, 2023
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Come explore the newly opened Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, the northernmost portion of OC Park’s Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic fitness hike involves steep climbs and descents on several single-track trails and is done at an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. Reward yourself with panoramic views of Fremont and Weir Canyon Nature Preserves and beyond, possible wildlife sightings, interesting rock formations and beautiful wildflowers in season.
Please come prepared with a sturdy day pack, water, snacks, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail. All participants must carry their own day pack and water and be comfortable hiking an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. Underprepared participants may be denied access to this activity.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
- Date:
- Mon, 12/18/2023
- Time:
- 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
- Where:
- Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
- Difficulty Rating:
- 4
- Distance:
- 6.5 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 18
- Spaces Left:
- Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 12/10/2023
