Campground Interpretation Programs
In Park Educational Programs
Junior Rangers
Ages 7-12
During these programs, young nature enthusiasts get a hands on experience learning alongside an interpreter about State Park cultural and natural resources. This state-wide program occurs at multiple parks and activities are catered to the specific parks in which classes are held. Program participants have the goal of completing ten Junior Ranger classes or self-guided experiences in order to earn their own Junior Ranger Sabertooth sew-on patch. Progress on their journey is tracked through the stampbook they receive at their first ever Junior Ranger class. To learn more about the program, please visit the official Junior Rangers website.
Little Rangers
Ages 3-7
Spark the enthusiasm for outdoor adventures early with these programs. Akin to the Junior Ranger courses, Little Ranger programs are an introduction to nature education and focus on hands on, age appropriate activities within the park. Participation in these classes are experiential and do not follow the same achievements tracking path as the Junior Ranger Program.
Wildlife Walks
All ages welcome; please request ADA accommodations 24 hours in advanced to (760) 753-5091
During these programs, participants are encouraged to safely view wildlife by learning some "do's and don'ts" from our State Park Interpreters. The types of wildlife highlighted in these programs will vary seasonally and might include learning to use binoculars or a spotting scope to catch sight of migrating gray whales or practicing our Good Tidepooler Etiquitte while we explore the Marine Protected Area. Check in-park information boards for details about what to expect and how to come prepared for these adventures!
Nature Table
All ages welcome
A more casual encounter with State Park Interpretive staff; come stop by the Park Office during these activity times to get hands on lessons about critters found within Swami's Marine Conservation Area. Different biofacts and natural history knowledge will be shared with every new nature table, so make sure to stop by each time for a new experience.
Summer Campfire Series
All ages welcome
During peak season (between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends) San Elijo State Beach interpretive staff host bi-weekly evening Campfire Programs. These programs are focused on fun for the whole family and are often interactive. Please check the Upcoming Events page for specific dates for these programs.
Litter Getter Self-Guided Activity
All ages welcome
This state-wide initiative is all about leaving our spaces better than we found them! The main goal of the California State Parks Litter Getter program is to encourage children to keep the parks crumb clean, wild, and healthy, and continue this behavior in their communities. Participants will be equipped with safety gloves and paper bags to collect litter from within the park. If they are able to fill the bag and show a State Park Interpreter or Park Aide their efforts, they will earn their own collectible stickers and certificate, certifying that they are a true ally to nature and official Litter Getter! While this effort is important to keep up everywhere, not every State Park is equipped with clean up materials. Please call the individual park you plan to visit to inquire about Litter Getter participation.
Teachers (including Home School) check out the PORTS website to register for k-12 PORTS-On-Demand virtual programs (minimum of 10 students required) https://www.ports-ca.us/
