We invite the general public to learn about The Nature Reserve’s ecology and history while experiencing our oak-lined canyons, valley grassland, flowing streams, and scrub-covered hills.
The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo is nestled in the coastal foothills of southern Orange County. Oak Woodlands, Coast Sage Scrub, and Valley Grasslands cloak the hills and valleys, providing a rich mosaic of habitats. It is our goal to teach the community about the richness of California’s biodiversity.
Educational programs are offered throughout the year: nature walks, butterfly counts, wildflower wanders, bat walks, astronomy nights, hikes, owl pellet workshops, morning bird walks and counts, insect and arthropod explorations, family nature walks, mistletoe and plant walks, sunrise and sunset walks, mushroom searches, tracking for kids, and more!
The Nature Reserve also offers seasonal indoor workshops highlighting specific wildlife: cougars, toads and frogs, snakes, and coyotes to name a few. Join us, you are sure to have fun and learn something too!