Visitation and exploration of The Nature Reserve is managed by The Reserve Connection. The Reserve Connection is a public 501(c) (3) non-profit, that serves to provide opportunities to the community to visit and enjoy The Nature Reserve. Through the many hikes, walks, astronomy programs, family events, and volunteer opportunities offered, visitors can discover and learn about the importance of the habitat reserve.
Upcoming Events
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public
Apr|10|2026-04-10
FOR PUBLIC
Spring Sunrise Hike
$5-$10, Free/Supporter | 10 and up | Moderate-strenuous
6:00 AM - 8:30 AM
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99
public
Apr|11|2026-04-11
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99
public
Apr|14|2026-04-14
FOR PUBLIC
Celebrate Earth Week! Trail Stewardship
Free | 10 and up | Moderate-Strenuous
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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99
volunteer
Apr|18|2026-04-18
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99
residents
Apr|21|2026-04-21
FOR PUBLIC
Celebrate Earth Week! Volunteer Orientation and Training
Free | 18 and Up
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
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99
volunteer
Apr|22|2026-04-22
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99
public
Apr|25|2026-04-25
FOR PUBLIC
Celebrate Earth Week! Family Walk to Mother Oak
$5 | 6 and up | Easy-Moderate
9:30AM - 11:30AM
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99
public
Apr|26|2026-04-26
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99
volunteer
May|9|2026-05-09
FOR PUBLIC
From Rancho to Reserve-The History of The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo
Free | 8 and up | Indoor Presentation
7:00pm - 8:30pm
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99
public
May|13|2026-05-13
FOR PUBLIC
Weekend Open Access, Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Free | All Ages (Recommended 6+) | Easy-Moderate
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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99
residents
May|17|2026-05-17
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99
public
Jun|6|2026-06-06
FOR PUBLIC
Summer Day Camp: California Creatures!
$225-$250/4-day week | 6-11 years | Easy-Moderate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
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99
public
Jun|15|2026-06-15
FOR PUBLIC
Summer Day Camp: Outdoor Engineers!
$225-$250/4-day week | 6-11 years | Easy-Moderate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
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99
public
Jun|22|2026-06-22
FOR PUBLIC
Summer Day Camp: Savvy Survivalists!
$225-$250/4-day week | 6-11 years | Easy-Moderate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
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99
public
Jun|29|2026-06-29
Rancho Mission Viejo Resident Only Events:
- Some events are exclusively for residents of Rancho Mission Viejo.
- Registration for these events require proof of a current address in Rancho Mission Viejo.
All Events Specify A Minimum Age For Participation:
- Six (6) is the minimum age for most Nature Reserve programs.
- Refer to specific event listing for details.
- Be sure to review our policies.
Pre-Registration Required For All Programs:
- Contact us for large groups or to arrange a special group outing.
- Your registration enables us to contact you about program changes or cancellations. Please see our policy on Cancellations and Refunds.
- All visitors to The Nature Reserve must present a signed release waiver upon entry to the property. Families may submit a single form, as long as all entrants are identified on the form. Waivers are also available at the event.
Discover California native wildflowers with botanist and author, Bob Allen. Bob will discuss common wildflowers blooming on the Nature Reserve and some of the butterflies that depend on them. Admission includes light bites, one drink ticket (beer, wine, or wildflower themed cocktail), and non-alcoholic beverages. Additional beverages available for sale.
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April 10, 2026, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
WHERE
The Canyon House, Rancho Mission Viejo
Admire the expansive views on a 3.5 mile morning hike along North Ridge and Middle Ridge trails on the Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate with some strenuous hills
Ages: 10 and up
WHEN
April 11, 2026, 6:00 AM - 8:30 AM
WHERE
The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Join Rosy the snake and Buckwheat the tortoise for a fun morning at The Nature House. We'll be reading a nature-themed book, playing games, and exploring the Nature House at Ranch Camp.
Ages: All (Recommended 3-5) w/accompanying adult
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April 14, 2026, 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
WHERE
Ranch Camp at Rienda in Rancho Mission Viejo
Volunteer to spend a few hours in beautiful surroundings helping The Nature Reserve. Join the crew dedicated to protecting our native ecosystems by clearing trails, restoring habitats, and eliminating weeds. Volunteer efforts make an impact! (BRING: Work gloves if you have them).
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ages: 10 and up (Volunteers under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.)
Participants must be registered or on the waitlist by Friday, April 18 at 4:00 pm.
show moreWHEN
April 18, 2026, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Get muddy and messy creating mudpies and dirt cakes, explore nature looking for birds and bugs, or enjoy a book together under an oak tree - your choice. Mud Kitchen Mornings are opportunity for RMV kids (and their accompanying adults) to enjoy a morning on Nature Reserve Headquarters grounds playing in our natural playscape. This is an open access style event for residents to visit anytime during the event time. There are no activities planned but visitors are welcome to explore and play together in this fun outdoor setting.
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April 21, 2026, 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
WHERE
The Nature Reserve Headquarters
The Volunteer Orientation and Training is a fun, informational meeting to learn more about the volunteer opportunities available through The Nature Reserve.
Learn about The Nature Reserve's history, philosophy and mission, as well as skills for working with the public. Meet other volunteers and learn how you can help preserve Nature Reserve lands through conservation and education.
Ages: 18 and up
We look forward to having you volunteer with us!
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April 22, 2026, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
WHERE
Ranch House in Rancho Mission Viejo
Enjoy an evening outdoors, as you gaze into the night sky, learn the constellations, and peer through the telescopes of our guest astronomers. The Nature Reserve astronomers are all volunteers who enthusiastically share their telescopes and expert sky knowledge with you. (What to bring: warm clothing, flashlight with red cellophane/lens to reduce light pollution, binoculars, optional beach chair.)
Interpretation Level: High
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ages: 8 and up
WHEN
April 25, 2026, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
WHERE
The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Celebrate Earth Week on a family-friendly walk outdoors to the Mother Oak tree and along Gato road trail. Learn how together we can protect habitats for plants and animals on The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. Create a recycled nature craft and say hello to a live animal ambassador.
Interpretation Level: Medium
Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate
Ages: 6 and up
Participants must be registered or on the wait list by Saturday, April 25 at 4:00 pm. Directions and map sent in confirmation email after registration is completed.
show moreWHEN
April 26, 2026, 9:30AM - 11:30AM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Volunteer to spend a few hours in beautiful surroundings helping The Nature Reserve. Join the crew dedicated to protecting our native ecosystems by clearing trails, restoring habitats, and eliminating weeds. Volunteer efforts make an impact! (BRING: Work gloves if you have them).
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ages: 10 and up (Volunteers under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.)
Participants must be registered or on the waitlist by Friday, May 8 at 4:00 pm.
show moreWHEN
May 9, 2026, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
FOR PUBLIC
From Rancho to Reserve-The History of The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo
REGISTER
Come hear how what was once known as "California's Greatest Rancho" has become a habitat reserve dedicated to the conservation of native species. Learn the colorful history of Rancho Mission Viejo and the handshake that started it all.
Ages: 8 and up
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May 13, 2026, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
WHERE
The Canyon House, Rancho Mission Viejo
FOR RANCHO MISSION VIEJO RESIDENTS
Weekend Open Access, Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
REGISTER
Explore the beauty of The Nature Reserve at your own pace on the Sycamore Loop, Shady Canyon and North Ridge trails! Participants explore by hiking or walking through designated trails available for self-guided access. Take time to explore spring wildflowers and beautiful scenery on the Richard & Donna O'Neill Conservancy.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate. You choose the route.
Ages: All. Recommended 6 and up.
Please select approximate arrival time for registration. All participants must exit by event end time, regardless of arrival time.
Please refer to confirmation email for event directions and map to trailhead.
WHEN
May 17, 2026, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Explore the North Ridge and Shady Canyon trails! Hike along North Ridge trail while taking in sweeping views of the Nature Reserve and the expansive open space of the Ranch lands beyond, before heading back through the oaks and grasslands of Shady Canyon.
Interpretation Level: Medium
Difficulty Level: Moderate. 2 mph pace.
Trail Type and Length: Single track. 2 miles.
Ages: 8 and up
Participants must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on June 5.
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June 6, 2026, 9:00-11:00 AM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
California is home to many different animals from the mountains to the desert to the ocean. Meet live animals, make animal-themed crafts, and explore cool critters on outdoor adventures!
Campers embark on daily nature adventures as they explore trails, outdoor play areas, trees, and more! Each week features our live animal ambassadors. Camp topics are reinforced through games, art projects, and hands-on activities. In addition to scheduled activities, campers are given supervised free time to experience nature on their own.
Dates: June 15 - June 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Drop off begins 8:30 am)
Ages: 6-11
On Thursday only, camp will be held offsite at The Campout & The Pavilion playground in Rancho Mission Viejo.
For a discounted price on a week of camp, become an annual Nature Reserve Family Supporter and enjoy benefits such as free and reduced costs to our Events all year long! Visit our Donate page to learn more.
Please read our Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Campers must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on Sunday, June 14.
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June 15, 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
WHERE
Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy
Use your imagination to design, create, and build projects to help wildlife. Let nature inspire your designs as we look at how plants and animals survive and thrive in their environments.
Campers embark on daily nature adventures as they explore trails, outdoor play areas, trees, and more! Each week features our live animal ambassadors. Camp topics are reinforced through games, art projects, and hands-on activities. In addition to scheduled activities, campers are given supervised free time to experience nature on their own.
Dates: June 22 - June 25, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Drop off begins 8:30 am)
Ages: 6-11
On Thursday only, camp will be held offsite at The Hangout & The Backyard playground in Rancho Mission Viejo.
For a discounted price on a week of camp, become an annual Nature Reserve Family Supporter and enjoy benefits such as free and reduced costs to our Events all year long! Visit our Donate page to learn more.
Please read our Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Campers must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on Sunday, June 21.
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June 22, 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
WHERE
Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy
Get ready for outdoor adventures on the trail! Build shelters, bake a treat in your own solar oven and practice kid-friendly wilderness safety.
Campers embark on daily nature adventures as they explore trails, outdoor play areas, trees, and more! Each week features our live animal ambassadors. Camp topics are reinforced through games, art projects, and hands-on activities. In addition to scheduled activities, campers are given supervised free time to experience nature on their own.
Dates: June 29 - July 2, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Drop off begins 8:30 am)
Ages: 6-11
On Thursday only, camp will be held offsite at Ranch Camp and Boulder Pond playground in Rancho Mission Viejo.
For a discounted price on a week of camp, become an annual Nature Reserve Family Supporter and enjoy benefits such as free and reduced costs to our Events all year long! Visit our Donate page to learn more.
Please read our Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Campers must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on Sunday, June 28.
show moreWHEN
June 29, 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
WHERE
Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy