Connect. Experience. Protect.

Meet San Diego’s Nature Connection

Enjoy San Diego’s one-of-a-kind natural wonders, from marshlands to a famous slot canyon. Convenient to America’s Finest City, you can explore nature anytime.

Nature Collective connects lands and hiking trails, provides experiences for people to fall in love with nature, and protects the beauty all around us. We’re a nonprofit that stewards lands like the San Elijo Lagoon – and offers engaging events for one and all.

We think inclusively and diversely when serving those growing up devoid of nature, those who remember nature and want to connect back to it, and those who already have an affinity with nature. We envision a world where everyone experiences, connects with, and protects nature.

Connect

Join your community at the Nature Collective
Discovery Tour | July 4
04

Jul

Discovery Tour | July 4

1.5 Hours

Join us on a guided tour to discover the beauty of San Elijo Lagoon, where fresh water meets salt water…

Learn More
Volunteer Restoration Event | July 8
08

Jul

Volunteer Restoration Event | July 8

3 hours

We need your help to restore precious habitats within the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and the surrounding areas. By…

Learn More
Wildlife Tour | July 11
11

Jul

Wildlife Tour | July 11

2 Hours

Mid-summer is a laid-back vacation in San Elijo. We may watch ducks taking a leisurely dip at the edge of…

Learn More

Experience

Discover lagoon hikes in San Diego & more
  • Hike the Nature Center Loop Trail

    45 minutes. Easy.

  • N. Rios Trail (West)

  • Stay in the Loop

    Sign up for email updates, including trail openings/closures, new event announcements, and more.

Protect

Learn about our latest restoration projects
San Elijo Lagoon Restoration Project

The San Elijo Lagoon Restoration, called Reviving Your Wetlands, is one of the largest restoration projects in California.

Learn More
Tidal Circulation

We ensure nearly year-round tidal circulation within the San Elijo Lagoon to maintain the health of the ecosystem. 

Learn More
Habitat Restoration

We monitor and remove invasive plants, and revegetate our lands with beautiful native plants so native wildlife can use them. 

Learn More