Upcoming Events
at Nature Collective

Wildlife Tour | October 11

• Saturday, October 11, 2025
• 2 Hours

With autumn in the air, sweaters come out, and we seek the vibrant fall colors of golden cottonwoods and rose-colored pickleweed. Autumn is the perfect time to explore. We may search prickly pear cactus for cochineal, a tiny insect that produces the brilliant red dye we call carminic acid, used to brighten everything from lipstick to yogurt to artists’ paints. We hope to see you there!

Weather permitting. Wildlife is unpredictable. There is no guarantee of what you will see.

Weather permitting. Wildlife is unpredictable. There is no guarantee of what you will see.

Volunteers Elizabeth Venrick + Mark Jenne will lead your nature experience.

Discovery Tour | October 4

• Saturday, October 04, 2025
• 1.5 Hours

Discover the beauty of San Elijo Lagoon: where fresh water and saltwater meet and mix, migratory and resident birds share a sanctuary, and many animals find a home.

This guided tour will inspire all to watch and listen for various birds that rest in – and fly across – the salt marsh and mudflats. No matter the season, you can enjoy, photograph, and identify a host of native plants. Our Nature Center Loop Trail is accessible, providing fun for all.

Volunteer Emmy Garnica leads your nature experience.

Volunteer Restoration Event | October 18

• Saturday, October 18, 2025
• 3 hours

We need your help to restore precious habitats within the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and the surrounding areas. By removing invasive plants and helping grow native plants indigenous to the area, you will support a more balanced ecosystem.

Fall Festival | October 19

• Sunday, October 19, 2025
• 3 Hours

Get ready for an exciting and family-friendly Fall Festival full of adventure and discovery! Don’t miss your chance to explore nature’s amazing and quirky creatures—trust us, they’re not as spooky as they seem. Dive into the fun by joining our exciting costume contest, get creative with hands-on nature crafts, and experience live animal encounters that will wow everyone.

Plus, explore the fascinating Nature Collective Discovery Booths, with highlights including:

• Native plants — learn how some of San Diego’s most unique and bizarre plants have incredible tricks to survive our hot summers, from poking leaves to delightful scents.
• Tide pools — discover the cool, slimy, and mysterious ocean creatures hiding among rocky shores and beaches. Fall low tides reveal these underwater wonders waiting to be explored!

And that’s not all—enjoy Face Painting and bounce your way into fun!

Sponsored by San Diego Parks and Recreation and supported by Nature Collective, this event is perfect for nature lovers and families alike. Remember to bring reusable bottles and cups to help us keep the event eco-friendly.

Come explore, learn, and have a blast with us!