Events

Upcoming Events
at Nature Collective

Everyone is invited to join us for fun-and-informative events!

Anytime you’re looking for free things to do in San Diego, see what’s happening at Nature Collective. We offer free nature tours and family days. For other events, like a film screening, there’s an admission price that lets us offer these experiences.

Our activities are for anyone in town – from locals to visitors – and all ages.

September 2026

October 2026

November 2026

Volunteer Restoration Event | October 17

  • Saturday, October 17, 2026
  • 3 hours

We need your help to remove pampas grass. Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is a fast-growing invasive plant that harms our local lands. It spreads quickly, crowds out native plants, and uses a lot of groundwater. This hurts native birds, pollinators, and other wildlife by taking away their natural homes.

By removing this invasive plant, we can help restore natural water flow, support native coastal plants, and protect Southern California wildlife.

Help your community and nature by making a positive impact. Watch San Elijo Lagoon become healthier because of your actions. Plus, work with friendly neighbors and local conservation supporters who love the outdoors and care for the environment.

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Fall Festival | October 18

  • Sunday, October 18, 2026
  • 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 parade, 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!

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Volunteer Orientation | October 16

  • Friday, October 16, 2026
  • 3 hours

Join us for an upcoming Virtual Volunteer Orientation that lasts just three hours! Discover diverse volunteer roles, connect with passionate people, and learn how you can help conserve nature. Whether you’re restoring habitats, representing Nature Collective as a public ambassador, or helping in trail conservation, your efforts will make a meaningful impact. Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, make a difference, and be part of a community committed to protecting our natural world. Register now to start your rewarding journey! Your help connects people to nature’s beauty and inspires the protection of the natural world. We look forward to welcoming you!

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Have You Seen the Must-Sees?

Slot Canyon

Slot Canyon

See a true natural wonder – right in your county’s backyard

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San Elijo Lagoon

San Elijo Lagoon

Our nearly 1,000-acre reserve is a hiker’s dream

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Nature Center

Nature Center

Visit the friendly hub of the lagoon

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