Upcoming Events
at Nature Collective
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 2026November 2026
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.
Join CEO Jennifer Bright and key Nature Collective staff for Coffee + Connections. Please register below and enjoy this casual meet-and-greet, open-house-style event, where you can connect with key staff, learn about our programs and project updates, and meet others who share your passion for protecting nature.
With autumn in the air, layers of clothing 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.
Volunteers Elizabeth Venrick + Mark Jenne will lead your nature experience.
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.
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!
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!
