We are offering a bird watching program on November 4th at 8:00am. Join us to learn all about life histories, behaviors, field markings, etc. On this 1-mile walk, we will make specific observations about characteristics that will certainly help us quack the case for many bird identifications! Let's plan to meet in the main parking lot of the park. Hope to see you there! Make sure to bring binoculars and a jacket so you're not murmuring under your breath "brrrrrrrrrrrrd."Reservation required; click here to RSVP.

Come learn about the story of Big Basin: past, present, and future while wandering under the guardian old-growth redwoods that have seen it all! This program is a 1 hour walk on a 0.6 mile, flat and easy trail designed for all ages. We will be covering the cultural history of this unique area including Indigenous groups, loggers, and preservationists. Of course, we will also discuss natural history such as the amazing coast redwood and the CZU Lightning Complex Fire as well as the future of our park.Participation is free, however, a $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival, or you can reserve a parking spot by clicking here. Please plan to meet at the temporary visitor center area located next to the restrooms at 10:45 am. Bring your own water or purchase water from Parking Kiosk as there is no running water, electricity or cell service at Big Basin!For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact [email protected] here to Register

Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on a guided walk through the Redwood Grove to talk about coast redwoods and to experience the forest together. On this 1-mile stroll, we will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc. and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!

2024 marks the 200th anniversary of the last remaining building of the Santa Cruz Mission, a structure built by the hands of Ohlone and Yokuts people under Spanish control. Join us to learn about building methods of the indigenous people here before European arrivals, and how this and other adobe buildings were constructed under Spanish control. Visitors will get a chance to participate in a hands-on activity in demonstration of each building style, and learn about how life changed for Native people at the mission.  All living history demonstrations are FREE, no reservation required. Call (831) 425-5849 or email [email protected] with questions.

Coast Redwoods offer a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! Every Saturday at 12:00pm, we are taking folks on a guided walk through the Redwood Grove to talk about coast redwoods and to experience the forest together. On this 1-mile stroll, we will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc. and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants. Click here to RSVP. Let's plan to meet in the front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!

Join us for a guided tour through Santa Cruz’s oldest building, the only remaining example of indigenous housing from the California Missions. Learn about the daily life of people who lived here, and ways in which the Spanish Mission system drastically impacted local native people’s culture and landscape. This is a FREE event open to the public, no reservations required. Call (831) 425-5849 for more information.  

Explore the ocean without getting your feet wet on this exciting tidepool tour! Join us for some fun in the sun and meet the incredible creatures of the Natural Bridges Tidepools. Prepare to walk over slippery rocks, through sand and up hills on this tour. Our tidepools are part of a Marine Protected Area which means that the animals are protected and cannot be touched, picked up, or moved.  Thank you for helping us preserve these animals and their home.Please Sign up ahead of time using this link: https://SantaCruzStateParks.as.me/?appointmentType=23305287Meet at the Visitor Center. Questions? Call 831-423-0871 or email [email protected] tour is free. Parking is $10 and can be used in any State Park that day. Event is made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.

Park: New Brighton State Beach Where: Day-use parking lot at 3pm. Parking: There is a $10vehicle day-use fee.What to Expect:Join us for a 2-mile round trip adventure from New BrightonState Beach to Capitola. We will encounter interesting geological features inthe coastal bluffs, 5-million-year-old whale fossils and tide pool creaturesexposed by the low tide. Sign up here https://santacruzstateparks.as.me/scheduleLength: 90 minutes.Ages: All arewelcome.Preparations:Please wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes, warm clothes, a bottle of water anda flashlight. Special Instructions:Rain and high waves cancel this event. Contact: [email protected] or call831-685-6444.Social Media:Follow us on Facebook and Instagram