Natural habitat preservation in California

Welcome to Better Place Forests - Santa Cruz, a serene and enchanting natural sanctuary nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Los Gatos, California. Located on Buzzard Lagoon Road, our park offers a unique and peaceful setting where nature's beauty is preserved and celebrated. At Better Place Forests, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that connect people with nature. Our forest is meticulously maintained to provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely walk along our scenic trails, partake in a guided nature tour, or simply relax amidst the towering trees, Better Place Forests offers a perfect retreat for all nature enthusiasts.

Welcome to Hadley Gardens, a serene and educational park located at 655 Main Street, Ferndale, California. Nestled in the heart of Humboldt County, Hadley Gardens is a unique interpretive garden dedicated to showcasing the native vegetation from various local ecosystems. Our mission is to raise awareness of the importance of preserving open spaces and protecting fish and wildlife habitats. Join us for the grand opening ceremony on June 18th at 1 p.m. as we celebrate the culmination of several months of dedicated construction and landscaping efforts. This event is open to the public, and we invite you to explore the beauty and diversity of our local environment.

The Catalina Island Conservancy Trailhead is a store, tourist attraction, and travel agency located at 708 Crescent Avenue in Avalon, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and restoring the environment on Catalina Island, promoting ecologically sustainable communities, and creating a healthier future for the island and our Earth. As the oldest and largest private land trust in California, the Catalina Island Conservancy offers formal classroom lessons and non-formal outdoor experiences for nature-based engagement and experiential learning. Visitors can learn more about obtaining required permits, browse trail and island maps, and support the organization's efforts to save animal species on the verge of extinction and maintain unique habitats. The Catalina Island Restoration Project, undertaken by the Conservancy, aims to regenerate and safeguard the natural ecosystem, protect biodiversity, mitigate erosion, prevent wildfires, and create a sustainable environment for wildlife and humans.

Sycamore Valley Open Space South is a beautiful park located in Danville, California, United States. This serene and expansive open space offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature, go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the stunning surroundings. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful atmosphere, Sycamore Valley Open Space South is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to enjoy some outdoor activities, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of Sycamore Valley Open Space South today!

Diablo Foothills Regional Park is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1700 Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek, California. The park is open from 5am-10pm, with parking lot hours varying throughout the year. The park is a gateway to the beautiful parklands of Mount Diablo State Park and Walnut Creek Open Space, offering sweeping panoramas of the San Francisco Bay Region and rural grasslands. The park features diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, and a range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and nature study in the park's 1,060 acres. The Castle Rock Recreation Area within the park offers reservable group picnic areas and a swimming pool complex that is fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.

North Campus Open Space is a beautiful park located at Atlantic Court in Goleta, California. This serene and picturesque destination offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views, North Campus Open Space is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the fresh air, this park is a must-visit tourist attraction in the United States.

Urban Forest is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6711 Ellis Avenue in Huntington Beach, California. The institution recently received a generous donation from Chevron for the planting of 50 trees in Huntington Central Park. Visitors can celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the park in 2024 by helping to replace lost trees through donations. The Secret Garden within the park is now open to the public, and visitors can also enjoy the sight of Monarch Butterflies in November. The park is home to a variety of California-native plants and trees, and volunteers work tirelessly to maintain and enhance the green space. Visitors can support the Urban Forest through donations, volunteering, and shopping with Goodshop to contribute a percentage of purchases to HB Trees. The Huntington Beach Tree Society, a non-profit organization, has planted over 8,000 trees in and around the Urban Forest. Bird watchers can also enjoy observing various species in the expanding habitat of the park. For more information and to get involved, visit the Urban Forest website or contact jnagytree@aol.com.

The Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1900 Associated Road in Fullerton, California, United States. This serene oasis is home to a diverse collection of plant species, including rare and exotic plants from around the world. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, learn about sustainable gardening practices, and enjoy peaceful walks through the lush grounds. The Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

Tamarisk Park is a beautiful outdoor space located in Lake Forest, California, United States. This park offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and unwind. With lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Tamarisk Park is the perfect spot for families, friends, and individuals to spend quality time outdoors. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or let your kids play and explore, Tamarisk Park has something for everyone. Come visit Tamarisk Park and experience the beauty and tranquility of this wonderful outdoor institution.

Prospect Park is a beautiful 11.4-acre natural park located at 1352 Prospect Drive in Redlands, California. This popular tourist attraction features scenic trails, picnic facilities, and the Avice Meeker Sewall Theater, an outdoor amphitheater with seating for over 400 guests. The theater is the venue for the renowned Redlands Summer Theater Festival. Situated at the intersection of Cajon Street and Highland Avenue, Prospect Park is a serene oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for outdoor recreation and cultural events.

Monte Verde Park, located at 4626 Shadeway Road in Lakewood, California, is a true gem among park facilities in the area. The park features the stunning S. Mark Taper Foundation Vista Lodge, a 3,000 square-foot mountain lodge-inspired building with a great room, fireplace, and panoramic views of the park. The park also includes a landscaped amphitheater, fire ring, and a quarter-mile-long nature trail that takes visitors through various ecosystems such as an oak grove, dry creek, and fern dell. Originally established in 1971 as a modest four-acre park, Monte Verde Park has grown to become a popular destination for over 10,000 visitors each year. The park offers a range of outdoor experiences, camping opportunities, and recreational programs for the community to enjoy. With the support of state park funds, the S. Mark Taper Foundation, and grant funds from the L.A. County 1996 Park Bond Act, Monte Verde Park underwent a major renovation in 2001 to improve facilities and accessibility.

Mendocino Headlands State Park is a picturesque park located in Mendocino, California, surrounded by gentle trails, rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of sea arches and hidden grottos while hiking along the cliffs. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, surfing, and fishing, as well as opportunities to witness the spring wildflowers, fall colors, summer climate, and winter migration of grey whales. The Historic Ford House serves as the Visitors Center and museum, providing information on the park's history and hosting exhibits on local flora, fauna, and wildlife. Big River Beach, part of the park, offers a relaxing spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and playing in the surf. The park also hosts the Mendocino Music Festival, a popular event featuring a variety of musical performances. Admission to the park is free, and visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse habitats and wildlife corridors within Mendocino Headlands State Park.

Palomarin Field Station, operated by Point Blue Conservation Science (formerly known as Point Reyes Bird Observatory), is a renowned research facility located at 999 Mesa Road in Bolinas, California. This institution is dedicated to the study and conservation of birds and their habitats. Visitors can explore the station's grounds, learn about ongoing research projects, and even participate in bird banding demonstrations. With its stunning natural surroundings and educational opportunities, Palomarin Field Station is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers.

Palo Corona Regional Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Covering over 10,000 acres of rugged, spectacular countryside, this park is a haven for wildlife and plant species. The park was created through a major land conservation effort involving various organizations, ensuring that this beautiful landscape will be protected for generations to come. Visitors to Palo Corona Regional Park can explore diverse habitats, from the Carmel River to the mixed hardwood forests at the 3,000-foot Palo Corona Peak. The park is home to over 500 plant species, making it a botanist's paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts will also be thrilled by the chance to spot coastal trout, steelhead, rare amphibians, and protected raptors like the California condor.

Located at 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, the Point Vicente Interpretive Center is a must-visit museum and tourist attraction. Established in 1984, the center aims to showcase and interpret the unique features and history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. With a special emphasis on the Pacific gray whale, the center's exhibits provide insights into the natural and cultural history of the area. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the annual migration of the gray whales from December through April. The Interpretive Center, which was newly expanded in 2006, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The adjacent Lower Point Vicente Park, part of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, offers recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy from dawn to dusk. The park is also available for events such as weddings and receptions, with a picturesque ocean backdrop. For those interested in volunteering, Los Serenos de Point Vicente is the docent volunteer organization that offers training for leading tours and hikes in the area. To learn more about becoming a docent or to book a tour of the Sunset Room for an event, contact the center at 310-544-5375.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

Muir Woods National Monument, located in Mill Valley, California, is a park and tourist attraction where visitors can walk among old growth coast redwoods. These majestic trees cool their roots in the fresh water of Redwood Creek and reach their crowns towards the sun and fog. Protected as a National Monument since 1908, this primeval forest serves as both a refuge and a laboratory, showcasing our connection to the natural world. Visitors can explore the Redwood Renewal projects aimed at preserving and maintaining the health of Muir Woods for future generations. In 2023, experts reengineered parts of Redwood Creek to restore critical coho salmon habitat. Families with children ages 4 and up can participate in the Muir Woods Jr. Ranger program. The National Park Service encourages visitors to get involved in the planning efforts for the park and provides access to information about all 420 National Parks, including Muir Woods, through the Golden Gate app. Visitors can also watch videos in American Sign Language on the park's website. Come discover the beauty and significance of Muir Woods National Monument!

The Petaluma Wildlife Museum, located at 201 Fair Street in Petaluma, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. This museum is not your typical wildlife museum, as it offers a unique experience with its Adventure Center and Classroom Safari. Join us for a special event at the museum, where activities will be held from 2-6pm, including raffle baskets and silent auction items. Enjoy a delicious pasta dinner from 3-5pm in the Multipurpose room, included with your $20 ticket. This ticket also grants you access to explore the museum and meet the animals at Classroom Safari.

Friends of the Dunes is a non-profit organization located in Arcata, California, dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and diversity of coastal environments in northern California. Through community-supported education and stewardship programs, Friends of the Dunes works to educate and engage the public in conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the stunning coastal landscapes, learn about the local flora and fauna, and participate in hands-on stewardship activities. Help support their mission by joining their free environmental education and stewardship programs. Contact Friends of the Dunes at 220 Stamps Lane, Arcata, CA, 95518, or call 707-444-1397, or email info@friendsofthedunes.org.

The Arcata Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful park located on South I Street in Arcata, California, United States. This sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a serene environment to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. With its lush vegetation, winding trails, and tranquil ponds, the Arcata Bird Sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the avian world. Whether you're a seasoned birder or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Arcata Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world.

Freshwater Farms Reserve is a unique institution located at 5851 Myrtle Avenue in Eureka, California. This multifaceted facility serves as a food market, park, store, and tourist attraction all in one. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, enjoy a picnic by the freshwater pond, and shop for locally sourced produce and goods at the on-site store. The Reserve also offers educational tours and workshops on sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out in nature or a chance to learn more about agriculture, Freshwater Farms Reserve has something for everyone.

Navarro River Redwoods State Park is a stunning natural attraction located in Elk, California, United States. This park is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty of a redwood forest along the Navarro River. The park offers activities such as picnicking, swimming, camping, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can explore second growth redwood groves that stretch throughout the park, providing a habitat for wildlife such as raccoons, black-tail deer, and river-oriented birds. The park is also home to the Paul M. Dimmick Campground and Navarro Beach Campground, offering different camping experiences for visitors.

The San Diego Humane Society's Ramona Wildlife Center is a sanctuary located at 18740 Highland Valley Road in Ramona, California. This park is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife, providing a safe haven for animals in need. Visitors can observe a variety of native species in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts to protect these animals. The center also offers educational programs and volunteer opportunities for those interested in wildlife conservation. Come visit this beautiful park and support the important work being done to protect and preserve our local wildlife.

Iron Mountain Trailhead is a popular park and tourist attraction located in Poway, California. The trailhead serves as the starting point for the Iron Mountain Trail, a scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a challenging hike up the mountain, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and take in the natural beauty of the area. The trailhead is easily accessible from California State Route 67, making it a convenient destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Iron Mountain Trailhead is a must-visit destination for nature lovers in the Poway area.

Pacific Wildlife Care is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned wildlife in the central coast region of California. Located at 1387 Main Street in Morro Bay, this facility provides a safe haven for animals in need, offering medical treatment, rehabilitation, and educational programs to promote conservation and awareness of local wildlife. With a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, Pacific Wildlife Care works tirelessly to ensure the health and well-being of native species, ultimately striving to protect and preserve the natural environment for future generations.

McClures Beach Trailhead, located on Pierce Point Road in Inverness, California, offers a variety of hiking opportunities in the beautiful Point Reyes National Seashore. From peaceful Douglas-fir forests to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, hikers can explore diverse habitats and landscapes in one hike. It is important to have a trail map before starting your adventure, as trails may be closed for various reasons such as visitor safety or to protect endangered species. The park offers a range of trails for all levels of hikers, from short and easy strolls to more challenging routes. Visitors are reminded to respect trail closures and to be mindful of the park's diverse wildlife. With the park's trail crew working to improve trail conditions, hikers may encounter overgrown vegetation and are advised to check for ticks during and after their hike. For current trail advisories and closures, visitors can refer to the park's website. Whether you're looking for a quick adventure or a full day of hiking, McClures Beach Trailhead provides a gateway to the natural beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore.

Sacramento Splash is an institution located at 4426 Excelsior Road in Mather, California, United States. The organization is dedicated to connecting children with nature and the outdoors in order to foster a love and appreciation for the natural world. Through engaging and interactive programs, Splash aims to educate both teachers and students about the importance of preserving our environment and the benefits of connecting with nature. The institution offers hands-on learning experiences, field trips, and educational resources focused on water pollution prevention and the preservation of natural habitats. By providing these opportunities, Splash hopes to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards who will work towards protecting our planet for future generations.

The Mount Tamalpais Watershed is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 49 Sky Oaks Road in Fairfax, California, United States. This beautiful natural area is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities while exploring the pristine wilderness of the watershed. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, the Mount Tamalpais Watershed is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Crab Cove, located at 1200 McKay Avenue in Alameda, California, is a park institution offering a variety of educational and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The institution features the Doug Siden Visitor Center, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2019 and offers interactive exhibits showcasing the marine and shoreline life of San Francisco Bay. Visitors can explore an 800-gallon aquarium system, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the importance of preserving the marine environment. In addition to the Visitor Center, Crab Cove also offers a 2.5-mile Crown Memorial State Beach with sand dunes and a bicycle trail, perfect for swimming and cooling off during the summer months. The institution hosts naturalist-guided programs for school groups and other organized groups, as well as weekend programs for visitors to learn about Bay ecology and the local area.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, located in Felton, California, is a majestic park and tourist attraction nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can explore a 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees that have historical significance and offer spectacular scenery. The park offers activities such as hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping across its 4,650 acres of forested and open land. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, subject to availability and park rules. The park also features the Fall Creek Unit, a second-growth redwood forest with connecting trails for day use. Dogs are allowed in certain areas of the park, while bicycles are permitted on designated trails.