Visitation and exploration of The Nature Reserve is managed by The Reserve Connection. The Reserve Connection is a public 501(c) (3) non-profit, that serves to provide opportunities to the community to visit and enjoy The Nature Reserve. Through the many hikes, walks, astronomy programs, family events, and volunteer opportunities offered, visitors can discover and learn about the importance of the habitat reserve.
Upcoming Events
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public
Apr|26|2025-04-26
FOR PUBLIC
Tuesday Afternoon Open Access on Chiquita Ridge
Free | 10 and up | Moderate-Strenuous
2:00 - 5:00 PM
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99
residents
Apr|29|2025-04-29
FOR PUBLIC
Air Bird & Bug Interpretive Hike at Ranch Camp
$5 | 6 and up | Easy - Moderate
9:00 - 10:30 AM
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99
public
May|3|2025-05-03
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99
public
May|6|2025-05-06
FOR PUBLIC
Tuesday Afternoon Open Access on Chiquita Ridge
Free | 10 and up | Moderate-Strenuous
2:00 - 5:00 PM
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99
residents
May|6|2025-05-06
FOR PUBLIC
Watershed Divide Hike in Verdugo Canyon
Free | 12 & up | Moderate - Strenuous
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
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99
residents
May|10|2025-05-10
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99
public
May|10|2025-05-10
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99
residents
May|13|2025-05-13
FOR PUBLIC
Tuesday Afternoon Open Access on Chiquita Ridge
Free | 10 and up | Moderate-Strenuous
2:00 - 5:00 PM
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99
residents
May|13|2025-05-13
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99
volunteer
May|14|2025-05-14
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99
public
May|17|2025-05-17
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99
residents
May|18|2025-05-18
FOR PUBLIC
Tuesday Afternoon Open Access on Chiquita Ridge
Free | 10 and up | Moderate-Strenuous
2:00 - 5:00 PM
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99
residents
May|20|2025-05-20
FOR PUBLIC
Tuesday Afternoon Open Access on Chiquita Ridge
Free | 10 and up | Moderate-Strenuous
2:00 - 5:00 PM
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99
residents
May|27|2025-05-27
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99
public
May|31|2025-05-31
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99
public
Jun|1|2025-06-01
FOR PUBLIC
Summer Day Camp: Outdoor Explorers!
$225-$250/4-day week | 6-11 years | Easy-Moderate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
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99
public
Jun|9|2025-06-09
FOR PUBLIC
Summer Day Camp: Nature Artists!
$225-$250/4-day week | 6-11 years | Easy-Moderate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
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99
public
Jun|16|2025-06-16
FOR PUBLIC
Summer Day Camp: California Animal Adventures!
$225-$250/4-day week | 6-11 years | Easy-Moderate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
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public
Jun|23|2025-06-23
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99
residents
Jun|29|2025-06-29
Rancho Mission Viejo Resident Only Events:
- Some events are exclusively for residents of Rancho Mission Viejo.
- Registration for these events require proof of a current address in Rancho Mission Viejo.
All Events Specify A Minimum Age For Participation:
- Six (6) is the minimum age for most Nature Reserve programs.
- Refer to specific event listing for details.
- Be sure to review our policies.
Pre-Registration Required For All Programs:
- Contact us for large groups or to arrange a special group outing.
- Your registration enables us to contact you about program changes or cancellations. Please see our policy on Cancellations and Refunds.
- All visitors to The Nature Reserve must present a signed release waiver upon entry to the property. Families may submit a single form, as long as all entrants are identified on the form. Waivers are also available at the event.
Soar to new heights, play games, meet animals, enjoy the outdoors, be inspired, and make great memories at the annual Earth Day Festival at The Pavilion!
Click Register for more information. Registration NOT required.
This event is rain or shine!
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April 26, 2025, 2:00PM - 6:00PM
WHERE
The Pavilion
2 Tierno Road, Rancho Mission Viejo
This is a strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Strenuous
Trail Length: 2.2 miles (one way)
Ages: Recommended 10 and up
Open Access events are for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only
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April 29, 2025, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
WHERE
Chiquita Ridge
Join us at The Nature House at Ranch Camp in Rancho Mission Viejo for our Air Bird & Bug hike! We'll start by learning about how you can help make your house and yard friendlier to the birds and insects that migrate to and through your neighborhood. Then head out on a guided hike along the trails around Ranch Camp, to learn more about some of our wildlife tourists.
Interpretation Level: High
Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate
Trail Length: 1.1 miles
Ages: 6 and up
WHEN
May 3, 2025, 9:00 - 10:30 AM
WHERE
Ranch Camp, Rienda
Join Rosy the snake and Buckwheat the tortoise for a fun morning at The Nature House. We'll be reading a nature-themed book, playing games, and exploring the Nature House at Ranch Camp.
Ages: All (Recommended 3-5) w/accompanying adult
show moreWHEN
May 6, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
WHERE
The Nature House at Ranch Camp in Rienda, Rancho Mission Viejo
This is a strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Strenuous
Trail Length: 2.2 miles (one way)
Ages: Recommended 10 and up
Open Access events are for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only
show moreWHEN
May 6, 2025, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
WHERE
Chiquita Ridge
Explore new areas of The Nature Reserve on this guided hike through Verdugo Canyon and our local watersheds. This moderate to strenuous hike will travel from the bottom of Verdugo Creek to the top of the watershed divide. Standing at the divide between the San Juan Creek watershed and the San Mateo Watershed, we'll take in panoramic views of the Santa Ana Mountains, Pacific Ocean and Cleveland National Forest.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Strenuous
Trail Length: 5 miles (round trip)
Ages: Recommended 12 and up
WHEN
May 10, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
WHERE
Verdugo Canyon
Reconnect with Mother Earth this Mother's Day weekend. Slow down and take a mindful walk through our native oak woodlands. Connect with nature through the practice of Forest Bathing - a (fully clothed) slow walk through the woods to immerse yourself in nature and sit quietly as you "bathe" yourself in sunlight breaking through a canopy of oak trees. Through a series of invitations, participants may practice sitting quietly using mindful observation, and how to use their senses to explore the surrounding environment. Spend time among the trees, breathing deep, and building a deeper connection with Nature.
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May 10, 2025, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
WHERE
The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Get muddy and messy creating mudpies and dirt cakes, explore nature looking for birds and bugs, or enjoy a book together under an oak tree - your choice. Mud Kitchen Mornings are opportunity for RMV kids (and their accompanying adults) to enjoy a morning on Nature Reserve Headquarters grounds playing in our natural playscape. This is an open access style event for residents to visit anytime during the event time. There are no activities planned but visitors are welcome to explore and play together in this fun outdoor setting.
show moreWHEN
May 13, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
WHERE
The Nature Reserve Headquarters
This is a strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Strenuous
Trail Length: 2.2 miles (one way)
Ages: Recommended 10 and up
Open Access events are for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only
show moreWHEN
May 13, 2025, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
WHERE
Chiquita Ridge
Please join us for Volunteer Orientation and Training!
This fun and informational orientation is the first step in joining us as an official Nature Reserve Volunteer. Learn about The Nature Reserve's history, philosophy and mission, as well as skills for working with the public. Meet other volunteers and learn how you can help preserve Nature Reserve lands through conservation and education.
Ages: Adult, 18 and up
Thank you for expressing interest in volunteering for The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo.
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May 14, 2025, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
WHERE
The Ranch House in Rancho Mission Viejo
Volunteer to spend a few hours in beautiful surroundings helping The Nature Reserve. Join the crew dedicated to protecting our native ecosystems by clearing trails, restoring habitats, and eliminating weeds. Volunteer efforts make an impact! (BRING: Work gloves if you have them).
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ages: 10 and up (Volunteers under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.)
WHEN
May 17, 2025, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Animals with colors like brown and green, use their camouflage patterns to not be seen! Play games and make a craft to learn how camouflage coloring helps our local animals survive in their environment. Meet a live animal that has camouflage colors to blend in with their habitat.
show moreWHEN
May 18, 2025, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
WHERE
Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy
This is a strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Strenuous
Trail Length: 2.2 miles (one way)
Ages: Recommended 10 and up
Open Access events are for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only
show moreWHEN
May 20, 2025, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
WHERE
Chiquita Ridge
This is a strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate - Strenuous
Trail Length: 2.2 miles (one way)
Ages: Recommended 10 and up
Open Access events are for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only
show moreWHEN
May 27, 2025, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
WHERE
Chiquita Ridge
Enjoy an evening outdoors, as you gaze into the night sky, learn the constellations, and peer through the telescopes of our guest astronomers. The Nature Reserve astronomers are all volunteers who enthusiastically share their telescopes and expert sky knowledge with you. (What to bring: warm clothing, flashlight with red cellophane/lens to reduce light pollution, binoculars, optional beach chair.)
Interpretation Level: High
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ages: 8 and up
WHEN
May 31, 2025, 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
WHERE
The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Admire the expansive views on a moderately-paced, 3.5 mile morning hike along North Ridge and Middle Ridge trails on the Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy.
Interpretation Level: Low
Difficulty Level: Moderate with some strenuous hills
Ages: 10 and up
Please note: participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4:00 pm on Friday, May 30.
show moreWHEN
June 1, 2025, 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
WHERE
Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy
Step into adventure and become an outdoor explorer! Identify wildlife clues on the trail and meet our live animal ambassadors. Build shelters and practice kid-friendly outdoor skills to be safe and smart on the trail.
Campers embark on daily nature adventures as they explore trails, outdoor play areas, trees, and more! Each week features our live animal ambassadors. Camp topics are reinforced through games, art projects, and hands-on activities. In addition to scheduled activities, campers are given supervised free time to experience nature on their own.
Dates: June 9 - June 12, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Drop off begins 8:30 am)
Ages: 6-11
On Thursday only, camp will be held offsite at The Campout & The Pavilion playground in Rancho Mission Viejo.
For a discounted price on a week of camp, become an annual Nature Reserve Family Supporter and enjoy benefits such as free and reduced costs to our Events all year long! Visit our Donate page to learn more.
Please read our Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Campers must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on Friday, June 6.
show moreWHEN
June 9, 2025, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
WHERE
The Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy
Craft colorful works of art inspired by the outdoors, using natural and recycled materials. Create your own nature art notebook and learn to draw native animals with our own animal ambassadors. Take a color walk to San Juan Creek to discover a rainbow of colors in nature!
Campers embark on daily nature adventures as they explore trails, outdoor play areas, trees, and more! Each week features our live animal ambassadors. Camp topics are reinforced through games, art projects, and hands-on activities. In addition to scheduled activities, campers are given supervised free time to experience nature on their own.
Dates: June 16 - June 19, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Drop off begins 8:30 am)
Ages: 6-11
On Thursday only, camp will be held offsite at The Hangout & The Backyard playground in Rancho Mission Viejo.
For a discounted price on a week of camp, become an annual Nature Reserve Family Supporter and enjoy benefits such as free and reduced costs to our Events all year long! Visit our Donate page to learn more.
Please read our Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Campers must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on Friday, June 13.
show moreWHEN
June 16, 2025, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
WHERE
The Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy
Adventure awaits as we discover the amazing animals around us! Meet our California animal ambassadors, including locally rescued hawks and owls from the OC Bird of Prey Center. Investigate local wildlife using magnifying glasses, binoculars and sweep nets during daily adventures on the trail!
Campers embark on daily nature adventures as they explore trails, outdoor play areas, trees, and more! Each week features our live animal ambassadors. Camp topics are reinforced through games, art projects, and hands-on activities. In addition to scheduled activities, campers are given supervised free time to experience nature on their own.
Dates: June 23 - June 26, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Drop off begins 8:30 am)
Ages: 6-11
On Thursday only, camp will be held offsite at The Nature House & Boulder Pond playground in Rancho Mission Viejo.
For a discounted price on a week of camp, become an annual Nature Reserve Family Supporter and enjoy benefits such as free and reduced costs to our Events all year long! Visit our Donate page to learn more.
Please read our Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Campers must be registered or on the waitlist by 4:00 pm on Friday, June 20.
show moreWHEN
June 23, 2025, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Drop off begins 8:30 AM)
WHERE
The Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy
Get ready for summer at The Nature Reserve as we play outdoor games and make a craft perfect for summertime adventures on the go! Meet live animals on a family-friendly walk to San Juan Creek and discover how animals stay cool in the hot, dry summer season.
Interpretation Level: Medium
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ages: All
Participants must be registered or on the wait list by 4:00 pm on Friday, June 27th. Spaces are limited. Please register all attendees, adults and children.
show moreWHEN
June 29, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
WHERE
Nature Reserve Headquarters
33101 Ortega Hwy