Education Programs.

Not all of the programs listed here are available at every State Park. Download the pdf file for a full listings. You can also visit the visit the CCNHA Web Site for location, times and availablity for School Programs and Nature Walks

Junior Ranger Programs – “Junior Rangers” is a statewide educational program in which children aged 7 to 12 may participate. The program emphasizes stewardship of park resources and connects park resource issues to global concerns.

Junior Camping Program
The Junior Ranger Progam is a special program for kids that provides the chance to partake in a variety of fun and educational nature-oriented activities at San Simeon, Morro Bay, Montaña de oro, Pismo Beach and Oceano Campground.

Natural History Field Trips
Programs, tours, or demonstrations relating to natural history themes are presented to school groups that arrange their park visit in advance. Central Coast Natural History Association School Program and State Parks offers many school programs here on the Central Coast. Visit the CCNHA Web Site for location, times and availablity.

Cultural Heritage Field Trips
Students learn first-hand about California’s rich cultural heritage by visiting state historic parks. Tours, programs, and demonstrations are provided to school groups by parkstaff.

Environmental Studies Programs
These offer school children a park experience that explores the interaction between people and their environment. Students learn about earlier cultures and lifestyles, and use this knowledge to recreate elements of the culture or era being studied.

Environmental Living Programs
These are similar to environmental studies programs but include an overnight stay at the park. Both programs incorporate demonstrations, hands-on activities, and follow-up student assignments.

Hearst Castle® School Tours
The School Tours offered by Hearst Castle are curriculum focused and supported by a teacher resource packet that provides pre-visit background material and exercises as well as post-visit activities. The tours last approximately one hour and forty-five minutes including the bus trip to and from the hilltop. For more information on Hearst Castle's School Tour visit the web site, or to make a reservation, please call (805) 927-6811.

Adventures with Nature Walks
Everyone is welcome, but no dogs, please. All times are approximate. Bad weather cancels outdoor activities.  Click on "info" for more information about the adventure listed. For a schedule of walks and times please visit Central Coast Natural History Association Web Site.

Litter-Getter Programs – “Litter-Getters” is a program that individually engages children in trashcollecting activities while it explains the environmental value of acting responsibly in parks.

Junior Lifeguard Programs – These teach young park visitors aged 8 to 15 about water safety and
aquatic natural history.