Recreation

Outdoor Education

Explore Santa Cruz County's coastal redwood forests, meadows, and streams! Through the use of science inquiry, games, and other activities, participants learn ecological concepts and discover the interrelationships between plants and animals! 

Outdoor Education at County Parks

Learn about our outdoor education programs!

Nature & Science Camps

Do you have a budding naturalist or backyard explorer? Perhaps a science sleuth or tech fanatic? Check out some of County Park’s nature & science camps! Taking place at County parks and open spaces, nature camp participants will awaken their inner ecologist and learn to become stewards of the land by uncovering local ecosystems and learning about Santa Cruz County's diverse plants and wildlife. We encourage your child's inquisitive nature and teach them how to conduct their own research in the fields of chemistry, biology, physics, botany and so much more!

Pinto Lake County Park

Learn more about the Outdoor Education and Interpretive Programs at Pinto Lake County Park in Watsonville!

Quail Hollow Ranch County Park

Learn more about the Outdoor Education and Interpretive Programs at Quail Hollow Ranch County Park in Felton!

Get Involved with Outdoor Education Programs

Click below for current classes and camps within Santa Cruz County Parks

How to Register for Camps Online
  • Create an account on ActiveNet.
  • Navigate to the Activities tab in the menu.
  • Select Nature & Science Camps.
  • Register for your desired program and complete payment.
  • Thank you for choosing to participate in County Parks programs!
How to Book a Field Trip
  • We are excited to welcome schools groups, youth groups, scouts and more 
  • If you are interested, please call our recreation staff at (831) 454-7941, or email us at rec@scparks.com.

Contact Us

Phone:

(831) 454-7901 (General)

(831) 454-7941 (Registrations)

Monday – Friday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except holidays

Our physical office is open, but staff availability is limited.