Activity Cards

Spend your morning planting Coast Live Oak seedlings within a beautiful oak woodland in OC Parks’ Baker Canyon.

Help us restore a beautiful area in Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park’s Baker Meadow. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Snake chaps, gloves, and tools will be provided; please feel free to bring your own if you have them. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, close-toed shoes, and sun protection. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards such as rattlesnakes, which are occasionally seen here.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures in order to participate:

• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
• You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Your journey begins with an exclusive, up-close introduction to the Education Ambassadors of the Orange County Bird of Prey Center—a dedicated wildlife rehabilitation organization that rescues and releases injured owls, eagles, hawks, and falcons. These remarkable birds, unable to return to the wild due to injuries or behavioral challenges, now serve as ambassadors for their species. You’ll have the rare opportunity to observe them up close, learn about their unique adaptations and hunting styles, and, of course, snap some incredible photos!

Next, hop into a 4-wheel drive vehicle for a scenic 9-mile tour through the stunning, secluded Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. Along the way, we’ll pause to soak in panoramic views, capture memorable photos, and keep an eye out for wild raptors soaring overhead.

Our adventure culminates at The Sinks, often called the “Grand Canyon of Orange County.” Here, we’ll enjoy a delicious box lunch surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The highlight of the day? One lucky participant will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to release a rehabilitated raptor back into the wild—an awe-inspiring moment that everyone will get to witness.

This is a rare and extraordinary experience you won’t want to miss!

For registration, visit the Orange County Bird of Prey Center

*This program takes place at the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, 2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660*

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to find their own paths within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources.

Participants will explore the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge.

Please note that the program content is tailored for ages 7-12. Younger siblings are welcome to join, but the badges and activities will be reserved for those that fit within the designated age range.

Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. Additionally, this program is entirely outside, so please plan accordingly.

The program and parking are free. Inclement weather will cancel the program.

Advance registration is required.