About
The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo Programs offers school field trips, high school environmental science career meetings, recreational walks, interpretive hikes, astronomy nights, family programs, stewardship volunteer opportunities, and educational speaker series. School field trips are available for kindergarten through 5th grade, and the field trip requests are handled by Education and Public Programs Manager Bonnie McQuiston.
Programs
- School Field Trips — Kindergarten through 5th grade · In-person field trips occur on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays only between 9 am – 12 pm; lengths: Kindergarten 1.5 hours, 1st Grade 2.0 hours, 2nd–5th Grade 2.5–3.0 hours · $13–$15 per class
- High School Environmental Science Career Program — High school Juniors and Seniors · Saturdays, excluding holidays, from October 17, 2026 to January 15, 2027 · Application period runs from September 1 through September 27, 2026. Meetings are in-person at locations around The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. Final project due January 15, 2027.
- 20 Connections Challenge — Deadline is October 17, 2026. Participants who finish receive a choice of a 20th year Anniversary bandanna or carabiner and are invited to the 20th Year Celebration Party on October 24.
At a glance
- Ages: 3–17 years old
- Price range: $13–$15 per class
- Current session: High School Environmental Science Career Program (Oct 17–Jan 15, 2027)
- General schedule: Programs offered include recreational walks, interpretive hikes, astronomy nights, family programs, stewardship volunteer opportunities, educational speaker series and more.
About the provider
The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo is celebrating 20 years, with the source noting "Celebrating 20 Years of Natural Wonder & Wisdom" and "Celebrating our 20th Year Anniversary!" The Reserve’s mission is to preserve and enhance Reserve lands for ecological, educational, charitable, conservation, open space, scientific, and recreational uses. Community outreach includes local fairs and fiestas, county parks, green days, conservation-themed events, programs for Boy and Girl Scouts, conservation and civic organizations, and talks with hands-on activities at local libraries and school science nights.
- 20th Year Celebration Party — Invited celebration for those who finish the challenge
The Nature Reserve is managed by the Rancho Mission Viejo Land Trust. The location listed is San Juan Capistrano, CA. The application period for the High School Environmental Science Career Program runs from September 1 through September 27, 2026.
Last updated October 4, 2026.
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