Morro Bay State Parks Museum of Natural History
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Are you looking for something to do this month? Check these possibilities for some great outdoor fun.
Adventures With Nature Outings for July
July 4, Thu., 1:00 pm Fun at the Seashore! Join us for a variety of activities such as a clam dig, whale blubber activity, sand are, sorting sea shells, comparing marine mammals, tracks and scat and more. Meet at the end of Grand Avenue at the beach entrance in Grover Beach. Family Event, (E), 2 hours. (Family) 2 hours
July 5, Fri., 9:00 am Exploring Shifting Sands Learn about how sand is formed, and how wind and waves constantly work to reshape the beach. Walk along the beach and discover how a wide variety of organisms, both between the sand grains and on the surface of the sand, have adapted to this challenging environment. Heading north on HWY 1, turn left at the Yerba Buena stoplight and follow the road to Morro Strand State Beach. Meet at the entrance kiosk. Dress in layers and wear beach shoes. Bring water, binoculars and camera. (E) 2 hours, 0.5 miles
July 5, Fri., 9:00 am Work Out Hike Bloody Nose, Sandspit, Beach Loop 5 miles, 700 foot elevation gain, 2.5 hours. From the Hazard Reef Parking lot we head up to the Bloody Nose Trail and find our way to the Sandspit Trail leading to the beach. Return is along the shore to the Hazard Reef trail back to the parking lot. Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection: bring water, snack, and hiking poles if desired. There may be ticks and poison oak on the trail. Meet at the parking lot, 1.6 miles from Montana de Oro entrance sign. You can find all our hikes posted at: http://ccspa.info/awn. Join yhoo.it/work-out-hikes to recieve email reminders of AWN hikes in the workout series. (S*) 5 miles, 2.5 hours
July 5, Fri., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 6, Sat., 11:00 am PECHO RANCH DAY-FAMILY EVENT FAMILY EVENT Learn what life was like over 100 years ago on what was then el Pecho Ranch. Enjoy family activities at Grandpa's Farm where you can milk a cow, learn to rope and make your own butter. Listen to the Atalanta Running trio and sample home baked bread with butter and jam. Other activities will include 4-H farm animals, pie baking contest, stitchery, quilting, spinning, rope tying, native plant identification and junior rangers. All activities take place at the Spooner Ranch House in Montana de Oro State Park. EVENT 3 hours EVENT 3 hours
July 6, Sat., 11:00 am San Simeon History (Weather Permitting) Meet at the Coastal Discovery Center to travel through time as we walk to the pier (0.5 miles) to explore the diverse history and uses of San Simeon Cove. Allow 1.5 hours for this activity. The Coastal Discovery Center is located at W.R. Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of HWY 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates. (T) 1.5 hours
July 6, Sat., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 6, Sat., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 6, Sat., 12:00 pm Pecho Ranch Day Pie Baking Contest The juding will begin at "high Noon!". The winning pie pieces will be sold for $2. All other pies will be cut and pieces will be sold for $1 after the winning pie is announced. Anyone and everyone is encouraged to bring a pie to be judged and of course, eaten!!! Family Event
July 6, Sat., 1:00 pm Cow to Plow to Now Take a short walk and learn about the founder of the Pecho Ranch the amazing, inventive A.B. Spooner, II and his fantastic projects. Meet at the Spooner Ranch House, Montana de Oro. (E) 0.5mi, 1hr
July 7, Sun., 11:00 am Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 7, Sun., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 7, Sun., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 8, Mon., 1:00 pm Salt marsh to Mudflats Follow a path from the State Park Marina through native plants to the salt marsh and on to the mud flats. Learn the history of the salt marsh, and see the plants and animals living in and on these specialized environments. Dress for heat, wind and mud. Bring binoculars. Park close to the southeast end of the marina parking lot or across the street by the MB campground restrooms. (E) 0.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 9, Tue., 11:00 am Discover Hidden Life in the Morro Bay Estuary Learn about some of our planet's most fascinating, seldom seen lifeforms. Meet at the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History where we'll use a videomicroscope to take a look at the life that exists in a single drop of water. (E) (T) 1 Hour
July 12, Fri., 9:00 am Work-out Hike Hazard Peak from Horse Camp Road 6 miles, 1000 feet elevation gain, 2 1/2 hours. We will hike past the horse camp and up the Manzanita trail to the Hazard Peak Summit and return using the East Boundary Trail. Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection, bring water, snack, trekking poles if desired. There may be ticks and poison oak on trail. Meet in the turn out 1/10 miles from the Montana de Oro entrance sign. You can find all our hikes posted at ccnha.org/awn/ (S*) 6 miles, 2.5 hours
July 12, Fri., 10:00 am Biodiversity 101 at Oso Flaco Lake Learn about some of the 1,200 different species in the fascinating plant and wildlife communities as we walk the trail and boardwalk to Oso Flaco Lake and adjacent dunes. Layered clothing and drinking water recommended. Highway 1, 3 miles N of Guadalupe turn on Oso Flaco Rd. and park in the lot at the end of the road. (*M) (H) 2 miles, approx. 2 hours
July 12, Fri., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 13, Sat., 10:00 am Los Osos Oaks Reserve Enjoy a shaded stroll through ancient forest. See native plants and evidence of Chumash habitation. Learn colorful historical background. Meet at Reserve entrance, 0.7 miles east of South Bay Blvd. on Los Osos Valley Road. (*E) 1 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 13, Sat., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 13, Sat., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 13, Sat., 2:00 pm Black Hill Trail Walk the most accessible of the volcanic sisters while we discuss their history and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding geography from atop the hill. Take Golf Course Drive past the clubhouse and bear left at fork in road. Meet at the overlook parking lot above Morro Bay Golf Course. (M) 0.5mi., 1-1.5hr.
July 13, Sat., 2:00 pm Saturday Scientists-Aquatic Insects Up Close Learn about the insects that inhabit our local streams and how they are useful as indicators of the health of a creek. Using the museum's binocular microscopes, you will be amazed to observe the intricate and beautiful structures that are an inspiration to science fiction writers and fly fisherman everywhere. Instruction on how to operate the microscopes is included. Meet at the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History auditorium. (Family)(E)(T) 2 hours
July 14, Sun., 11:00 am Harmony Headlands and Its Fascinating Human History Humans have had a close and interactive relationship with this seemingly remote area for thousands of years. Discover how we can enjoy a connection with the past. Join me on this walk as we surround ourselves with the animal, bird, and plant environment of today. You may want to bring layers of clothing, sun block, a snack, water, and binoculars. We will meet at Harmony Headlands parking lot, located on the left side of Highway One about 5.5 miles North of Cayucos. (A) 4 miles, 2 to 2 1/2 hours
July 14, Sun., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 14, Sun., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 14, Sun., 1:30 pm Chumash - Before Spanish Explorers A half mile walk by the lagoon at Oceano Campground starting at the Nature Center to hear about the way the Chumash lived before the Spanish explorers. We will look at the plants and animals they used for food and other uses. (*E) 1/2 mi., 1.5 hrs.
July 15, Mon., 10:00 am Salt marsh to Mudflats Follow a path from the State Park Marina through native plants to the salt marsh and on to the mud flats. Learn the history of the salt marsh, and see the plants and animals living in and on these specialized environments. Dress for heat, wind and mud. Bring binoculars. Park close to the southeast end of the marina parking lot or across the street by the MB campground restrooms. (E) 0.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 17, Wed., 1:00 pm Eucalyptus- Beauty or Beast? Do you love Eucalyptus? Hate it? Can't decide? Come on this informative walk through one Eucalyptus grove in Montana de Oro and learn the history, biology, pros and cons, and uses of the trees. Then decide for yourself! Meet at the Hazard Canyon parking lot, on the right, 1.6 miles from the park entrance. Enjoy the ride in looking at the grove, trees, bark and light filtering through. Dress for the weather, bring binoculars. (E) 0.5 miles, 2 hours
July 19, Fri., 9:00 am Work Out Hike: Reservoir & Rattlesnake Flats, Coon to Bluff Loop 5 miles, 600 foot elevation gain, 2.5 hours. We go up the Reservoir Flats trail to the Badger and then up to the Valencia picnic table. From here we take the Rattlesnake Flat trail to Coon Creek and return on the Bluff trail. Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection, bring water, snack, trekking poles if desired. There may be ticks and poison oak on trail. Park at the Ranch House 2.6 miles from the Montana de Oro entrance sign. You can find all our hikes posted at http://ccspa.info/awn/ Join yhoo.it/work-out-hikes to receive email reminders of AWN hikes in the workout series. (S*) 5 miles, 2.5 hours
July 19, Fri., 10:00 am Oceano Lagoon Microcosmos Come to the Nature Center at the Oceano Campground for a fascinating look at the microorganisms collected in the lagoon. Two types of microscopes are available for viewing and identifying these critters. Theme: Exploration of the Microcosmos of Oceano Lagoon 1. Overview of life at the microscopic level that might be found in fresh water and how this fits into the cycle of life here 2. Demonstration of how to use a plankton net and other ways to collect specimens 3. Guidelines for use of the microscope 4. Overview of guides available for identification 5. Time to explore using the stereoscopes and compound light microscopes (Invertebrates, plankton, plants in and near the water, signs of vertebrates) (Family) 2 hours
July 19, Fri., 11:00 am Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 19, Fri., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 20, Sat., 10:00 am Coastal Discovery Center Fair! Come see live animals, build a underwater robot, learn about the National Marine Sanctuary and California State Parks through games and crafts, take a picture with Sammy the Steelhead, learn about your local marine mammals, meet animals from the SLO Turtle Rescue and the Pacific Wildlife Center and dance to the music! Food vendor will be on-site. Saturday, July 20 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at WR Hearst Memorial Beach, San Simeon. Ocean side of Hwy. 1, opposite Hearst Castle entrance. Admission is free. Transportation provided by Cambria Community Bus Event sponsored by the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, California State Parks and the San Simeon Tourism Alliance. Overflow parking and free shuttle service available from the Hearst Castle parking lot. Family Event, 10am-4pm
July 20, Sat., 11:00 am Harmony Headlands and Its Fascinating Human History Humans have had a close and interactive relationship with this seemingly remote area for thousands of years. Discover how we can enjoy a connection with the past. Join me on this walk as we surround ourselves with the animal, bird, and plant environment of today. You may want to bring layers of clothing, sun block, a snack, water, and binoculars. We will meet at Harmony Headlands parking lot, located on the left side of Highway One about 5.5 miles North of Cayucos. (A) 4 miles, 2 to 2 1/2 hours
July 20, Sat., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 20, Sat., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 21, Sun., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 21, Sun., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 25, Thu., 1:00 pm Discover Magnificent Morro Rock Explore the beauty of Morro Rock and learn about its geology and history and the animals that live on and near the rock. Meet at the rest rooms in the parking lot in front of the rock. (E) .5mi., 1-1.5hr.
July 26, Fri., 9:00 am White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
July 26, Fri., 9:00 am Work-Out-Hike to Valencia Peak 4 miles, 1300 feet elevation gain, 2 1/2 hours. We hike up the rocky west trail to the summit. Use the electronic QR Code log book to sign in. After enjoying the views we descend on the more gently sloped Oats Peak Trails. Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection, bring water, snack, and trekking poles if desired. Poison oak and ticks may be on trail. Meet at the Valencia Peak trail head just 2.7 miles from the Montana de Oro entrance sign. You can find all our hikes posted at ccspa.info/awn/ Join yhoo.it/work-out-hikes to receive email reminders of AWN hikes in the workout series. (*S) 4 miles, 2.5 hours
July 26, Fri., 10:00 am Los Osos Oaks Reserve Enjoy a shaded stroll through ancient forest. See native plants and evidence of Chumash habitation. Learn colorful historical background. Meet at Reserve entrance, 0.7 miles east of South Bay Blvd. on Los Osos Valley Road. (*E) 1 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 26, Fri., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 27, Sat., 11:00 am Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 27, Sat., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 27, Sat., 11:00 am White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
July 27, Sat., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 28, Sun., 11:00 am The Sea Otter Experience Come out to the Sea Otter Trailer to ask questions and listen to Docents talk about these beautiful curious sea mammals. Many items will be on display to view and touch. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available for viewing the raft of otters close up, playing, relaxing and raising their young. There are also many otter-related items for sale at the trailer. The trailer is located at the harbor entrance, near the base of Morro Rock, across from the south parking lot restrooms on Coleman Drive in Morro Bay. Hours: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. Open 11-3
July 28, Sun., 11:00 am Wildlife Viewing and Plankton Sampling from the San Simeon Pier Collect your own water sample and discover the amazing life that lives in a drop of ocean water while viewing wildlife of beautiful San Simeon Cove! We meet each Fri, Sat and Sun at 11am at the Coastal Discovery Center in San Simeon, located at W.R Hearst Memorial Beach across from Hearst Castle west of Hwy 1. Call 805-927-6575 for weekly updates 11AM
July 31, Wed., 1:00 pm Salt marsh to Mudflats Follow a path from the State Park Marina through native plants to the salt marsh and on to the mud flats. Learn the history of the salt marsh, and see the plants and animals living in and on these specialized environments. Dress for heat, wind and mud. Bring binoculars. Park close to the southeast end of the marina parking lot or across the street by the MB campground restrooms. (E) 0.5 mi., 2 hr.
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