Community Events From: The San Diego River Park Foundation

Join us for a fun, hands-on environmental education event!

Centered on the ecology, culture, and significance of the Ocean Beach Estuary and the San Diego River.

This special one-day community event offers a live preview of our Natural LAW Field Trip Programs, giving families, educators, and community members a firsthand look at what students experience during our outdoor education programs.

LAND | AIR | WATER

Together, they form the whole Natural LAW ecosystem.

Our Natural LAW (Land, Air, Water) Program is observation-based, hands-on scientific investigation. Designed to align with NGSS Standards, our field trips connect students directly to the natural world through meaningful outdoor learning experiences.

What Students Experience on Our Field Trips

Through our Land, Air, and Water programs, students:

Explore native plants and animals of the riparian ecosystem Examine owl pellets and feathers under microscopesInvestigate animal tracks and ecological cluesUse real field-science tools to collect and analyze dataExamine river macroinvertebrates — yes, “River Bugs are Cool!”Identify birds on guided walks using binoculars and see animal skull replicas

River Bugs are Cool!

Students investigate river macroinvertebrates—powerful bioindicators that reveal the health of the river. By studying these organisms, participants learn:

How scientists assess water qualityWhich species thrive in healthy versus impacted ecosystemsHow human activities influence river healthWhat solutions can protect our watershedIdentify the importance of the estuary and its native species  

Why It Matters

The San Diego River estuary is one of the most ecologically significant habitats in our region. Through Natural LAW field trips, students:

Engage in scientific analysisBuild critical thinking and environmental literacyDevelop stewardship valuesExperience the outdoors as scientists and explorers

When students understand the connections between Land, Air, and Water, they begin to see the ecosystem as an integrated whole — and themselves as part of it.

Explore

Whether you’re a family looking for meaningful outdoor engagement or an educator exploring field trip opportunities, this event offers a powerful glimpse into how Natural LAW transforms environmental education.

Space is limited. Join us and discover the San Diego River in a whole new way.

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Explore. Discover. Connect.

Introducing Natural LAW Field Trips for the Whole Family!

Land • Air • Water – Your Family’s Adventure Starts Here!

 

For years, parents and chaperones have joined us on student field trips and shared one consistent wish: “I wish they offered these field trips for adults too!” 

So, we listened.

 

The San Diego River Park Foundation is thrilled to invite families of all ages to experience our immersive Natural LAW Education Program—a series of hands-on learning adventures designed to deepen your connection to the San Diego River, its rich ecology, and its cultural significance.

These field trips are FREE, fun, and crafted to create meaningful outdoor memories together while inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

 

Explore the Natural LAW Programs

Each themed field trip uncovers a different dimension of the natural world. Families rotate through interactive stations, discovering the hidden stories, adaptations, and science that bring our local ecosystems to life.

 

 

Upcoming Family Field Trip:

 

Location: 2310 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108

Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

 

Arrive: 9:45 am

Program Start: 10:00am
Program End: 12:00pm

AIR: Pollinator Partners at Grant Park

Dive into the captivating world of bats, butterflies, bugs, and bees—nature’s unsung heroes! 

Learn how these incredible pollinators play a vital role in shaping our ecosystemsDiscover enhancing biodiversity, and ensuring the survival of countless plant speciesGain a newfound appreciation for the intricate connections that make up the tapestry of life

Join us on an adventure to understand how these remarkable creatures support the balance of river ecosystems while nurturing the beauty of our natural world. 

 

Punctuality: Please arrive a few minutes before the event. Groups arriving late will not be able to experience the entire program.

 

Responsibility: Please be aware of your surroundings, as the safety and discipline of children are your primary responsibility. Promote listening, foster excitement, focus, curiosity, and engagement. Encourage observation rather than providing direct answers. 

 

Please step away to take phone calls to deter distraction.

 

Environmental Safety: For safety, please remain vigilant, attentive, and engaged. Natural terrain may present unique challenges. We will reasonably accommodate special needs with the understanding that some of the wilderness terrain may pose challenges. 

 

Dress for Outdoor Success: 

·      Closed-toe shoes and long pants

·      Comfortable clothes that can get wet, dirty, or muddy.

·      Jacket and/or rain jacket (if needed).

·      Sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat. - Bring a filled reusable water bottle.

 

Leave No Trace: Please respect the park and program areas. Ensure you leave these spaces cleaner than you found them, and dispose of all trash properly.

 

Lunch: A shaded picnic area may be available. Please note that the San Diego River Foundation does not provide lunch or supervision during lunch. Please practice Leave No Trace principles at the San Diego River Park and at all outdoor locations.

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Build a Big Brown Bat BuddyThen Join the Bat Walk Along the San Diego River!

Disclaimer: “Big” Brown Bats are actually quite small!

 Join us for a creative, hands-on afternoon celebrating one of our river's most important nighttime neighbors—the Big Brown Bat! These bats are considered "big" because they are larger than other bats in the area, yet they weigh less than an ounce and are quite small animals.

 

In this workshop, you will create a needle-felted Big Brown Bat to take home. Before you leave, you will have the opportunity to take your new Big Brown Bat Buddy on a real Bat Walk, where you will learn about how bats contribute to the health of the San Diego River, our neighborhoods, and the greater community. Spend the afternoon discovering more about the essential role of the Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus) while crafting your own nocturnal friend. After the workshop, you can sign up separately for the evening Bat Walk to see and hear bats along the river. Don’t miss this engaging experience—reserve your spot before the event fills up! Needle Felting Workshop

Create your own felt bat modeled after a real Big Brown Bat. You will learn fun bat facts, understand why bats matter, and discover how they help keep our ecosystem healthy—all while crafting something truly unique.

 

May 16, 2026 – 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
River Center at Grant Park: 2310 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108
Spots Available: Only 10 spots

 Evening Bat Walk (Separate Sign-up)

After the workshop, join us for the guided Bat Walk and experience bats in action as they emerge for the night.  

 

May 16, 2026 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
River Center at Grant Park: 2310 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108

NOTES:

Needle Felting Art (Ages 8+) can be a wonderful experience and is recommended for children who:Enjoys crafts and creative projectsCan follow instructions and stay engagedHas the focus and patience to see a project throughEnjoy structured projects that help keep kids successful and engaged

You know your child best—they may surprise you when inspired by animals!

 

SAFETY NOTE

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult

If your child is not comfortable with the felt needles, instructions, or paying attention, 
please escort your child out.Felt at your own risk as needles are sharp – it just takes focus and care. COST

A $10+ donation toward supplies would be greatly appreciated.

 

Space is limited—reserve your spot early!
Come to craft, learn, and discover the magic of our local bats along the San Diego River.

Join us for a fun River Days adventure as we launch into bat and moth season and listen and look for bats and moths while we stroll along the river.  We will delve into our nighttime world to eavesdrop on eerie echolocation calls using bioacoustics and attract moths to our UV lighting station to observe them up close. 

All ages are welcome to join us for this hair-raising event. Sign up early as space is limited, and our Nature Nights events fill up quickly!

Please bring a flashlight or headlamp, a camp chair for the later mothing portion and wear long pants and close toed shoes.

River Days is our annual 9-day celebration of the San Diego River! SDRPF and an estimated 20 partners host fun nature outings, volunteer opportunities, art activities, bike rides, hikes, and much more along all 52 miles of the river.

The celebration kicks off with the 5K Walk for Wildlife and Fun Run on May 9th. JOIN US! To see the full River Days schedule, click here. 

About our Presenters: 

Don Endicott is a retired civilian research engineer and executive in the field of Navy Communications and Network Technologies in San Diego, but Don discovered a second career as a volunteer naturalist. He is a National Association of Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide and Mission Trails Regional Park Trail Guide as well as public educator for the San Diego Natural History Museum and the San Diego Humane Society as a member of Project Wildlife’s “Bat Team”. Don presents multi-media talks on bats and mountain lions at regional venues such as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Mission Trails Regional Park, and Agua Caliente County Park. He was recognized as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s volunteer Naturalist of the Year in 2018. He contributes full spectrum bat echolocation call recordings to the San Diego Natural History Museum and Wildlife Acoustics, a bioacoustics monitoring systems company, where they have been incorporated into reference libraries for species identification. He is a field contributor to herpetofauna surveys and monitors nesting peregrine falcons for the National Park Service and US Fish & Wildlife Service. Don is co-author of 50 Best Short Hikes San Diego (Wilderness Press, 2018) with the late Jerry Schad.

Hector Valtierra is an avid moth enthusiast, and will be setting up a mothing station for us. When he isn't out looking for moths and other insects, Hector works as a microbiology and general biology professor at San Diego community colleges. He is also an avid iNaturalist user and wildlife photographer.

Consider donating to support our bat conservation program! Follow this link to learn more—every bit of support helps us protect more bats!

  

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Explore. Discover. Connect.

Introducing Natural LAW Field Trips for the Whole Family!

Land • Air • Water – Your Family’s Adventure Starts Here!

 

For years, parents and chaperones have joined us on student field trips and shared one consistent wish: “I wish they offered these field trips for adults too!” 

So, we listened.

 

The San Diego River Park Foundation is thrilled to invite families of all ages to experience our immersive Natural LAW Education Program—a series of hands-on learning adventures designed to deepen your connection to the San Diego River, its rich ecology, and its cultural significance.

These field trips are FREE, fun, and crafted to create meaningful outdoor memories together while inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

 

Explore the Natural LAW Programs

Each themed field trip uncovers a different dimension of the natural world. Families rotate through interactive stations, discovering the hidden stories, adaptations, and science that bring our local ecosystems to life.

 

Upcoming Family Field Trip:

 

Location: 2310 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108

Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026

 

Arrive: 9:45 am

Program Start: 10:00am
Program End: 12:00pm

 

AIR: Beyond Feathers at Grant Park

With more than 500 bird species calling San Diego home, the sky is alive with diversity!
Join us for:

A guided Bird Walk through the vibrant San Diego RiverLessons on bird identification and behaviorInsights into habitats, adaptations, and migration

You’ll see (and hear!) the river in a whole new way as you uncover the hidden world of our feathered neighbors.

 

Punctuality: Please arrive a few minutes before the event. Groups arriving late will not be able to experience the entire program.

 

Responsibility: Please be aware of your surroundings, as the safety and discipline of children are your primary responsibility. Promote listening, foster excitement, focus, curiosity, and engagement. Encourage observation rather than providing direct answers. 

 

Please step away to take phone calls to deter distraction.

 

Environmental Safety: For safety, please remain vigilant, attentive, and engaged. Natural terrain may present unique challenges. We will reasonably accommodate special needs with the understanding that some of the wilderness terrain may pose challenges. 

 

Dress for Outdoor Success: 

·      Closed-toe shoes and long pants

·      Comfortable clothes that can get wet, dirty, or muddy.

·      Jacket and/or rain jacket (if needed).

·      Sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat. - Bring a filled reusable water bottle.

 

Leave No Trace: Please respect the park and program areas. Ensure you leave these spaces cleaner than you found them, and dispose of all trash properly.

 

Lunch: A shaded picnic area may be available. Please note that the San Diego River Foundation does not provide lunch or supervision during lunch. Please practice Leave No Trace principles at the San Diego River Park and at all outdoor locations.

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Explore. Discover. Connect.

Introducing Natural LAW Field Trips for the Whole Family!

Land • Air • Water – Your Family’s Adventure Starts Here!

 

For years, parents and chaperones have joined us on student field trips and shared one consistent wish: “I wish they offered these field trips for adults too!” 

So, we listened.

 

The San Diego River Park Foundation is thrilled to invite families of all ages to experience our immersive Natural LAW Education Program—a series of hands-on learning adventures designed to deepen your connection to the San Diego River, its rich ecology, and its cultural significance.

These field trips are FREE, fun, and crafted to create meaningful outdoor memories together while inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

 

Explore the Natural LAW Programs

Each themed field trip uncovers a different dimension of the natural world. Families rotate through interactive stations, discovering the hidden stories, adaptations, and science that bring our local ecosystems to life.

 

 

Upcoming Family Field Trip:

 

Location: 2310 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108

Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026

 

Arrive: 9:45 am

Program Start: 10:00am
Program End: 12:00pm

 

LAND: Tracking and Field at Grant Park

Assume the role of a keen detective investigating the rich tapestry of wildlife and plant life that thrive along the river. Delve deep into the intricate relationships that sustain this vibrant ecosystem.

Learn to identify animals by the signs they leave behindDiscover an animal's feeding habits by examining their teethUncover the Predator-Prey dynamics and relationshipReveal the natural checks and balances regulating the wild

Sharpen your observational skills and witness firsthand how organisms interact, mutually influence one another, and collectively contribute to the harmony and resilience of the riparian ecosystem.

 

Punctuality: Please arrive a few minutes before the event. Groups arriving late will not be able to experience the entire program.

 

Responsibility: Please be aware of your surroundings, as the safety and discipline of children are your primary responsibility. Promote listening, foster excitement, focus, curiosity, and engagement. Encourage observation rather than providing direct answers. 

 

Please step away to take phone calls to deter distraction.

 

Environmental Safety: For safety, please remain vigilant, attentive, and engaged. Natural terrain may present unique challenges. We will reasonably accommodate special needs with the understanding that some of the wilderness terrain may pose challenges. 

 

Dress for Outdoor Success: 

·      Closed-toe shoes and long pants

·      Comfortable clothes that can get wet, dirty, or muddy.

·      Jacket and/or rain jacket (if needed).

·      Sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat. - Bring a filled reusable water bottle.

 

Leave No Trace: Please respect the park and program areas. Ensure you leave these spaces cleaner than you found them, and dispose of all trash properly.

 

Lunch: A shaded picnic area may be available. Please note that the San Diego River Foundation does not provide lunch or supervision during lunch. Please practice Leave No Trace principles at the San Diego River Park and at all outdoor locations.

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Embark on a fun-filled walk with bird experts Cindy Pencek and Ian Swirka to observe and count the amazing biodiversity of birds that call this section of the river home! You'll not only experience the joy and relaxation of connecting with nature, but will also contribute to conservation efforts through reporting observations on iNaturalist!  

You'll also be able to check out our River Studio at Grant Park, where we're creating a unique nature education center and eco-park that will serve over 10,000 students annually and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. 

We hope you can join us! Kids are welcome, with adult supervision.

Parking: Please park in the Grant Park park parking lot. Access is via the intersection with the stoplight across from iFly Indoor Skydiving.  p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {font: 9.0px Menlo} span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}

Find other Bird Walk at Grant Park event dates HERE!

 

Would you like to share your outdoor knowledge and/or education? Do you love getting both adults and kids excited about nature? We'd love to have you on our team!

Field Trips:

We often put on field trips for children's groups, which include a nature walk, collecting bug samples in the river, then looking at them under a microscope and identifying them. We need someone who can "make sense of nature" - someone who is listening to and absorbing their surroundings and making sense of it, so they can help education the children. Examples of this are saying "This is stinging nettle, don't touch this!" or "This is edible!".

We offer field trips Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. We typically need volunteers for a 3.5 hour window, starting between 8:30am and 9:30am. We typically hold field trips in Ocean Beach or Mission Valley. If you'd like to volunteer for a specific event rather than for field trips, you can go to the Education Program Page and sign up for our upcoming events.

If you don't have a lot of outdoor knowledge, we still need your help! Volunteering can be as simple as staying with the tent and guarding belongings, or assisting with educational activities (training provided).

Docents:

We are looking to start expanding on our educational opportunities, and potentially offering tours along the San Diego River. If you have knowledge of the San Diego River, have experience in the docent field, or are even just willing to learn, we'd love to have you! You don't have to be an expert in the field - but if you have knowledge and would love to share it with our current and future generations, sign up here and we'll get in contact with you regarding how you can help!