Nature Center

New Nature Center Now Open to the Public

The visitor center at the San Elijo Lagoon is open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday - Sunday. The center is an excellent vantage point from which to explore the Ecological Reserve and its more than seven miles of hiking trails. Admission to the nature center is free. On Saturdays, you can join a Conservancy naturalist for a free guided walk at 10 am.

The nature center features state-of-the-art, museum-quality exhibits interpreting the natural and cultural resources of the San Elijo Lagoon as well as the 'green' design and construction features of the building.

An exhibit at the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center
(Photo: Linda McIntosh/SDBackyard.com)

The two-story building is made from recycled materials and features solar panels, irrigated roof plants and recycled water. It meets LEED Gold level certification standards. The visitor center serves as the base for education, land stewardship and environmental protection.

Free parking and bike racks are available in the nature center's parking lot. You can reach the front desk of the visitor center from 9 am - 5 pm, Monday - Sunday, by calling (760) 634-3026.