The American River Conservancy offers environmental and experiential education programs designed to not only inform, but to inspire. Our place-based education programs explore the unique ecology of the Sierra Foothills and encourage learners to connect to their environment on a deeper level.
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At American River Conservancy (ARC), we believe that environmental education benefits people of all ages and backgrounds. DONATE TODAY
NATURE CAMP
Each summer ARC explores the Coloma-Lotus valley with kids from kindergarten to high school at our Nature Camps. Campers will learn about the riparian ecology through games, crafts, hikes, music, and more.
Check back in the winter for more information and how to register.
Email [email protected] with questions.
FIELD TRIPS FOR SCHOOL and HOMESCHOOL GROUPS
Interested in signing up for a field trip? The American River Conservancy Environmental Education Program offers a wide range of NGSS aligned lesson for grades K-12. Example activities include outdoor science experiences, hands-on environmental education activities, art experiences, and stewardship projects. You can find full descriptions on our Field Trip Menu.
Homeschool families can take advantage of our monthly Homeschool Friday programs with a different theme and activities each month – find details and register here.
Please fill out our Interest Form and someone will reach out to schedule your trip. If you have additional questions, please email [email protected]
CALIFORNIA NATURALIST 2025
Check back this winter for details about the 2025 California Naturalist Course next Spring.
If you enjoy exploring and learning about our local ecology, engaging in citizen science and sharing your knowledge with others, this program is for you! The 40-hour course combines a science curriculum with guest lecturers, field trips and project –based learning to explore the unique ecology and natural history of the Sierra Foothills. Our California Naturalist class will happen in spring of 2025 with class meetings being offered both in-person and online.
Questions? Contact [email protected]
UC CLIMATE STEWARDS
This year’s course runs from September 11-November 13. Register here
The UC Climate Stewards seeks to foster a committed corps of volunteers ready to effectively engage in transformative local solutions to promote community and ecosystem resilience in a changing climate. This ten week course will introduce you to social-emotional resilience and trauma-aware practices, climate change communication, climate science, and community resilience planning. The course will combine communication, engagement, and science curricula with guest presenters, field trips, and project-based learning to immerse you in the dynamics of your local community. The UC Climate Stewards Handbook is included in the course fee.
Class will meet on Wednesday evenings from 4-6:30 PM and you will have the option to join us in-person or via Zoom. There will be 3 mandatory, in-person field trips that will occur on weekends. Tentative dates are Sept. 22, Oct. 20 and Nov. 3 but these are subject to change!!
Draft Syllabus (please note that dates for field trips are tentative and subject to change)
Questions? Contact [email protected].
NATURE BOWL 2025
Stay tuned for information about Nature Bowl 2025.
For more information or to register your team, contact [email protected]
HIKES AND CLASSES
Whether you’re looking for a workshop, hike, or volunteer event, we have something planned almost weekly.
If you have questions or ideas for an event, please contact [email protected].
NATURE CENTER AND BOOKSTORE
The American River Nature Center
Available during office hours by appointment only.
CLOSEOUT BOOK SALE – 30% OFF ALL INVENTORY
There’s lots to see and learn about inside the Nature Center, which occupies the historic Kane House.
Outside the Nature Center enjoy several hiking trails in the park, and nearby. Maps available on request.
530-621-1224
