Educators’ Guide to Santa Cruz State Parks 2006

ParkPrimer

Dear Educators, Dear Educators,

Every teacher knows that supplementing the classroom experience with
field trips makes seat work come alive for our students. To support your
learning goals, Santa Cruz District State Parks and Friends of the Santa
Cruz State Parks prepare this annual detailed planning guide for educators.
The guide lists all the programs available at local State Parks with reserva-
tion information and annual special events listed. All of these educational
programs are free or very low cost, easy to reserve, and designed to meet
the learning styles of students.
Please share this outstanding resource with your students, their families
and your fellow teachers.
Sincerely,
Diane K. Siri
Santa Cruz County Superintendent
of Schools
California State Parks link wonderfully with the classroom. While the class-
room provides the day-to-day learning environment, parks are living labora-
tories offering students tangible experiences with their natural and cultural
heritage. In this Park Primer you will discover many fruitful ways to con-
nect your students to the outstanding resources within our state parks.
This primer is created for your planning, and I hope you find it valuable.
You will see that we have specifically developed programs that connect
school curriculum with the programs we offer. In addition to the hands-on
programs in the parks, I would like to bring your attention to PORTS, a
new program giving us the capability to provide live video conferencing
directly into the classroom. This new opportunity will essentially bring
state parks into the classroom without having to make
fieldtrip arrangements. For more information about this
and other new developments, go to www.parks.ca.gov
and look for the Adventures in Learning link.
Connecting our children with their heritage is an
important job that we share. We look forward to work-
ing closely with you in this important endeavor.
Sincerely,

Dave Vincent, Santa Cruz District Superintendent

About this Publication:

F
riends of Santa Cruz State Parks proudly presents this educators’ guide, introducing you to the State Parks
programs that your students will enjoy on field trips. All the information you need for planning is included
here. Want to hike or explore tidepools? Learn about local history? Look inside! All the facts are here.

Parks Introduction: Discounts: At-a-Glance Chart: Friends OF

A description of the Educators enjoy discounts Everything you need to
highlights of each park. at most parks! know before you go! SantaCruz
S TAT E PA R K S
page 2 page 3 pages 4–5
 Presenting Our Parks…
Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
NATURAL BRIDGES
Natural Bridges State Beach
is world-renowned for its
yearly migration of
Monarch butterflies.
Visitors can see thou-
sands during the but-
terflies’ peak season. The
best time to see monarchs
in the park is from October 15 to
February 1.
This beach, with its famous natural
bridge, is an excellent place to view
shore and ocean birds, migrating
whales, and seals and otters playing
offshore. Further along the beach, tide-
pools offer a glimpse of life beneath the
sea. Low tides reveal sea stars, crabs, sea
anemones, and other colorful ocean life.
The park also includes areas of
coastal scrub meadows, with bright
native wildflowers in the spring. Moore
Creek flows down to the ocean through
these meadows, forming a wetlands in
the sand.
NEW BRIGHTON
New Brighton State Beach is one of the
most popular and most visited state
beaches in California. This 93-acre
park along the beautiful coast of Santa
Cruz offers spectacular views of the
Monterey Bay. It is famous for its fam-
ily-oriented campground which sits on
the towering bluffs high above the
Pacific Ocean. Beautiful, lush vegeta-
tion of pine trees, Monterey Cypress,
oak, eucalyptus trees, and wild berry
vines surround campers with a peaceful
tranquility.
The Pacific Migrations Visitor
Center/Museum here focuses on
the rich cultural and natural his-
tory of Pacific Rim migrations
to the Central Coast. New
Brighton was a Chinese fishing
village during the 1840s – 1 870s.
FOREST OF NISENE MARKS
This park offers 10,000 acres of rugged
semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to
steep coastal mountains of more than
2,600 feet. The site of logging opera-
tions until the 1920s, visitors can still
find evidence of logging operations,
mill sites and trestles in the park. The
land was purchased by the Marks fam-
ily in the 1950s, and was donated to
the state in 1963. There are 30 miles
of trails nestled in this second growth
forest, which are perfect for hiking. A
number of picnic areas are available
with charcoal grills.
MANRESA
Manresa State Beach features a beautiful
expanse of sea and sand, with fishing,
surfing, and other beach recreation.
Manresa Uplands Campground pro-
vides dramatic views of the ocean from
the bluffs above the beach.
PALM
Palm State Beach is a popular day use
area located in southern Santa Cruz
County. The wide beach is perfect for a
long walk or a day in the sun. Fishing
and swimming are popular activities at
Palm Beach. Picnic tables are available
2 in the day use area.
? tranquil redwood forest.
SANTA CRUZ MISSION
All that remains today of the original
religious community is this seven room
adobe which was living quarters for the
Californian Indian workers. Restored
to its original appearance, this building
stands as a testament to the hard work
and resilience of the people who
resided here. A private family home
until 1983, this 180+ year old building
is the oldest in Santa Cruz County.
Check in at the Visitor Center for
additional historic photos and educa-
tional materials.
SEACLIFF
This long stretch of sand and bluffs
has great accessible facilities including
picnic areas and a Visitor Center. This
beach is known for its fishing pier and
fossils of extinct marine creatures in
the bluffs. The beach is also a popular
swimming spot. One of the most
unusual attractions in the Santa Cruz
area rests at the end of the fishing pier.
The USS Palo Alto, one of only three
concrete ships built during World War I,
has been a popular attraction for visi-
tors since it was put in place in 1929.
SUNSET
Surrounded by fertile farmland, Sunset
State Beach features a wooded camp-
ground, picnic area, group camp-
ground, and 200-foot high dunes (the
largest in the country) built up in front
of coastal bluff. The beach itself
stretches down to where it meets the
mouth of the Pajaro River, giving three
miles of unobstructed and spectacular
shoreline.
During the summer and autumn, it
is possible to see large groups of bottle-
nosed dolphins. The beach features
pine trees, mountainous sand dunes,
and ocean side picnic spots.
WILDER
This park covers approximately 7,000
acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking
and equestrian trails winding through
coastal terraces and valleys. Several
buildings once belonging to the Wilder
family have been restored. You can
explore the history of early ranchers
and farmers along the Central Coast
through tours and living history
demonstrations. The site was originally
the main rancho supplying the Santa
Cruz Mission, and later became a suc-
cessful and innovative dairy ranch. The
grounds include Victorian homes,
barns, shops, gardens, and a historic
adobe. Major wetlands restoration proj-
ects have attracted some of the original
?
flora and fauna back to the area.
Which is the Most
Changed Park ?
Perhaps the Forest of
Nisene Marks. It had
large tracts of clear-cut
logging as of the 1930s
and now is a beautiful,
Mountain Parks
Foundation
BIG BASIN REDWOODS
This is the oldest state park in
California, acquired in 1902. The park
has 40 miles of trails, which serve hik-
ers and equestrians, linking Big Basin
to Castle Rock State Park and the east-
ern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.
The Skyline to the Sea Trail threads its
way through the park along Waddell
Creek to the beach and adjacent
Theodore J. Hoover Natural Preserve, a
freshwater marsh. The park has a sur-
prising number of waterfalls,
a wide variety of environments, from
lush canyon bottoms to sparse chaparral-
covered slopes, many animals (deer,
raccoons, bobcat) and lots of bird life
(including marbled murrelets, egrets,
herons and acorn woodpeckers.) The
park is also home to stately redwood
groves.
HENRY COWELL
This park features 15 miles of hiking
and riding trails through a forest that
looks nearly the same as it did 200
years ago. Zayante Indians once lived
in the area, where they found shelter,
water and game. The park is the home
of the Redwood Grove, and features
a self-guided nature path, Douglas fir,
madrone, oak and a stand of Ponderosa
pine. There is a picnic area next to the
San Lorenzo River. The park has a
nature center and bookstore. Adjoining
the park is Roaring Camp Railroad,
offering visitors a chance to journey
back in time on an old steam locomo-
tive. The main park area, containing
large, old-growth redwoods, is about
1,750 acres, and the northern area (Fall
Creek) is 2,390 acres, with about 20
miles of hiking trails.
Waddell Creek
Association
RANCHO DEL OSO
For those interested in birding, botany,
intertidal marine life and riparian habi-
tat, Waddell Beach and the many
Rancho del Oso trails offer superb
recreation for the amateur or profes-
sional naturalist. Waddell Beach,
located across Hwy 1 from the park
entrance, is known worldwide as one of
the best spots for windsurfing and kite-
sailing. Regular surfers, boogie boarders
and surf fishermen also find it an ideal
spot to pursue their activities.
? routes for some tours. Advance planning is crucial
San Mateo Coast
Natural History Assoc.
AÑO NUEVO
The purpose of Año Nuevo State Park
is to preserve and protect a substantial
area on the western slope of the central
Coast Range inland from Año Nuevo
Point. The property contains a diversity
of plant communities, including old
growth forest, freshwater marsh, red ▲Living History Lesson at vintage Wilder Ranch State Park. ▲Students experience life on the ranch.
alder riparian forest and knobcone pine
forest. Its four perennial streams sup-
port steelhead trout and coho salmon,
and its wetlands are habitat to the rare
Educator Discounts at Association Park Stores
San Francisco garter snake and red-
legged frog. Cultural resources include
the remnants of a prehistoric Native Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks Mountain Parks San Mateo Coast
American village site and a number of
structures from the nineteenth century
Five stores at parks below.
10% discount for educators.
NATURAL BRIDGES
STATE BEACH
Foundation Natural History
Cascade Ranch. In conjunction with
adjacent and nearby public lands, this
Hours vary.
Please call 831-429-1840
2531 West Cliff Drive
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
20% off for educators September
and October ONLY. Association
park permits the protection of impor- for more information. 7 days a week, 10:30 AM TO 5:30 PM Educator discount 15%.
831-423-4609
tant regional ecological corridors. daily except Christmas. Please call for store hours.
SANTA CRUZ MISSION
NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH
PIGEON POINT LIGHTHOUSE HISTORIC STATE PARK HENRY COWELL REDWOODS AÑO NUEVO STATE RESERVE
1500 Park Avenue
Perched on a cliff on the central 144 School Street STATE PARK
Capitola, CA 95010 New Year Creek Road, Highway 1
California coast, 50 miles south of San Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-464-5620 525 North Big Trees Park Road Pescadero, CA 94660
Francisco, the 115-foot Pigeon Point (831) 425-5849 Felton, CA 95018 650-879-2025
SEACLIFF STATE BEACH 831-335-3174
Lighthouse, one of the tallest light-
WILDER RANCH HALF MOON BAY STATE BEACH
houses in America, has been guiding 201 State Park Drive BIG BASIN REDWOODS
STATE PARK Aptos, CA 95003 925 Kelly Avenue
mariners since 1872. The first-order STATE PARK
1401 Old Coast Road 831-685-6444 Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Fresnel lens, comprised of 1,008
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 21600 Big Basin Way 650-726-8804 ext. 4
prisms, stands 16 feet tall, 6 feet in 831-426-0505 Boulder Creek, CA 95006 Open Thurs — Sunday, depending
diameter, and weighs 8,000 pounds. 831-335-3174 on staffing.
Although the original Fresnel lens is no
longer in use, the lighthouse is still an PIGEON POINT LIGHT STATION
active U.S. Coast Guard aid to naviga- STATE HISTORIC PARK
tion using a 24 inch Aero Beacon. 210 Pigeon Point Road
The lighthouse is closed at the pres- Highway 1
ent time due to structural damage, but Pescadero, CA 94060
the grounds remain open. Please call 650-879-2120
(650) 879-2120 for updated informa-
tion and tour schedules.
MONTARA
Donations
This beach is a popular location for All school donations received by Friends of Santa
visitors who can explore the beach tide
Cruz State Parks are used locally to fund interpretive
pools or go surf fishing. The beach is
bounded by low hills both to the north programs and projects in our local state parks.
and south.
Point Montara has a lighthouse that
Schools and/or individual teachers can help support
these educational experiences to help ensure their
offers overnight accommodations. It is
operated by American Youth Hostels. quality and availability in years to come. California
Montara mountain is part of State Parks and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
Montara State Beach. The mountain
have a strong commitment to quality educational
is a northern spur of the Santa Cruz
Mountains and features the only undis- programs offered to all schools and educational
turbed Coastal Mountain Habitat groups, regardless of their ability to contribute
found over 100 miles of coastline.
financially for educational programming received.
HALF MOON BAY
Four miles of broad, sandy beaches
stretch out to welcome visitors to Half
Moon Bay. This picturesque setting is
Accessibility
ideal for sunbathing, fishing and pic- If any participants (student, teacher or chaperone)
nicking. A campground provides have a long- or short-term disability that may
accommodations for those who wish
interfere with their ability to enjoy and learn from a
to visit longer.
scheduled program, please discuss the situation with
the person making your reservation. A variety of
accommodations may be available, including beach
wheelchairs, scripts and/or subtitling for educational
videos, craft activity adjustments and alternative
for the success of these accommodations.
▼
At the Santa Cruz Mission, students learn how
to make tule baskets as Native Americans did .
Background image: Wilder Ranch, circa 1915.
3
 Park Name Tour Subject Tour Type
Most Other Grades/
Educators’ Guide to Santa Cruz State Parks
Group Size
Tour
Availability
Additional
Teacher
Teacher Donations/Fees Accessibility Parking
Picnic
Area
Restrooms Drinking Water
Applicable To Groups Length Packet/Info
Responsibilities
Short Guided Walk Mid Oct – $1.00 per person
Monarch Tour K – 12th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1 Hour None Available w/ Reservation Fully Accessible Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Natural w/ Indoor Activities Mid Feb strongly suggested
Bridges Tidepool Tour
Moderate Guided Walk
1st – 4th Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1.5 Hours
March1 –
None Available w/ Reservation
$1.00 per person Very Difficult for the Mobility
Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
w/ Indoor Activities July 30 strongly suggested Impaired, Accomodations Exist
State Park
Short Guided Walk $1.00 per person Very Difficult for the Mobility
Beach Ecology 2nd Grade 1 Class 1 Hour Spring Only None In Development Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
w/ Indoor Activities strongly suggested Impaired, Accomodations Exist
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Building Tour, $1.00 per person,
Pacific Migrations Tour 3rd – 4th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1.5 Hour Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Hands-On Activities if possible
New Brighton $1.00 per person,
Local History Tour Short to Moderate Guided Walk 3rd – 4th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1.5 Hour Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
if possible
State Park Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
$1.00 per person,
Wildflowers & Redwoods Short to Moderate Guided Walk 3rd Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class Up to 2 Hours April – Nov None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, not ADA Accessible None on Site
if possible
Forest of
The History of the $1.00 per person,
Nisene Marks Short to Moderate Guided Walk 3rd Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class Up to 2 Hours April – Nov None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, not ADA Accessible None on Site
Forest of Nisene Marks if possible
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement April – Nov None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, not ADA Accessible None on Site
$1.00 per person, Loose sand inclines, very difficult
Manresa Seashore Environment Short to Moderate Guided Walk Any Grade/Group 1 Class 1 Hour Year Round None In Development
if possible for the mobility-impaired
Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
State Beach Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
$1.00 per person, Loose sand inclines, very difficult
Seashore Environment Short to Moderate Guided Walk Any Grade/Group 1 Class 1 Hour Year Round None In Development Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
if possible for the mobility-impaired
Palm State
$1.00 per person,
Beach Wetland/Native Plant Walks Short to Moderate Guided Walk Any Grade/Group 1 Class 1 Hour Year Round None In Development Full Access Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
if possible
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Building Tour, Sept 15 – $1.00 per person, Full Access, ADA on site, all others
Santa Cruz Mission Native Ohlone Lifeways 3rd Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1.5 Hours None In Development Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Hands-On Activities June 15 if possible some grassy areas 1 block away
State Historic Park Early Mission Life
Building Tour,
4th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class/35 max 1.5 Hours
Sept 15 –
None In Development
$1.00 per person,
Full Access, some grassy areas
ADA on site, all others
Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Self-guided Tours Hands-On Activities June 15 if possible 1 block away
Not Available Building Tour, Chaperone training prior to $1.00 per person Some grassy areas, Some ADA on site, all others
Mission Days 3rd / 4th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class/30 max Up to 5.5 hours Oct 10 – June 15 In Development Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Hands-On Activities program day, some materials strongly suggested accomodations at workstations 1 block away
Moderate Guided Walk $1.00 per person,
Fossil Walks 2nd – 6th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class Up To 2 Hours Year Round None Available w/ Reservation Fully Accessible Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
w/ Indoor Activities if possible
Seacliff
Moderate Guided Walk w/ Only Suitable for Young $1.00 per person, Loose sand inclines, very difficult
State Beach Sanctuary Walks K – 1st Grade 1 Class 1 Hour Year Round None In Development Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Indoor Activities Students if possible for the mobility-impaired
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Outreach in-classroom, Arrange for In-Class Outreach $1.00 per person, Full Access,
Native Plant Restoration 4th Grade & Up Only Suitable for Older Students 1 Class Up to 4 Hours Sept – May In Development Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Hands-on at site & On-Site Class Trip if possible some grassy areas
Sunset $1.00 per person, Loose sand inclines, very difficult
State Beach Dune Walks Short to Moderate Guided Walk Any Grade/Group 1 Class 1 Hour Year Round None In Development Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
if possible for the mobility-impaired
$1.00 per person, Full Access, route includes dirt
Wetland/Native Plant Walks Short to Moderate Guided Walk Any Grade/Group 1 Class 1 Hour Year Round None In Development Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
if possible road with some gravel
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible

Building Tour, Hands-On 10 – 35 people $1.00 per person, K – 12 Free with

Ranch Tour 2nd – 5th Grade Only Suited to 2nd Grade & Up 1 Hour Year Round None Available w/ Reservation Fully Accessible Yes On Site, ADA Difficult On Site, ADA Difficult
Activities (incl. adults) if possible Reservation
Possibly Difficult for the
10 – 35 people $1.00 per person, K – 12 Free with
Wilder Ranch Nature Walk Moderate Guided Walk 3rd Grade & Up Any, by Prior Arrangement 1.5 Hours Year Round None In Development
if possible
Mobility Impaired Yes On Site, ADA Difficult On Site, ADA Difficult
(incl. adults) Dirt road w/ railroad track Reservation
State Park
Short to Moderate Outdoor Only Suitable for Young 10 – 35 people $1.00 per person, K – 12 Free with
Farm Animal Tour Preschool – 2nd Grade 30 min to 1 Hour Year Round None In Development Fully Accessible Yes On Site, ADA Difficult On Site, ADA Difficult
Walk w/Activities Students (incl. adults) if possible Reservation
K – 12 Free with
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Difficult
Reservation
Big Basin Big Basin, Yesterday, Workshop Available K – 12 Free with
Self-Guided 3rd – 6th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement Varies Varies Year Round Attend Workshop Varies, Please Inquire Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
State Park Today & Tomorrow w/ Reservation Reservation
Short to Moderate Outdoor $1.00 per person, K – 12 Free with
Redwood Loop Tour K – 4th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1 to 1.5 Hours Year Round None Available w/ Reservation Fully Accessible Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
Walk w/Activities if possible Reservation
Henry Cowell
Moderate Outdoor Walk $1.00 per person, K – 12 Free with
Redwoods Habitat Walk
w/Activities
3rd – High School Any, by Prior Arrangement 1 Class 1.5 to 2 Hours Year Round None Available w/ Reservation
if possible
Fully Accessible
Reservation
Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
State Park K – 12 Free with
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Difficult
Reservation
Self-guided Tours K – 12 Free with
Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Difficult
Rancho Del Oso For classroom outreach info, please call (831) 427-2288. Reservation
State Park $1.00 per person,
Nature & History Walks Short to moderate Guided Walk Any Grade/Group 1 Class 1 to 2 Hours Year Round None In Development if possible Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible None on Site

Seal Walk K – 12 School Bus Free

Año Nuevo ADVANCE Moderate to Long Walk 4th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement
1 Class / Split
2.5 Hours December 16 –
None In Development Fee: Please Inquire Varies, Please Inquire with reservation/fee Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Accessible
(18 students March 31
State Reserve RESERVATIONS
plus 2 adults) for private autos
MANDATORY
Pigeon Point K – 12 Free with
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Difficult
Light Station Reservation
Hands-On Activities $1.00 per person,
Plant Walk 3rd-6th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement Please Inquire 1.5 to 2 Hours Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes Please Inquire Please Inquire
Montara & Short Walk if possible
State Beach Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire
K – 12 Free with
Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Difficult
Reservation
Hands-On Activities $1.00 per person,
Snowy Plover Walk 2nd –5th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement Please Inquire 1.5 to 2 Hours Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible Please Inquire
& Short Walk if possible
Half Moon Bay Hands-On Activities & Short $1.00 per person,
State Beach Bird Watching Walk 3rd – 6th Grade Only Suited for 3rd Grade & Up Please Inquire 1.5 to 2 Hours Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible Please Inquire
Walk if possible
Hands-On Activities $1.00 per person,
Sandy Beach Habitat Walk 1st- – 6th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement Please Inquire .5 to 1 hour Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible Please Inquire
& Short Walk if possible
Hands-On Activities $1.00 per person,
Dune Plant Walk 3rd – 6th Grade Any, by Prior Arrangement Please Inquire 1 to 2 Hours Year Round None In Development Varies, Please Inquire Free with Reservation Yes On Site, ADA Accessible Please Inquire
& Short Walk if possible
K – 12 Free with
Self-guided Tours Any, by Prior Arrangement Year Round None Varies, Please Inquire Yes On Site, ADA Accessible On Site, ADA Difficult
Reservation

4 5
 How It’s Done Lots More than Fun!
H
ow do the Santa Cruz District State Parks
manage to provide so much educational
programming with the reduced staffing
of recent years?Volunteers!
Our district is privileged to have one of the
largest rosters of active volunteers in the state. In
2004 Santa Cruz District Volunteers donated over
1,000 hours of their valuable time to school group
programs. Multiply that number by how many
students were at those programs, and you can see
why this District is so proud of our volunteer
involvement.
Do you know someone who feels strongly about
improving education, but can’t quite connect with
the needs of the local School District? Maybe vol-
▼Volunteers have so much fun! Imagine baking
California State Parks is second only to the Department of Education for providing school-aged children
Special Events Calendar 2006
with educational programming opportunities in California.
In Santa Cruz District, 898 school programs were given inside the parks during the 2004/2005 school FEBRUARY 20 & 21 Wings Over the Basin 30 Big Basin Founders’ Day & Redwood
year, with 29,000 participants being educated by staff or docents. There were an additional 30 programs Big Basin Redwoods State Park Jubilee • Big Basin Redwoods State Park
11 Migration Festival • Seacliff State Beach, This weekend is in honor of Big Basin birds, and 10:00A.M. – 10:00P.M.
given in the schools themselves with 1292 participants. All this totals up to 44,448 hours of school program Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Natural
education last year here in Santa Cruz County, and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks provided the financial those who love them. Highlights include Campfire Honor the visionaries, valued workers, and
Bridges State Beach 11:00 A.M. – 4:00P.M Programs and a Marbled Murrelet Survey. Early visitors who have shaped the character of Big Basin
support for these interpretive programs. Santa Cruz State Parks celebrates the migration of
Morning Bird Walks will be offered for beginners over the past 103 years. Tour vintage camping trail-
What makes a great school program? Years ago, fun and excitement were some of the highest criteria our region’s diverse wildlife with events, educational
and enthusiasts alike. Special camping arrangements ers and learn to roll a bedroll in Camping through
required for a field trip, but in this era of budget cuts and standardized testing, teachers need good support booths, speakers, and activities for kids of all ages.
can be made by calling (831) 338-3944. Presented the Ages. Meet the first female ranger and see the
for their efforts. All of our local State Park school programs have been carefully planned to correspond with The theme for the event is “State Parks Are Making
in collaboration with the Santa Cruz Bird Club. park through the eyes of a naturalist at Coffee with a
California Content Standards when possible. Please inquire during the reservation process for more informa- Way for Wildlife”; featuring how parks provide a
Ranger. Revel in the beauty of the majestic old
tion on what Content Standards may apply to your specific program. safe path and essential habitat for animals in migra-
JUNE growth redwoods that inspired the movement Save
tion. Information: (831) 423-4609.
3 Festival at the Cement Ship the Trees! And celebrate our wild heritage with a
Seacliff State Beach 11:00A.M. – 4:00P.M. melodrama, music, and crafts for kids. Information:
Where is the Oldest Display ? 11 & 12 Romance in the Redwoods

Celebrate the unique history of the WW1 Concrete (831) 338-3944.

unteering for State Parks is the answer. Volunteer Guided walk at Big Basin Redwoods State Park
cookies with the kids the old fashioned way!

Ship Palo Alto, the natural wonders of Seacliff ’s fos-

opportunities can be long– or short-term. Please Meet at Park Headquarters at 11:00A.M.
call the individual parks for information.
Seacliff State Beach conducts Fossil Discover for yourself how similar—and dissimilar—
Walks, where students might be the we are from our redwood neighbors as we take a
Valentine peek behind nature’s curtain. On this
first human to uncover and see a fossil easy, 1-hour walk you can learn about the courtship
that is over 1.2 million years old. behaviors of banana slugs, newts, woodpeckers, and
redwood trees as your guide shares stories of
sil beds, and the many animals that call the
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary their
home. Enjoy music, fun and food. Experience the
park’s history through arts, crafts, games and stories.
Make a kite to fly on the beach. Visit educational
booths to learn about our animal friends. Find the
OCTOBER
8 Welcome Back Monarchs Day
Natural Bridges State Beach 10:00A.M. – 4:00P.M.
Join us for this joyful, monarch-filled day and wel-
come the monarchs back to this park, their over-
wintering habitat. Participate in numerous activities

?
perfect gift in our Park Store or at one of the ven- including arts and crafts, active games for kids,

? ?
singing, dancing, and even pre-nuptial gift giving
creatures. Although material is scientific in nature,
the subject matter may be more appropriate for
mature audiences. For added fun, bring a picnic
dors’ booths. Information: (831) 685-6444.

JULY
music by the 5M’s (the mostly mediocre musical
monarch mariposas), hand-cranked “monarch” ice
cream (pumpkin), information and action booths as
3 Talent Show! • Big Basin well as more about monarch butterflies and how-to’s
lunch to share with your sweetie in the redwoods for a butterfly garden. Information: (831)423-4609.
Redwoods State Park 8:00P.M.

Park Hours & Contact Info

Please note: the addresses below are for mailing.
San Mateo Coast
afterwards! Information: (831) 338-3944.

APRIL
8 Spring at the Mission Adobe • Santa Cruz
A participatory campfire program. In the historic
tradition of Big Basin Campfires, the oldest campfire
circle in state parks, the entertainment for the
28 Heritage Harvest Festival
Wilder Ranch State Park 11:00A.M. – 4:00P.M.
Directions to state parks are in italics.
Mountain Parks Natural History Mission State Historic Park Noon – 4:00P.M.
This event focuses on how spring affected the
evening will come from the talent pool of campers
and staff. Come to enjoy the program or call
Celebrate: the harvest is in! See tractor, drafthorse
and other living history demonstrations, listen to

Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks Foundation Association native life ways and new Spanish skills that
were practiced in combination at this site,
(831) 338-3944 to sign up your act! music, do crafts, try your hand at harvest-time
activities. Food available for sale, or bring a picnic
Free ! 4 1906 Independence Day Celebration • Wilder lunch. Information: (831) 426-0505.
Natural Bridges State Beach Santa Cruz Mission State Big Basin State Park Año Nuevo and include crafts, outdoor cooking, equip-
Ranch State Park 11:00A.M. – 4:00P.M.
(831)423-4609 Historic Park (831)466-0550 t 1-800-444-4445 t ment demonstrations and living history activi-
Visit Wilder Ranch’s historic cultural pre- 28 The Missing Arm of William Waddell
2531 West Cliff Drive (831)425-5849 t (831)338-8863 f (650)879-2031 f ties. This adobe structure was built by Native
serve and step back 100 years as you par- Big Basin Redwoods State Park 6:30P.M.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831)429-1840 f 21600 Big Basin Way New Year’s Creek Rd American labor during the the waning days of
ticipate in a 1906-style Independence History takes tall tale twist as the saga of this early
*end of West Cliff Drive, north end 144 School Street Boulder Creek, CA 95006 Pescadero, CA 94060 Mission Santa Cruz’s existence. Designed as native
Day celebration including a noon family pioneer unfolds. The silly, slightly haunting tours
of Santa Cruz Santa Cruz, CA 95060 * 9 miles outside of Boulder Creek *Hwy 1, Pescadero worker “family apartments,” it is the only original
parade, games, children’s crafts area, music, around the redwood loop trail begin at 7:00P.M.
Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily *Take Hwy 1 north to its intersection on Hwy 236 Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily of its kind in California today. Information:
living history demonstrations, historic speeches and Enjoy the redwoods on an autumn night with
Visitor Center Hours: 10AM–4PM with Mission St and turn left. Turn Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily (831) 425-5849.
flag-raising. Food and drink available for sale, or music, storytelling, and “Ranger
(Varies) left on Emmet St next to Mission Visitor Center Hours: Daily Montara State Beach bring a picnic lunch. Information: (831) 426-0505. Apple Pies” around the campfire.
Plaza and right on School St. 10AM–4PM (650)726-8804 t 15 Spring Garden Planting Day All participants must register at
New Brighton State Beach Park Hours: Thurs–Sun 10-4PM (650)726-8816 f Wilder Ranch State Park 11A.M. – 3 P.M.
28, 29 & 30 Tales of the Basin • Big Basin Park Headquarters. Parking is $5
Visitor Center Hours: Thurs-Sun Henry Cowell Redwoods 95 Kelly Ave Help plant the heirloom vegetable garden as per vehicle. Information: (831) 338-3944.
(831)685-6444 t Redwoods State Park
10AM–4PM State Park Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 it would have been c.1900. Also enjoy com-
(831)685-6443 f The oral tradition comes to life with the ancient
(831)335-7077 *8 miles north of Half Moon Bay posting information, gardening information NOVEMBER
Santa Cruz District redwood forest as a backdrop. Events of this week-
Seacliff State Beach 101 N Big Trees Park Rd on Hwy 1 and children’s garden crafts. The event is held on
303 Big Trees Park Road end include Big Basin Nature Tails for children of all 18 134th Anniversary Celebration
(831)685-6444 t ATTN: Docent Coordinator Henry Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily the grounds of the Wilder Ranch Cultural Preserve.
Felton, CA 95018 ages, guided walks that spin a yarn along the trail, Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
(831)685-6443 f Cowell SP Information: (831) 426-0505.
*in Capitola; take New Brighton/Park and a Storyteller Showcase in the historic Campfire Festivities all day with lighting from 6–8:00P.M.
Ave exit off Hwy 1, turn right at bot- Santa Cruz District Felton, CA 95018 Pigeon Point Lighthouse Center. Presented in collaboration with South Bay California State Parks, Pigeon Point Hostel, and the
MAY
tom of ramp, and left at 1st stop sign. 303 Big Trees Park Road *off Hwy 9 in Felton (650)726-8804 Storytellers. Information: (831) 338-3944. US Coast Guard will commemorate the 134th
Follow the road to park gate. Felton, CA 95018 Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily (650)726-8816
13 Bug Day • Henry Cowell Anniversary of the first lighting of Pigeon Point
Park Hours: 8AM–10PM Summer *off Hwy 1 in Aptos. From Santa Visitor Center Hours: 10AM–4PM 95 Kelly Ave Redwoods State Park 1:00P.M. – 4:00P.M. SEPTEMBER Lighthouse. This annual event features an open
Sunrise-Sunset Winter Cruz, take Hwy 1 south to State (Varies) Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 Come on kids, let’s go buggy! Make new discoveries house in the historic fog signal building from 10A.M.
about a wide variety of bugs through interactive
16 Ohlone Day • Henry Cowell Redwoods State
Park Drive exit *on Hwy 1, 25 miles north of until 7P.M. The highlight of the evening is from
Park 10:00A.M. – 4:00P.M.
Forest of Nisene Marks
Park Hours: 8AM–10PM Summer
Sunrise–Sunset Winter
Waddell Creek Santa Cruz
Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily
games, puppet shows, art projects, nature walks,
and displays. Kids can earn a degree in “Bugology” Celebrate the Ohlone People of the past with those 6–8P.M. when the historic lighthouse’s Fresnel Lens
lights up the sky. Exhibits in the 1899 Fog Signal
State Park of the present at Ohlone Day. You will see tradi-
(831)763-7123 t
Visitor Center Hours: Wed–Sun
10AM–4PM
Association Half Moon Bay
as they find out about the diversity of wildlife
found in this park. Information: (831) 335-7077. tional dancers and Ohlone demonstrators will share Building will feature lighthouse history, videos,
marine mammals, and the Monterey Bay National
(831)763-7124 f traditional basketry, songs, stories, tools, musical
Rancho Del Oso Marine Sanctuary. Information: (650) 879-2120.
201 Sunset Beach Road (650)726-8804 t instruments, soap root brushes, language and his-
Sunset State Beach (831)427-2288 14 Mother’s Day Walk: Women of Big Basin
Watsonville, CA 95076 (650)726-8816 f tory. Throw an atlatl, make a tule craft, play
(831)763-7123 t 3600 Hwy One Big Basin Redwoods State Park DECEMBER
*Entrance on Aptos Creek Road, from 95 Kelly Ave Ohlone games, and try your hand at fire making.
(831)763-7124 f Davenort, CA 95017 Meet at Park Headquarters at 2:00P.M. 16 Holiday Time on the Ranch
Aptos Station in Aptos Village Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 Information: (831) 335-7077.
201 Sunset Beach Road *2 miles south of Año Nuevo (or 16 Celebrate Mother’s Day in the park by honoring the Wilder Ranch State Park 11:00A.M. – 3:00P.M.
Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily *half-mile west of Hwy 1
Watsonville, CA 95076 miles north of Santa Cruz) just off spirited women who lived in, worked in, and Celebrate the winter holidays as folks did in
on Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay 23 Mission Adobe Day • Santa Cruz Mission
*just outside Watsonville off Hwy 1. Turn at the 1st road south of fought for the Basin throughout its history. Meet California, Victorian, and early 20th century Santa
Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily State Historic Park Noon – 4:00P.M.
Manresa State Beach San Andreas Road the Waddell Creek bridge and follow pioneer Alice Maddock, the Savior of the Redwoods,
Visitor Center Hours: 10AM–4PM This event specializes in the rhythms of autumn in Cruz with crafts to do, games to play, cookies to
(831)763-7123 t Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily the signs. and the first female ranger. One mile, 1.5 hours of decorate, and more. Information: (831) 426-0505.
(Please Inquire) the native life ways and new Spanish skills that
level, easy strolling. Wheelchair and stroller accessi-
(831)763-7124 f
201 Sunset Beach Road
Watsonville, CA 95076
*South of Aptos; from Hwy 1 take San
Wilder Ranch State
Park
? Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily

Where are there Migrating

ble. Information: (831) 338-3944.

20 Celebrate Sunset’s 75th! • Sunset State Beach

(831) 426-0505
Andreas Road southwest and continue
for 3 miles.
1401 Coast Road
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily *2 miles north of Santa
Cruz, coast side Hwy 1
Palm State Beach
Park Hours:
(831)763-7123 t 8AM–Sunset Daily
(831)763-7124 f Visitor Center Hours:
201 Sunset Beach Road Thurs–Sun 10AM–4PM
Watsonville, CA 95076 (Varies)
were practiced in combi-
Free ! nation at this site, and
include crafts, outdoor Where Is Living
cooking, equipment
History Offered ?
?
Sunset State Beach is celebrating its 75th
Animal Programs? Birthday, and you’re invited. This day will
demonstrations and living
history activities. This adobe struc-
Free ! have free day use, with kids’ activities, special
Most of the local parks have, treats, food and demonstrations scheduled
ture was built by Native American Wilder Ranch State Park
labor during the the waning days
for the afternoon. Kids can make and fly their and Santa Cruz Mission
or can arrange for, a program own kites (while supplies last). Come find out
of Mission Santa Cruz’s existence.
Designed as native worker “family
on migrating animals. the details of how the creation of this park was the State Historic Park both
apartments,” it is the only original
will of the citizens of California, hear about how have school programs that
Butterflies? Elephant Seals? the blackouts of WWII made camping here difficult
of its kind in California today.
Free! Information: (831)425-5849.

6
*End of West Beach St., Watsonville
Park Hours: 8AM–Sunset Daily
?
Whales? Seabirds? Just ask
around. ? and be amazed at some of the daring and heroic
rescues on our beach. Held at the Upper Day Use
picnic Ramada. Information: (831) 763-7123.
let students touch, taste
and experience history.
7
 Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
NON PROFIT ORG.
144 School Street
US POSTAGE
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 PAID
APTOS, CA
PERMIT NO. 164

What treasures might you find

in this Primer? Look inside!

MISSION STATEMENT
Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
is dedicated to promoting the
appreciation and stewardship of
our local state parks’ natural and
cultural heritage by facilitating About this Publication:
and supporting educational

P
programs and exhibits.
arkPrimer is the educators’ all-inclusive guide to the State
Visit our new website:
www.scparkfriends.org Parks in the larger Santa Cruz area. Perfect for finding out Friends OF

with information about our SantaCruz

all you need to know before planning your students’ outings. S T A T E P A R K S
exciting projects, programs
and special events.

Educators’ Guide to Santa Cruz State Parks 2006

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ParkPrimer
for membership.
info@scparkfriends.org
Ph: 831-429-1840
Fax:831-429-6748
www.scparkfriends.org

friends
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INTERPRETIVE STAFF Yes, I will support Friends of Santa Cruz Membership Information
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Brina Carey $25 Supporting $500 Gold Address
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144 School Street • Santa Cruz • CA 95060