Ever hear of a “butterfly seed bomb”? That would be a clay ball full of native wildflower seeds you huck into the wild, where it’ll sprout to provide nectar for migrating Monarchs.
You can make a butterfly seed bomb – and go birding in salt marshes, take guided tours of wildfire burn zones and partake in shinrin-yoku aka “forest bathing” – during California State Parks Week, which runs from June 14-18.
Now in its second year, the event celebrates California’s 280 state parks with an array of unique activities geared to get you out of the house and exploring nature. You can find the full list at castateparksweek.org, but in the meantime here’s a sampling of what’s happening around the Bay Area. Note that some events require advanced reservations, and others marked as free still require entrance or day-use fees for those parks:
June 14
Mount Tamalpais State Park, 9:15 a.m., “Forest Bathing”
Forest bathing is designed to help outdoors lovers absorb the calming atmosphere of natural places. There are multiple sessions — but you can combine several for a longer experience — starting at 9:15 a.m. with a mostly seated session at the picnic area near Hang Glider Site #1 on West Ridgecrest Blvd. A second session starts at 10:30 a.m. From 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., enjoy a guided forest-bathing walk with a certified guide along Lower Old Mine Trail. The meeting area is the Pantoll parking lot. Contact [email protected] for details.
Mount Diablo State Park, 9:30 a.m. “Summer Surprises”
“The green hills turn golden. The muddy trails turn dusty. It’s easy to assume nothing’s going on,” park rangers say on the site. “But nature’s stories are continuing all around us! Join us for a leisurely walk to search for summer’s surprises such as hidden blooms and their busy pollinators.” Reservations are required for this program, which is appropriate for ages 7 and up; RSVP to [email protected].
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, 10 a.m. “Guided History Walk”
This 2-hour, light-to-moderate walk through the Forest of Nisene Marks starts at the George’s Picnic Area next to the steel bridge, about one mile past the kiosk. The event is free, parking is $8. Bring water and snacks. Call 831-685-6444 for more information.
Angel Island, 10:30 a.m., “Explore the Ecology of Angel Island”
This 1.5-mile hike, which includes stairs and unpaved trails, explores the various life forms on Angel Island, how different species are related and wildlife and island ecology. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Meet at 10:30 a.m. at the ‘Welcome’ sign at the ferry dock on Angel Island. Limited to the first 25 participants to reserve a spot. Find ferry information at https://www.goldengate.org/ferry/angel-island-ferry/ and https://angelislandferry.com. For more information, contact [email protected].
June 15
Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, 10 a.m.. “Nourish Your Body & Mind”
This wellness experience includes nature journaling on a stroll through the park — bring your own nature journal — and learning to make fruit smoothies. Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. Meet at the park office parking lot (1150 Carroll Ave.). Free event. Contact [email protected] for more details.
Natural Bridges State Beach, 11 a.m., “Animal Yoga”
Join a park interpreter for yoga on the beach, including poses inspired by Natural Bridges wildlife, then take a brief introductory walk to the tidepools.
June 16
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park / Fall Creek Unit, 10 a.m., “Fall Creek After Fire”
Explore how the landscape — trees, wildflowers, birds and more — have responded to the CZU Lightning Complex wildfire, and learn about iNaturalist, so you can help park staff track how the landscape is responding. Contact [email protected] for more information.
June 17
China Camp State Park, noon, “Nature for All: An ADA-Accessible Community Celebration”
Check out the grand reopening of rebuilt handicap-accessible features and facilities at China Camp State Park, then take an educational and accessible nature excursion along Shoreline Trail, beginning at Back Ranch Meadows Campground. Details: [email protected].
June 18
Benicia State Recreation Area, 10 a.m., “What a Bird Eats”
This salt marsh walking tour will focus on three bird families and explore how their diet is dictated by their adaptations.
Natural Bridges State Beach, 1 p.m., “Butterfly Seed Bomb Making”
Make native wildflower seed balls to provide food for migrating Monarchs. The balls remain dormant until the first rains, when the clay washes away and the seeds are sown naturally. Bring a hat and sunscreen and wear closed-toed shoes. Email [email protected] for more information.
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