Crystal Cove Conservancy Events

Saturday November 14 through November 15

Crystal Cove State Park, Upper Moro Lot, 8471 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651, United States

2026 Discovery Series: Backpacking 101

2026 Discovery Series: Backpacking 101 November 14 – 15, 2026 Have you ever wanted to try backpacking, but weren’t quite sure where to begin? Maybe you’ve looked at all the gear and wondered what you actually need. Maybe you’re comfortable hiking but aren’t sure how to plan for an overnight. Or maybe spending a night under the stars has been on your list for years, and you just need a little guidance to take that first step. Discovery Series: Backpacking 101 is designed to help you make the leap. Created specifically for beginner backpackers, this multi-session experience will take you from learning the fundamentals to spending a night in Crystal Cove State Park’s backcountry. Together, we’ll demystify the gear, planning, and preparation that can make backpacking feel intimidating and give you the practical skills and confidence to get out there. We’ll start with a two-hour classroom workshop on October 29, where your guides Erin and Nick will walk you through everything you need to prepare for an overnight on the trail. We’ll talk backpacks and pack weight, tents and sleep systems, food and water, clothing and layers, navigation, safety, Leave No Trace, and the little lessons backpackers usually learn through experience. Then you’ll have two weeks to prepare, practice, and get comfortable with your gear. Have questions along the way? Bring your pack, tent, sleep system, or packing list to our optional office hours on November 5, and we’ll help you troubleshoot. Then comes the fun part. On November 14, we’ll meet at Crystal Cove, spread out our gear, and pack our backpacks together. Once everyone is ready, we’ll shoulder our packs and head into the backcountry for an overnight at Lower Moro Environmental Campground. By the time we return, you won’t just know more about backpacking. You’ll have done it. No previous backpacking experience is required. If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to learn in a supportive environment, ask questions, and experience your first overnight alongside knowledgeable guides and fellow adventurers, this is it. Program at a glance: Who Is This For?This program is designed for beginner backpackers. You don’t need previous backpacking experience, and you don’t need to already know what you’re doing. That’s why we’re here. Participants should, however, be comfortable hiking several miles over uneven terrain and be prepared to carry their personal overnight equipment. If you’re already a hiker and have been curious about taking the next step into backpacking, this program was made for you. SESSION 1: Backpacking 101 Classroom Workshop – OCTOBER 29Date: Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 | 4 – 6 p.m. Location: Cottage #34, Crystal Cove State Park Historic District This two-hour workshop will give you the foundation you need to prepare for our overnight. We’ll cover gear, pack fit and organization, shelter and sleep systems, clothing, food and water, cooking, navigation, safety, Leave No Trace principles, and more. You’ll leave with a detailed packing list and a clear plan for preparing over the following two weeks. Learn how to prepare for an overnight backpacking trip, including: – Choosing and fitting a backpack – What gear you actually need – Tents, sleeping bags, and sleep systems – Packing and weight distribution – Clothing and layering – Backpacking food and camp cooking – Hydration and water treatment – Navigation – Weather and safety – Leave No Trace – Preparing for your first overnight Optional Backpacking Office HoursDate: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Location: Cottage #5, Crystal Cove State Park Historic District Still wondering whether your sleeping bag will be warm enough? Can’t figure out how everything is supposed to fit in your pack? Bring your gear and questions and stop by for individualized help from Erin and Nick. Drop in anytime between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. No need to stay for the full day. SESSION 2: Guided Backpacking Experience – NOVEMBER 14 – 15Saturday, Nov. 14 — Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026 Meeting Location: Berns Amphitheater Meeting Time: Saturday, 8 a.m. Camping Location: Lower Moro Environmental Campground, Crystal Cove State Park Estimated Return: Sunday, 12 p.m. (noon) We’ll begin Saturday morning with a hands-on gear and packing session before heading into the backcountry together. Once we’re on the trail, this becomes your opportunity to put everything you’ve learned into practice. We’ll hike to camp, set up our shelters and sleep systems, prepare dinner, spend the night in Crystal Cove’s backcountry, and wake up the following morning to breakfast before packing up and hiking back together. Additional information about parking, the route, food and water, required equipment, waivers, weather, and final trip logistics will be provided before the program. Meet Your Guides Erin Andreatta Nick Burciaga This program is designed for beginner backpackers. You don’t need previous backpacking experience, and you don’t need to already know what you’re doing. That’s why we’re here. Participants should, however, be comfortable hiking several miles over uneven terrain and be prepared to carry their personal overnight equipment. If you’re already a hiker and have been curious about taking the next step into backpacking, this program was made for you. Date: Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 | 4 – 6 p.m. Location: Cottage #34, Crystal Cove State Park Historic District This two-hour workshop will give you the foundation you need to prepare for our overnight. We’ll cover gear, pack fit and organization, shelter and sleep systems, clothing, food and water, cooking, navigation, safety, Leave No Trace principles, and more. You’ll leave with a detailed packing list and a clear plan for preparing over the following two weeks. Learn how to prepare for an overnight backpacking trip, including: – Choosing and fitting a backpack – What gear you actually need – Tents, sleeping bags, and sleep systems – Packing and weight distribution – Clothing and layering – Backpacking food and camp cooking – Hydration and water treatment – Navigation – Weather and safety – Leave No Trace – Preparing for your first overnight Date: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Location: Cottage #5, Crystal Cove State Park Historic District Still wondering whether your sleeping bag will be warm enough? Can’t figure out how everything is supposed to fit in your pack? Bring your gear and questions and stop by for individualized help from Erin and Nick. Drop in anytime between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. No need to stay for the full day. Saturday, Nov. 14 — Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026 Meeting Location: Berns Amphitheater Meeting Time: Saturday, 8 a.m. Camping Location: Lower Moro Environmental Campground, Crystal Cove State Park Estimated Return: Sunday, 12 p.m. (noon) We’ll begin Saturday morning with a hands-on gear and packing session before heading into the backcountry together. Once we’re on the trail, this becomes your opportunity to put everything you’ve learned into practice. We’ll hike to camp, set up our shelters and sleep systems, prepare dinner, spend the night in Crystal Cove’s backcountry, and wake up the following morning to breakfast before packing up and hiking back together. Additional information about parking, the route, food and water, required equipment, waivers, weather, and final trip logistics will be provided before the program. Erin Andreatta Nick Burciaga Registration:Registration includes: – October 29 Backpacking 101 classroom workshop – Detailed backpacking packing and preparation guide – Optional November 5 drop-in office hours – Hands-on gear and pack review – November 14 – 15 guided backpacking experience – Overnight camping at Lower Moro Environmental Campground – Instruction and support from Erin and Nick throughout the experience Capacity: 15 participants Space is intentionally limited so participants receive plenty of hands-on instruction and individualized support throughout the experience. For questions, please reach out to Erin Andreatta at [email protected].

Crystal Cove State Park, Upper Moro Lot, 8471 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651, United States

Saturday November 21 8:30am - 12:00pm MST

Stewardship Saturday

Welcome to Crystal Cove Conservancy’s and Crystal Cove State Park’s Stewardship Event!Come help us on a habitat restoration project during Stewardship Saturday! This volunteer event is open to all and offers a hands-on way to connect with Crystal Cove’s natural beauty a......More

Saturday November 21 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Explore the Cove – Coastal Ecology Hike

This guided interpretive hike explores Crystal Cove State Park’s sandy shoreline and coastal bluffs, offering an up-close look at the plants, animals, and ecosystems that define our marine and coastal environment. Participants will walk along the beach and blufftop, sto......More

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Saturday November 21 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Historic District Walking Tour

During this 60-minute tour guided by Conservancy educators, participants will step back in time to explore the history of Crystal Cove State Park and the Historic District’s rescue and restoration. No registration required. When: 1:00-2:00 PM Where to Meet: Visitor’s Ce......More

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Sunday November 22 8:00am - 11:30am MST

Berns Amphitheatre

Explore the Cove – Backcountry Ecology Hike

Set in the heart of Crystal Cove’s rugged backcountry, this immersive hike ventures into Moro Canyon to explore some of Southern California’s most unique and threatened ecosystems. Participants will learn about coastal sage scrub, riparian corridors, and the rare plant ......More

Berns Amphitheatre

Thursday December 3 4:00pm - 6:30pm MST

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Tree Preview Party for Members, Volunteers & Partners

This event is invitation-only. We’re celebrating Crystal Cove Conservancy’s members, volunteers, and partners with a Tree Preview Party! Join us for a festive evening featuring carolers, light bites, drinks, and a special preview of the holiday lights at the Cove. Join ......More

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Saturday December 5 10:00am - 6:00pm MST

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove

Experience the magic of the holidays at Crystal Cove! The 30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market brings our community together for a festive day of coastal tradition, local artisans, and holiday joy. Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts at the Holiday Market, bring ......More

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Friday December 11 9:00am - 1:00pm MST

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Members Holiday Plein Air Art Workshop

Celebrate the holiday season with a festive morning of painting, creativity, and community at Crystal Cove State Park! Join Crystal Cove Conservancy and plein air artist Debbie Morines for a special members-only holiday painting workshop in the heart of the Historic Dis......More

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Saturday December 12 9:00am - 2:30pm MST

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Family Holiday Plein Air Art Workshop

Gather the family for a festive day of creativity at Crystal Cove State Park! Join Crystal Cove Conservancy for a special holiday plein air painting workshop in the heart of the Historic District. Inspired by Crystal Cove’s beloved holiday tree and beautiful coastal sur......More

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Saturday December 12 10:00am - 2:00pm MST

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Holiday Family Art Day

Celebrate the holiday season with a day of art, nature, and discovery at Crystal Cove! Join the Conservancy’s Programs team for a family-friendly celebration filled with hands-on activities, creative crafts, and opportunities to explore the wonders of the natural world.......More

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Saturday December 12 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Explore the Cove – Coastal Ecology Hike

Education Commons, 5 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA, 92657, United States

Saturday December 12 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Historic District Walking Tour

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District

Sunday December 13 8:00am - 11:30am MST

Berns Amphitheatre

Explore the Cove – Backcountry Ecology Hike

Berns Amphitheatre

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2026 Discovery Series: Backpacking 101

Stewardship Saturday

Explore the Cove – Coastal Ecology Hike

Historic District Walking Tour

Explore the Cove – Backcountry Ecology Hike

Tree Preview Party for Members, Volunteers & Partners

30th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Crystal Cove

Members Holiday Plein Air Art Workshop

Family Holiday Plein Air Art Workshop

Holiday Family Art Day

Explore the Cove – Coastal Ecology Hike

Historic District Walking Tour

Explore the Cove – Backcountry Ecology Hike

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