When it comes to a fully displaying nature’s vast splendor, it is tough to beat Southern California. The variety of landscapes are hard to imagine, so you will just have to go see for yourself! Here are just three nature centers in Southern California that show off some of what our corner of the Golden State has to offer. All are perfect SoCal day trips for the family that loves nature.

Located on the northern part of the San Gabriel Mountains, Devil’s Punchbowl is just a quick trip north of Los Angeles.
Matthew McPherson/Wikipedia
You can witness the long distance between peak and valley, as the top of the mountains reach 8,000 feet, while the Punchbowl Canyon is 300 feet deep. The horizontal layers of rocks were formed long ago from water. It's a fascinating scene to take in for all the geology-lovers out there.
The Devil's Punchbowl Nature Center is managed by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation.
Devil's Punchbowl, California 93553, USA
Matthew Dillon
The Nature Center has many amenities: animal presentations, horseback riding, outdoor stages, museums, and more. There is something for everyone to enjoy! Hours vary by season, so please refer to the website, linked below, before embarking on your adventure.

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If you are especially interested in native Southern California plants and animals, then the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista is perfect for you.
Living Coast Discovery Center, 1000 Gunpowder Point Dr, Chula Vista, CA 91910, USA
Brocken Inaglory/Wikipedia
The Living Coast Discovery Center has several enticing exhibits, including an eagle viewing area, an aviary, and a sting ray pool.. One of the most popular exhibits is the Turtle Lagoon, featuring the majestic Eastern Pacific green sea turtle.
On the southeastern part of the Santa Ana Mountains lies the over 7,000 acre Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve.
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Preserve, 39400 Clinton Keith Rd, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
Geographer/Wikipedia
The Santa Rosa Plateau habitat features prairie grasses and shrubs one may not think of when picturing Southern California. It is unique with its prairie grass, woodlands, and rolling hills.
One of the region's best nature preserves, this is a great spot for hiking in Southern California, where you can encounter many species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and wildflowers.
Scottthezombie/Wikipedia
The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Preserve is a well-maintained gem with easy access just west of Murrieta. There are many trails of varying ease to use, whether on foot, bike, or horseback.

 

Do you and your family love all things nature? If so, Devil’s Punchbowl, Living Coast Discovery Center, and Santa Rosa Plateau are wonderful Southern California nature centers that are perfect for a quick trip.

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