The Olympia oyster (Ostrea lurida) is the only native oyster found on the West Coast. Scientists from NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) and their collaborators have been monitoring oyster populations at China Camp State Park and areas around San Francisco Bay for many years. NERR senior research technician Anna... Read more »

They swoop. They zoom. They flitter, squeak, and chur. They are the lively and chatty swallows of spring, which arrive this month. We’ll be on the lookout—with eyes and ears—for our three most common species. Tree swallows, which tend to nest in tree cavities, cruise above the meadows and marshes... Read more »

Spring into spring and discover the park’s vibrant wildflowers on a walk through our oak woodland forest. This gently rolling stroll leads us to seasonal favorites such as Coast mule’s ears, blue-eyed grass, star lilies, California poppies, and Douglas irises. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of China Camp’s beautiful... Read more »

Look up! When skies are clear and the sun sets, you can’t miss this month’s dazzling array of natural night lights: a delicate crescent moon, brilliant Venus shining on the horizon, and mighty Jupiter glowing overhead. Come see these and other evening dazzlers with volunteers from Marin Stargazers. They’ll bring... Read more »

Are you curious about our little celestial shadow? This month, we will discuss Our Moon: How Earth's Celestial Companion Transformed the Planet, Guided Evolution, and Made Us Who We Are by Rebecca Boyle. This engaging book explores the moon’s profound influence on Earth’s climate, tides, and even the evolution of... Read more »