Watershed Explorers is an outdoor education program that provides youth an opportunity to travel and experience the length of the San Dieguito Watershed. The explorers journey includes the headwaters of the San Dieguito River on Volcan Mountain, Lake Hodges, the San Diego Archaeological Center, Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead, and the award-winning Birdwing Open Air Classroom at the San Dieguito Lagoon.

Each visit focuses on a different theme providing a unique opportunity for participants to experience and learn about the many facets of the watershed from the natural world to its history and cultural significance. As they experience the outdoors, explorers develop a “sense of place” and appreciation for the environment – recognizing they play a role in preserving and protecting the natural and cultural resources of the watershed.

Officially launched in 2015, this program was developed in partnership with the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy, San Dieguito River Park, San Diego Archaeological Center and Volcan Mountain Foundation as a way for each organization to expand our individual nature education programs.