Santa Clarita is a haven for families who love the outdoors and all the creatures that reside in it. This city, near Los Angeles, has abundant preserves, sanctuaries, and wildlife attractions that are family-friendly and interactive. There's... see more »
Santa Clarita is a haven for families who love the outdoors and all the creatures that reside in it. This city, near Los Angeles, has abundant preserves, sanctuaries, and wildlife attractions that are family-friendly and interactive. There's plenty of hiking and rock climbing opportunities in the canyons and the lakes attract visitors who want to enjoy boating and swimming. So pack your tent, put your tennis shoes on, and head to Santa Clarita! Our online directory has tons of summer camp choices to make the most of your child's time in this great city.
Meet some happy, rescued animals at The Gentle Barn, where there's also an organic garden and views of the mountains. Gentle Barn teaches children to understand and have empathy for animals and for the other humans around them. The presentation explains things like why pigs love mud and why roosters crow. Kids can brush the cows, give pigs tummy rubs, talk to the turkeys, and play with goats and sheep afterwards. This program is also geared towards at-risk youth to teach them how to be protectors, not abusers, and to special needs kids who need a safe and quiet environment.
Learn about the wonders of nature at Placerita Canyon Nature Center. This canyon area has seasonal waterfalls and streams, oak groves, and family-friendly nature hikes. Take a rest and have lunch at the nearby picnic area. Don’t miss out on the several historical landmarks here, such as the “Oak of the Golden Dream” site where you can learn about California’s original gold discovery in 1842. Every Saturday, a family nature walk is offered, as well as a native live animal presentation. Both of these are free! Bird and flower walks take place once a month and are a great way for budding naturalists to gain more knowledge.
Find your child's inner Picasso at KidsArt/Drawn2Art, a studio that teaches fine arts like painting, realistic drawing, cartooning, animation, and clay sculpture to students of all ages. A classical approach is used and children will experience hands-on instruction on becoming a master. There are fun, seasonal classes offered like a monster workshop, where kids can draw and build their own monster as well as a fall workshop, where kids will make a Thanksgiving house and a clay scarecrow. Don’t forget to check out the storybook multimedia workshop designed for children ages 4-6 who want to learn and grow artistically.
« Read less
