Park Programs & Events

For more information and updates on programs, please check the black sandwich boards by the Visitor Center and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. All programs are free with entrance fee ($10/vehicle) and do not require a reservation.

Taking a large group (15+ people) on one of our guided hikes? We'd like you to contact us to see if you can book your own private program so there is enough space for everyone. This is a FREE option! This is not a guarantee as it relies on volunteers. Please email us at calaverasbigtreessp@parks.ca.gov or call us at 209-795-7980 as far in advance as possible.

Late Summer - Fall Guided Hikes and Walks

North Grove: 11:30am - about 1:00pm

Saturday - Sunday August 22nd - September 6th plus Labor Day Monday. Saturdays rest of the year.

Level, 1.7 mile loop with dozens of giant sequoias. Learn about the largest individual trees!

*Meet at the trailhead by the Visitor Center

Introduction to North Grove: 1:00pm - 1:45pm

Sundays starting June 14th through September 6th

Level, 0.5 mile walk. Short, accessible introduction to the trees and park history.

*Meet outside Visitor Center

South Grove: 10am - about 1:00pm

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays late May through early September. Sundays also in October

Moderate, 5- 5.5 mile trail. See our very biggest trees in the park! Bring water and snacks/lunch as there is no water or food available at the trailhead.

*Meet at the South Grove trailhead parking lot

Bird Walk: 9:30am - about 11:30am

Thursdays May 28th through September 24th. No experience or gear required.

Level, approx 1 mile walk around the North Grove area, including the campground and meadow. A good introduction to birds and birding!

*Meet outside Visitor Center

Late Summer Kid's Programs

Little Rangers: ages 3-6 and Junior Rangers: ages 7-12

Saturday-Sunday plus Labor Day Monday August 22nd-September 6th

Different topic every day but Tuesday with fun activities!

*Meet at picnic tables across from Jack Knight Hall

Late Summer Evening Programs (2026 Only)

Optical Astronomy Nights (with telescopes!) Thursdays:

August 13th, 8:00pm

August 20th, 7:30pm (moon night)

September 10th, 7:30pm

Night Skies with Doc Nancy (science, constellations, and stories!) Fridays and Saturdays:

Saturday September 5th, 8pm

*Meet at the Scenic Overlook for both astronomy programs. Parking is limited so carpooling is recommended. Please bring your own chairs and blankets!

Campfire Saturdays August 22nd- September 5th.

Saturday campfires do not occur when there is a Night Skies program the same day

*Meet at the Campfire Center by the Visitor Center

Summer Park Programs

Scroll down for a comprehensive list of programs and times!

Guided Hikes are offered throughout the summer season. Days and trails vary.

Little Rangers (formerly Junior Cubs) and Junior Rangers programs are offered in the summer season. Junior Rangers offers fun, educational programs for children ages 7 - 12 years old. The Little Rangers program focuses on engaging and fun educational activities for children ages 3 - 6 years old. 10am, days and topics vary.

Campfire Programs are typically offered mid June through mid August, Friday - Monday each week. Programs begin just before sunset. Bonus Saturday campfires on Memorial and Labor Day weekend.

Astronomy Nights are led by knowledgeable California State Park volunteer docents who share their passion for the night sky. Dates vary.

Creek Critters invites families to explore what lives in Beaver Creek and the importance of a clean watershed. Tuesdays and Saturdays, 1:00pm-2:00pm mid June-mid August, depending on water levels.