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As Laguna Coast Wilderness Park's new headquarters, the Nix Nature Center is the gateway for recreational users to explore a vast network of linked trails
throughout the 20,000-acre South Coast Regional Wilderness. The nature center's picture windows frame four main views into the surrounding parklands, challenging visitors of all ages to consider the wilderness from
various perspectives. An easy, ½-mile loop trail just outside the center encourages visitors to appreciate the park's natural beauty. Restrooms with changing tables, drinking fountains, picnic tables, free maps and
nature-oriented merchandise are available on site. Call the park at 949-923-2235 for program information.
Location:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park at Little Sycamore Canyon on SR 133, north of the 73 Tollroad and 3.5 miles south of the I-405 and SR 133 interchange
Schedule:
9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, including holidays; free admission
Parking: Lot open 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; $3
Funding:
- TOTAL NATURE CENTER BUDGET: $3.4 million
- James and Rosemary Nix gift to Laguna Canyon Foundation for nature center building: $500,000
- Voter-approved 2000 state park bond funds: $1.5 million
- County of Orange--Harbors Beaches and Parks Department: $750,000
- Laguna Canyon Foundation funding from private donations and voter-approved 2000 state park bond for interpretive exhibit program: $300,000
- Laguna Canyon Foundation pledge for construction (actively seeking additional funding for the nature center building): $250,000
Architects: Roesling Nakamura Terada Architects, Inc.; Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects
Exhibit Design: The Acorn Group, SoLa Creative and the Shop @ Show Ready
Total Area of Buildings (exhibit and administration): 3,000 square feet
Total Exhibit Space:
2,300 square feet
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