Entrance to the Chula Vista Nature Center

The Chula Vista Nature Center is located on the 316-acre Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. The Nature Center is a living museum serving the public with educational facilities and programs, and aids in the restoration and enhancement of the Sweetwater Marsh. Open since 1987, the Nature Center is fully accredited by the American Association of Museums, a distinction held by fewer than 10% of museums in the United States.

Interactive exhibits in the new Wergeland Family Discovery Center describe the history, geology, ecology, natural history, and bio-diversity of Sweetwater Marsh and San Diego bay, from intertidal mudflats to uplands. Exterior exhibits include Turtle Lagoon--home to endangered Green Sea Turtles; the David A. Wergeland Shark & Ray Experience; Eagle Mesa; aviaries housing waterbirds, hawks and owls; bird watching platforms; and drought-tolerant gardens attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. There is a 1.5-mile trail system on the Refuge offering an adventure into the peace and serenity of the upland habitat along San Diego Bay.

Nature Center across the Sweetwater Marsh

California has lost about 90% of its wetlands. The Nature Center’s purpose is to educate the public on the importance of Southern California’s remaining coastal wetlands for migratory and local wildlife, and to promote coastal resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

Programs at the Nature Center are supported by a cadre of more than 100 volunteers who help with education, animal husbandry, and clerical tasks. Animal care and special projects are made possible by community donations.

We are proud of our partnerships with the Chula Vista Elementary School District, Sweetwater Union High School District, Southwestern College, San Diego County Department of Education, Sea World San Diego, the San Diego Wild Animal Park, the Birch Aquarium, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Call (619) 409-5900 for information about outreach, field trips, and weekend programs. Or visit us online at ChulaVistaNatureCenter.org.

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