DISCOVER. EXPLORE. ENGAGE.

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Video credit by Jim Hargrove

Our Mission

The Effie Yeaw Nature Center is dedicated to providing educational and interpretive programs and information about the natural environment, principally in the American River Parkway.

Effie Yeaw Nature Center is a community outreach initiative of the American River

Natural History Association (ARNHA). For

almost 50 years, this diverse biological ecosystem and culturally significant region has been a notable landmark in the Sacramento area for nature enthusiasts, explorers, and citizen scientists. Nestled within the tranquil beauty of Ancil Hoffman Park, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center is an unique experience for those seeking to engage with the wonders of the natural world.

About Us

Services

Support Us

Learn About Donations, Memberships and More

Info

Find Hours, Parking, and Directions to Effie Yeaw

ARNHA

Meet the Dedicated Board Team Supporting Effie Yeaw's Mission

Education

Discover Field Trips and Group Programs at Effie Yeaw

Animal Ambassadors

Learn About Effie Yeaw's Fascinating Wildlife Residents

Shop Effie Yeaw

Discover Nature-Inspired Gifts and Souvenirs

Events Calendar

Explore Effie Yeaw's Monthly Calendar and Events

Citizen Science

Check Out Effie Yeaw's Wildlife Research Efforts

Get Involved - Volunteer

Join Effie Yeaw's Community And Contribute to Conservation

Start the Journey

"Discover. Explore. Engage." is more than just a motto—it's a call to action at Effie Yeaw Nature Center. Through immersive educational programs, captivating exhibits, and dynamic experiences, we invite visitors of all ages to discover the wonders of nature, explore the beauty of the American River Parkway, and engage with the natural world in meaningful ways. Whether you're participating in our special events, embarking on a guided hike, or simply taking in the serene surroundings, each visit is an opportunity to deepen your connection to the environment and inspire a lifelong love of nature. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, exploration, and engagement in the great outdoors.

Who We Are

DISCOVER

Nestled within Carmichael's urban landscape, Effie Yeaw Nature Center offers a verdant 100-acre sanctuary along the American River Parkway. Explore our rich natural history and learn about conservation efforts spanning nearly five decades. From its humble beginnings with the occasional part-time ranger, we've evolved into a vibrant hub of environmental education. With over 500 volunteers and 90,000 annual visitors, our impact continues to grow. Join us in preserving this natural haven and be part of our legacy of conservation and education.

Click here for the 2023 Winter ACORN

Archived ACORN

EXPLORE

Embark on an adventure at Effie Yeaw Nature Center's EXPLORE attractions. Traverse our Nature Study Area, uncover the region's past at the Natural History Museum, and wander through the vibrant Pollinator and Butterfly garden. Delight in Lowe's "Montessori inspired" playscape, explore the interpretive cultural demonstration area of Maidu Village, and find tranquility by the American River. Encounter resident animals and let the wonders of EYNC ignite your curiosity.

Trail Map of American River Parkway

Trail Map of Nature Study Area

ENGAGE

Your help is crucial in sustaining our mission of environmental education and conservation. Ways you can contribute:

Donate: Your generosity ensures the continuation of our programs.
Become a Member: Join our community and enjoy exclusive benefits, including free park admission and event discounts.
Support the Aviary: Help us provide a safe haven for our avian inhabitants.
Donate Your Vehicle: Consider donating your used vehicle to support our cause.
Legacy Gifts: Leaving a gift to Effie Yeaw Nature Center in your will ensures a lasting legacy.

Your support drives our efforts to inspire and educate future generations

Click here to Support Us

Land Acknowledgment

In deepest respect, the American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) recognizes that the Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC) sits on the unceded land of the Valley Nisenan peoples. The American River Natural History Association, EYNC, and the Sacramento Regional Parks, as co-stewards, will continuously work to uplift and affirm the voices of the local tribal nations through a mutual partnership that will aid in preserving and interpreting their thriving indigenous culture; not just depicting past history. ARNHA also commits to collaborating with local tribal nations to preserve the land in a manner that respects the beliefs and cultures of the first peoples of this area, who are vested and valued members of the Sacramento Community.

HEAR FROM OUR EXPLORERS

"AMAZING! Our family visited on President Day Weekend & it was absolutely amazing! The nature center is a small, quaint walk through where you can learn about some of the insects and animals and then you head out to the trails."

Elizabeth F.

EYNC Trailhead Newsletter

Welcome to the EYNC Trailhead Newsletter, your source for all things Effie Yeaw Nature Center! This month, we're excited to spotlight the incredible people, captivating nature, and engaging events that make EYNC a cherished community hub.

PEOPLE

Brena Seck

Meet Brena Seck, your guide to the wonders of nature at Effie Yeaw Nature Center! As a UC California Naturalist, Brena leads our Cal Nat program, sharing her passion and knowledge for the environment with students of all ages. Join Brena on an exciting journey of discovery through the diverse ecosystems of the American River Parkway. Whether you're interested in wildlife, conservation, or simply love being outdoors, the Cal Nat program at EYNC is the perfect way to deepen your understanding of the natural world.

Click Here for Article

NATURE

Why Can’t We Take Our Dogs into the Nature Study Area (NSA)?

Delve into the Nature Study Area Guidlines with Eric Ross' latest article in The ACORN.

Did you know that even the presence of a friendly, leashed dog can disrupt the natural behaviors of wildlife? Animals perceive dogs as predators, which triggers a stress response that can interfere with their ability to find food and care for their young. This is why the Sacramento County American River Parkway Plan designates the Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC) NSA as a protected habitat where dogs, horses, and other pets are prohibited.

Visitors to our NSA have the unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close, as animals are more likely to remain in the area when dogs are not present. EYNC's designation as an NSA also makes it one of the best sites in the Sacramento area for birdwatching, listed as a California Watchable Wildlife viewing site.

For those who still want to enjoy the outdoors with their furry friends, a dog-friendly trail is available around the perimeter of the NSA and into Ancil Hoffman Park, where dogs are welcome. Explore our 100-acre NSA and discover the beauty of nature while respecting the wildlife that calls it home. Visit sacnaturecenter.net/visit-us/nature-study-area/ for a trail map. #RespectWildlife #NatureStudyArea #EYNCWildlife.

Click Here for Article

EVENTS

Feast in the Forest: Camp Effie Yeaw - (formerly known as the Gala) 2024

Join the American River Natural History Association for our annual “feast in the forest” at Effie Yeaw Nature Center: a benefit evening of sophisticated camping fun, merriment, and nostalgia.

Art Auction
Experience the essence of our local artisans and craftspeople at our signature auction house event. Showcasing unparalleled talent and diverse perspectives, each piece reflects the unique ecosystem of the natural world. But our event offers more than just art! Be enticed by our silent auction experiences, where you can bid on immersive nature encounters such as guided hikes, flight lessons, travel holidays, and wildlife interactions. Bid on your favorite adventure!

Honorary Gala Chairs
Celebrate with us as we laud the 2024 Honorary Gala Chairs for their selfless service, unwavering dedication, and embodiment of the core beliefs of the American River Natural History Association.

-Kathy Fleming

-Dick Larsen (in memoriam)

Costs:

Members: $165.00

Non Members: $180

Sponsor a table (10 tickets): $1,600.00

Purchase Tickets Now

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#TRAILS MOMENTS!

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Facebook - Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Instagram - @effieyeawnaturecenter