Unless otherwise noted, all programs begin at the South Slough Reserve Visitor Center, located 4 miles south of Charleston on Seven Devils Road. Programs may be cancelled due to low enrollment or hazardous weather. Activity fees and donations help support youth education programs. Reservations are required for all programs. For more information or to register for a class, please visit: southsloughestuary.org, select Learn, and then Community Classes. Questions? Please contact Eric Dean, Education Specialist at 541-888-5558 Ext. 126 for assistance.

Kayaking the Estuary 10/9/2025 9:00 AM

Come experience the rich cultural and natural history of the South Slough on a trail that flows with the tide. During the five-mile paddle, experienced guides will show you areas of the Reserve rarely seen by visitors. Bring your own kayak / canoe and gear, or rent a kayak (with PFD and paddle) from us. Feet and legs may get wet and muddy at launch points. Driver and shuttle will be provided. Meet at the Distant Water Fleet Parking Lot in Charleston, OR next to Qualman Oysters [Max-16] ($15 / boat or $35 with kayak rental). Register at https://tinyurl.com/mshztk58

Fall Mushroom Workshop 10/11/2025 10:00 AM

Discover the world of mushrooms with local expert John Schaefer. Learn how to identify at least 15 local mushroom species and techniques for mushroom hunting. This workshop takes place indoors and along trails, so please dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Please bring a basket and knife for collecting. [Max-20 participants] ($25/person). Register at https://tinyurl.com/mshztk58

Siltcoos River Paddle Trip 10/14/2025 9:00 AM

The 6 mile Siltcoos River Water Trail takes you from the largest lake on Oregon’s coast, through towering sand dunes and forests and brings you to a special stretch of ocean where snowy plovers nest on protected beaches. Along the way, there are tricky logjams that challenge your skills of Twister and a dam portage with a kayak slide. The paddling is easy to moderate however, this trip will require good paddling skills and the physical ability to enter and exit your kayak without additional help. Bring your own kayak and gear, or rent it from us! We will meet at the Westlake Boat Launch, just south of Florence, for this program. [Max-10] ($15 / boat or $35 with kayak rental) Register at https://tinyurl.com/mshztk58

Introduction to Crabbing 10/16/2025 3:00 PM

Learn about the amazing life cycle of crabs, their importance to the local economy and the various techniques for capturing this delectable Crustacean. Dress for the weather and meet at the Charleston Visitors Center. [Max-12] FREE

Birding at the Millicoma Marsh Trail 10/18/2025 10:00 AM

Come enjoy great views of the bay and one of the best birding spots in Coos County. Interpreter, binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Dress for the weather. Meet in the parking lot directly behind Millicoma Middle School on 4th Ave. [Max - 15 participants] FREE. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mshztk58

Guided Nature Hike 10/23/2025 1:00 PM

Come for a walk in the woods and explore the flora and fauna on some of South Slough’s most popular trails. The two-mile loop is well maintained and relatively flat. Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring plenty of water and snacks. [Max. - 12] FREE. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mshztk58

Kayaking the Estuary 10/25/2025 9:00 AM

Come experience the rich cultural and natural history of the South Slough on a trail that flows with the tide. During the five-mile paddle, experienced guides will show you areas of the Reserve rarely seen by visitors. Bring your own kayak / canoe and gear, or rent a kayak (with PFD and paddle) from us. Feet and legs may get wet and muddy at launch points. Driver and shuttle will be provided. Meet at the Distant Water Fleet Parking Lot in Charleston, OR next to Qualman Oysters [Max-16] ($15 / boat or $35 with kayak rental). Register at https://tinyurl.com/mshztk58