California Naturalist
Desert Sands & Sky Islands
Are you passionate about nature?
Turn your passion into Knowledge and Stewardship of Our Desert.
The Desert Sands & Sky Islands California Naturalist course offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the rich natural history of Southern California's deserts, gain hands-on field experience with outdoor education and community science, and get involved in environmental stewardship.
This immersive program, offered by CactusToCloud Institute, provides a deep understanding of the diverse natural communities and ecological adaptations found from the lower elevations of the Colorado Desert to the higher Mojave Desert, including isolated sand dunes and the surrounding mountain "sky islands."
Hands-on Learning
Spend significant time in the field, exploring the unique wildlife, geology, and climate of the Coachella Valley, Colorado and Mojave Deserts.
Our science-based curriculum has been co-developed by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, our certified California Naturalist Instructors, and the desert community.
Community Science
Engage in participatory science projects, contributing valuable data to real-world conservation efforts using tools like iNaturalist.
Expert Instruction
Learn from a team of specialists in various fields, including plant ecology, regional geology, butterflies, desert water, and traditional ecological knowledge, led by Dr. Cameron Barrows, Conservation Ecologist Emeritus at the University of California Riverside Center for Conservation Biology.
Community & Service
Develop a strong understanding of environmental stewardship and become an active advocate for natural resource conservation, education, and restoration in your community.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our science-based curriculum covers ecology, geology, plant communities, wildlife, traditional ecological knowledge, interpretation, and global environmental issues.
Certification & Credits
Earn a prestigious California Naturalist certification and college credits through UC Davis.
The next Desert Sands & Sky Islands course begins in January 2026
Why Become a California Naturalist?
The UC California Naturalist Program hosted by CactusToCloud Institute is designed to:
Develop an informed community of naturalists ready to take an active role in natural resource conservation, education, restoration, and science.
Provide training for staff and volunteers for regional conservation organizations.
Engage people in interactive learning to stimulate critical thinking and scientific literacy.
Provide a foundation from which to continue to learn about the world around us and to apply that knowledge to further studies, educating others, restoring landscapes, and building a better future for our desert.
Unique Desert Ecosystems
Explore the "tapestry" of Southern California deserts, from the Colorado Desert to the Mojave Desert, and discover the incredible biodiversity adapted to these extreme conditions.
Practical Skills
Learn to make and record natural history observations, apply knowledge of the local bioregion to environmental issues, and develop skills in communication and interpretation.
Impactful Projects
Participate in capstone projects that allow you to apply your knowledge to real-world conservation challenges, such as participatory science, environmental education, or direct conservation actions.
Strong Community
Connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, instructors, and guest lecturers who share a passion for the natural world.
Contact us.
We will send updates on upcoming courses and applications to the Interest List as soon as they are announced. For additional questions or to learn more, contact us at education@cactustocloud.org or complete the form below.