This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Shipley Nature Center, a beloved community space where visitors connect with the natural world and explore the region’s environment and history.
Guests are welcomed by a dedicated team whose camaraderie and love of the outdoors is contagious. The center’s 18 acres encompass eight diverse habitats, offering a tranquil retreat from the hustle of everyday life.
Named for Dr. Donald D. Shipley — biologist, professor, committed environmentalist and four-time mayor of Huntington Beach — the center owes its founding to his vision and leadership.
Inside the center’s gates is the Interpretive Center, which offers information about local plants and wildlife. It was recently renamed in honor of another former mayor and environmentalist, Shirley Dettloff.
Before its transformation, the land was home to farms operated by the Huff family, who cultivated celery, lima beans and maintained a walnut orchard. Arline Huff Howard, daughter of the family, witnessed dramatic changes to the area, including the removal of an entire hill used as fill for the construction of the 405 Freeway.
The nature center was dedicated in 1974, along with the rest of Central Park, and opened the following year. Debris and invasive plants were cleared, and native species were planted — many donated by individuals, local businesses, and groups such as the Boy Scouts.
In its early years, programs were led by a park ranger who guided school groups and other visitors through the habitats, pointing out native plants and wildlife. A barn owl was a frequent visitor, and small animals were once housed in the Interpretive Center for up-close encounters.
Over time, however, city funding was redirected, the ranger position was eliminated, and the center fell into disrepair.
Invasive plants spread, and dead trees posed a fire hazard. The animals were removed from the center.
In 2002, the Friends of Shipley Nature Center launched a grassroots effort to restore the grounds. Supported by small grants and donations, volunteers began the work of reviving the site. Eventually, they partnered with the city, creating a lasting public-private collaboration that continues today.
The Friends group now includes hundreds of members, with at least 60 active volunteers and three staff members.
Volunteers manage the Interpretive Center, maintain the grounds, and support programming and outreach. Funding comes from membership dues, including lifetime memberships, individual bequests, and grants.
Recent grants have been provided by organizations including the Huntington Beach Elks Lodge, Chevron Employee Matching Gift Fund, Kanne Charitable Fund, LA Breakfast Club Foundation, O.L. Haskell Foundation, Plunkett Foundation, and the National Charity League. Visitors today can explore the center’s trails or join a docent-led tour. Wildlife sightings are common, including birds, butterflies, and other native species.
Blackbird Pond, a restored wetland, is home to willows and sycamores and is a favorite stop for migrating birds.
Educational programs focus on composting, water conservation and wildlife. Children can participate in the “Little Naturalists” program or attend summer day camps. The center also offers events that highlight Native American culture and heritage. Each year, approximately 12,000 schoolchildren visit on field trips.
The center’s 50th anniversary celebration will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on May 16. The family-friendly event will feature “Happenings,” including a community market, photo booth, raffles, and live music by the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts’ MMET program. “Walks & Talks” will include a Little Wrigglers worm workshop, Animal Ambassador Show & Tell, Egret Walks and a talk by the city archivist on the environmental history of the area.
Shipley Nature Center is located at 17851 Goldenwest St. It is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. On the first Friday of each month, the center remains open until 5 p.m. A $3 donation is suggested for admission. Parking is free.
For more info, visit shipleynature.org.