Elkus Ranch Environmental Education Center

A Community Partnership 

Located on the scenic northern California coast, Elkus Ranch REC is an environmental education destination within the University of California Research and Extension Center (REC) system. We provide unique, hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for San Francisco Bay Area youth from preschool through high school.  Elkus Ranch REC is a fully accessible facility that serves a wide variety of visitors, including those with special needs. This essential educational mission is proudly supported through our vital partnerships with the County of San Mateo, the Half Moon Bay Chamber of Commerce and Visitor's Bureau, and schools throughout the region.

Program Focus & Resources

Elkus Ranch serves as a major UCCE hub for San Mateo County, housing programs like 4-H, Master Food Preservers, and Master Gardeners. Our staff facilitate programs from preschool through high school that explore food and fiber production, utilizing the ranch's livestock, gardens, and open space. For complete details on all educational programs and facility rentals, explore the Elkus Ranch Programs page or view the Elkus Ranch Brochure (PDF, 573 KB).

Primary Offerings

The Ranch is available for reservation year-round and offers the following core services and rental opportunities:

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Hands-on Education

Programs include Educational School Field Trips, Lunch at the Ranch (LatR), Private Tours, Birthday Parties, Seasonal Day Camps, and Overnight at the Ranch.

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Accessible Facility

All learning spaces and facilities are fully accessible, ensuring unique learning experiences for all children and their adult chaperones.

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Event Venue

The ranch features a Conference Center with a full commercial kitchen, available for rental for daytime retreats, meetings, workshops, weddings, and other special events. Visit the Conference Center Rentals page to learn more.

Stay Up to Date with Us

Join our email list to keep up with news and events happening at Elkus Ranch. We'll share Public Event Days, Camp Registration, and other Ranch happenings!  

Newsletters for both San Mateo & San Francisco Counties are available here.

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