The Keithley Preserve is one of the jewels of The Escondido Creek Conservancy’s 3,100-acre system of protected nature preserves in the Escondido Creek watershed in North County. Approaching 1,000 acres in size, the Keithley Preserve is adjacent to the 800-acre Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve and they together, along with adjacent County of San Diego owned lands, support a variety of rich habitats for wildlife including mountain lions, deer, birds and acquatic species.

The hike is easy but there are some changes in elevation. We recommend hiking boots, water, hat and long sleeves and long pants. Friendly dogs are welcome if on a 6 foot leash. You will meet former Conservancy board member Jeff Swenerton and learn about the Conservancy’s work to protect and restore the watershed.

Meetup details will be provided after signups and closer to the date. In the interim, please send questions to Conservancy executive director Ann Van Leer at executive@escondidocreek.org.