Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Interactive Museum & Nature Center

Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding, California

Hours

Vary by season

Location

844 Sundial Bridge Dr

Size

300 acres

Features

Museum, arboretum, trails

Planning an Event at Turtle Bay?

Turtle Bay hosts corporate events, educational programs, weddings, and community gatherings. We provide reliable porta potty rentals to supplement existing facilities for large events.

Call (530) 245-8998 for Event Rentals

About Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Turtle Bay Exploration Park is a 300-acre museum, arboretum, and wildlife area located on the banks of the Sacramento River in Redding, California. This unique destination combines natural history, science, art, and wildlife in an interactive environment that educates and inspires visitors of all ages.

Museum Highlights

Interactive Exhibits

Hands-on displays covering natural history, science, and regional culture. Popular exhibits include the animal habitat displays and interactive science stations.

Art Galleries

Rotating art exhibitions featuring local, regional, and national artists. The galleries showcase diverse mediums and styles throughout the year.

Forestry & Fire Exhibit

Learn about forest management, fire ecology, and the role of fire in Northern California's ecosystems through interactive displays.

Children's Area

Dedicated spaces for young learners with age-appropriate exhibits, activities, and educational programs designed for children.

Outdoor Attractions

  • McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens: 200 acres of themed gardens, walking trails, and native plant collections
  • Wildlife Viewing: Observe local birds, mammals, and aquatic life in their natural habitats
  • Sacramento River Access: Riverfront trails and viewing areas
  • Sundial Bridge: Direct access to the iconic architectural landmark
  • Picnic Areas: Designated spaces for outdoor dining and gatherings

Educational Programs

Turtle Bay offers extensive educational programming for schools, families, and community groups. Programs include guided tours, hands-on workshops, summer camps, and special events throughout the year. The facility regularly hosts field trips for students from across Northern California.

Event Facilities

Available Spaces

  • Great Hall: Large indoor space for receptions, meetings, and presentations
  • Classroom Facilities: Multiple rooms for educational programs and workshops
  • Outdoor Pavilions: Covered areas for outdoor events and gatherings
  • Garden Venues: Beautiful outdoor settings within the arboretum
  • Riverfront Areas: Scenic locations along the Sacramento River

Popular Events

Corporate Events

Team building activities, corporate meetings, and company retreats in a unique educational environment.

Weddings

Beautiful garden and riverfront settings for wedding ceremonies and receptions, with indoor backup options available.

Educational Conferences

Professional development workshops, scientific conferences, and educational symposiums utilizing the museum's resources.

Community Festivals

Seasonal celebrations, cultural festivals, and community gatherings that bring people together in the park setting.

Visiting Information

  • Address: 844 Sundial Bridge Dr, Redding, CA 96001
  • Hours: Vary by season (check website for current hours)
  • Admission: Fees apply for museum; arboretum and trails are free
  • Parking: Free on-site parking available
  • Accessibility: ADA accessible facilities and trails
  • Amenities: Gift shop, café, restrooms, and picnic areas

Special Features

The park's location at the confluence of multiple ecosystems makes it a unique destination for nature study and outdoor education. Visitors can experience riparian forests, oak woodlands, and grassland habitats all within the same visit. The facility also serves as a research center, contributing to conservation efforts and environmental education throughout the region.

Porta Potty Rentals for Turtle Bay Events

Hosting a large event, field trip, or gathering at Turtle Bay? We provide additional restroom facilities to ensure all your guests are comfortable throughout your event.

  • • Standard and deluxe porta potty rentals
  • • ADA accessible units for inclusive events
  • • Handwashing stations for hygiene
  • • Luxury trailer rentals for upscale occasions
  • • Reliable service and maintenance

Call (530) 245-8998 to discuss your event restroom needs!