Lopez Canyon Environmental Education Center

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The entrance sign at Lopez Canyon Environmental Center in Sylmar.
Location

11950 Lopez Canyon Road Sylmar, CA 91342 United States

Phone number
Public hours
Workshops on specific Saturdays each month from 9am to 11am
Capacity
Up to 120 guests for composting workshops

Summary

Located in the San Fernando Valley and owned and operated by LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN), this center is a community hub offering hiking and equestrian trails, a dog park, a playground, an outdoor education center, and free mulch for residential gardening projects. 

Formerly a landfill, Lopez Canyon Environmental Education Center opened in March 2015. Join us on a Saturday morning for interactive composting workshops free mulch produced from the City of Los Angeles' recycled green waste.

Special Features

To demonstrate water saving practices, our Education Center displays native and drought tolerant plants, a bio-swale, and a raised bed garden. In addition to learning how to compost their own food scraps in their yard or on their patio, attendees will be educated on water conservation, drought tolerant and native plant landscaping, and a variety of urban gardening techniques.

Dog Bark and Playground

The playground and dog park at Lopez Canyon are living proof that sustainability can be fun! Built and maintained by LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN), these facilities provide a beautiful green space for families in the North San Fernando Valley.

Whether you’re looking for a safe place for the kids to climb or a fenced-in spot for your pup to make new friends, we’ve got you covered.

Why visit?

  • The Playground: Safe, modern equipment for the little ones to burn off energy.
  • The Dog Bark: Plenty of room to run, sniff, and play. Separate spaces for large and small dogs. 
  • The Best Part: It’s all built on a former landfill that LASAN carefully monitors to keep our air and soil clean.

Equestrian and Hiking Trails

We designed these trails to show how we can restore nature in the middle of a big city. By planting native trees and shrubs, we’ve created a home for local birds and wildlife. Whether you're on two feet or four hooves, come explore the native plants and stunning views of the San Fernando Valley. It’s our way of giving this land back to the community. Our wide trails are perfect for hikers, horses, and riders of all levels.