About Chris

A Life in Nature and Education

Chris Cameron is a naturalist, consultant, and educator who helps people discover their place in the natural world. A student of science with a degree in theology, Chris has served as a pastor, teacher, naturalist, and leader in outdoor education—always focusing on sparking curiosity and wonder.

He retired as Executive Director of Camp Ocean Pines in Cambria, where he revitalized an aging camp by improving the facility, expanding its programs, and welcoming generations of children and adults into deeper connections with nature. Alongside his church and camp leadership, Chris has been called on to guide organizations through leadership transitions, team development, and program growth.

“There’s nothing more fun than sharing your passion with interested folks!”

Teaching and Guiding

Today, Chris teaches the UC California Naturalist certification course and leads learning adventures in Yosemite, Sequoia/Kings Canyon, and along the Central CA Coast with Road Scholar. Whether in the classroom, on a trail, or standing quietly in the woods, his work is centered on one simple goal: helping people rediscover the sense of wonder that comes from curious observation and personal introspection.

As both a birder and a master falconer, Chris encourages hands-on, immersive experiences in nature. He has led thousands of children on their first outdoor adventures and certified hundreds of adults as California Naturalists. His background as both pastor and scientist allows him to engage with diverse perspectives and create lively conversations where questions are welcomed and valued.

Roots and Personal Life

A native Californian, Chris grew up in Redondo Beach and now lives in Los Osos with his wife, his high school sweetheart. He has hiked hundreds of miles in wilderness miles but is content turning over a log to see what lives beneath, documenting discoveries on iNaturalist. He rescues snakes and repurposes roadkill.

Chris has traveled the globe, visiting natural and cultural sites on many continents. He holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership.

Passing It On

These days, one of Chris’s greatest joys is being “Poppa Chris” to his grandson, Theo. Whether they are barefoot in the garden, rescuing possums, exploring the chicken coop, or looking after a very old desert tortoise, Chris delights in passing along a love of curiosity and care for the natural world to the next generation.