Military Families Connect Through Art and Nature at Cabrillo National Monument
A day where history, creativity, and community came together.
Nestled along the California coastline, surrounded by tidepools, trails, and layers of history, sits Cabrillo National Monument – an ideal backdrop for a day of inspiration and community building.
On June 6, 2026, National Park Trust partnered with the Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP), a nonprofit dedicated to connecting the military community through the arts. Together, we welcomed military families to Cabrillo National Monument for a day of creativity and fun featuring coastal views, historical insights, and a reflective watercolor workshop.
San Diego area veterans and active duty members gathered at Cabrillo, where the morning began with warm welcomes from National Park Trust, ASAP, and the National Park Service (NPS) before setting off to explore the park.
NPS Ranger Amanda led the group on a tour of the historic Point Loma Lighthouse and former World War II military barracks. Throughout the tour, park volunteers dressed in 1940s period clothing helped bring history to life by sharing stories and interpretive insights from the era.
Visiting on the anniversary of D-Day added another layer of meaning to the outing. As the group explored the former military barracks, they learned about Cabrillo National Monument’s role during World War II and reflected on the enduring legacy of military service.
After exploring the park and enjoying lunch, it was time for an afternoon of connection and creativity. With the sound of the waves and the breezy coastal air, the group was guided through a watercolor workshop where they painted oceanscapes, wrote personal affirmations, and took time to slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
This event was designed to give military families an opportunity to enjoy Cabrillo’s stunning coastal scenery while bringing together the healing power of art and the outdoors. Research consistently shows that both artistic expression and time in nature can positively impact mental well-being.
What are National Park Trust’s Military Family Programs?
National Park Trust is proud to partner with organizations like ASAP to provide meaningful outlets for military communities and to honor their service by connecting them to the public lands they’ve helped protect. Through outings like this, we help military families strengthen community connections while experiencing the physical and mental benefits of spending time in parks, public lands, and waters across the country.
In 2025 alone, we partnered with military installations and military-focused nonprofits to engage over 1,200 individuals representing 350 families through 50 outdoor adventures nationwide.
Learn more about our Military Family Programs.
How can you support National Park Trust’s Military Family Programs?
At National Park Trust, we believe parks have the power to bring people together. Your support helps create impactful outdoor experiences that inspire wellness, strengthen community, and give military families opportunities to make lasting memories together. Learn about ways to support our mission.
