Daily Deal: Free marshmallow roasts, campfires at L.A.-area parks

Park rangers at five L.A.-area parks invite you to come roast a few marshmallows around the campfire and learn about the more natural side of the urban core you live in. Ranger events create an outdoors-in-the-city experience good for children and families -- and they’re free.

The deal: The evening campfires are sponsored by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, which works to help create open space, trails and habitats in Los Angeles and beyond. The campfires feature ranger talks, sing-alongs and of course marshmallow roasting (if you want s’mores, bring your own graham crackers and chocolate).

When: Campfires are open to the public starting at 7 p.m. through Aug. 8 at these locations:

--Tuesdays at King Gillette Ranch, 26800 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas; $7 parking.
--Wednesdays at Vista Hermosa Natural Park, 100 N. Toluca St., L.A.; free parking.
--Thursdays at Temescal Gateway Park, 15601 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades; $7 parking.
--Wednesdays at Franklin Canyon, 2600 Franklin Canyon Drive, Beverly Hills; free parking.
--Tuesday (June 25), July 9, July 23 and Aug. 6 at Marsh Park, 2960 Marsh St., L.A.; free parking.

Details: The campfires are a good way to get to know these local parks, if you haven’t been to them already. Check the conservancy’s website for information on trails as well as free hikes and nature programs offered year-round at these sites. (Brides to be: There are several sites to rent.)

Info: Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy

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