Depositional Systems of Western California Field Camp

Not offered in 2026. Contact the instructors for information about future session availability.

Introduction

This three-credit field course focuses on Late Cretaceous to Paleogene deep-water deposits along California’s spectacular coast. Students map the stratigraphic evolution of canyon, channel-fill, levee, and lobe assemblages in a forearc basin setting. The course emphasizes practical applications to petroleum exploration and environmental sciences.

Learning Outcomes

Students will develop expertise in:

Mapping deep-water rock types including turbidites and debrites
Identifying depositional environments in ancient submarine systems
Building submarine fan depositional models
Reservoir characterization from outcrop analogs
Integrating outcrop data with industry datasets for exploration

Program Schedule

The 22-day program includes varied accommodation: research station lodging (9 nights), hotel stays (3 nights), and tent camping (10 nights) across multiple coastal and inland California locations including Pescadero, Napa, Monterey, and Coalinga.

Prerequisites

Sedimentology, Stratigraphy, Mineralogy, Petrology, and Structural Geology. Geophysics is helpful but not required.

Physical Demands and Climate

Daily hikes through remote coastal and mountainous terrain. Weather ranges widely from 95°F inland to 45°F on the coast. Cold and rain-appropriate gear is essential alongside sun protection.

Student Testimonials

One of the best earth science courses I have taken. The real-world application to petroleum exploration and critical thinking development set it apart from any classroom experience.
— Field Camp Graduate