Ready to take on a biodiversity challenge like no other?

This year at the Big Rock Pool Challenge: Community BioBlitz Festival 2025, we are excited to gather together from 19-20 September, for a jam-packed 24 hours of wildlife recording and celebrating our stunning coastline in the UK.

Our theme for this year is ‘Our Coast. Our Climate. Our Future.’ We want to focus on climate-sensitive species and generate vital biodiversity data to support scientific research, conservation efforts, and regional climate resilience planning.

Thanks to the generous support of the ScottishPower Foundation, National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Duke of Cornwall’s Marine Environment Fund, this immersive 24-hour biodiversity challenge is FREE to attend. It will bring together local communities, organisations, and nature enthusiasts to celebrate biodiversity, encourage wildlife recording, and promote climate and environmental awareness.

 

Highlights of the event:

  • 24-hour coastal BioBlitz (including a night rock pool session!) focusing on climate-sensitive species
  • Expert-led workshops and talks on wildlife conservation and climate impact
  • Camping and outdoor activities including stand-up paddleboarding and snorkelling (additional fee will apply)
  • Hands-on training in species identification and citizen science methods
  • Community networking hub featuring local partners and groups
  • Wellbeing activities promoting a healthy relationship between community and nature

The BioBlitz is designed to be inclusive, engaging, and educational, empowering local communities to become long-term stewards of the coastal environment.

Opening times

The event is from Friday 5:00 pm to Saturday 5:00 pm.
Participants can check-in starting at 4:30 pm on Friday, or 8:30 am on Saturday.
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Getting there

Address: Porthpean Outdoor Education Centre, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6AZ
Driving: Parking on site is free. Additional free parking is also available at the field next to Porthpean Outdoor Education Centre.

Accommodation

Participants have the option to camp on-site and fully immerse themselves in the festival experience. A range of accommodation is available, from spacious 12-bed tents (Mixed, Female, or Male) to cozy private pods, offering something for every comfort level. Spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to ‘crab’ your spot soon by purchasing the add-on items on the event registration page!

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