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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaThe very tall Great Blue Heron often seen hunting gophers in open fields.
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Meet Hollywood's Biggest Movie Star

Portraying Africa, the Amazon, and the old west? That's talent! Combining the scenic and the imagination play a big role in the movies and at this national park! Close to Hollywood, with beaches, grasslands, canyons, and oak woodlands, this coastal mountain range has star quality! Explore a rare, diverse landscape inspiring preservation and creativity. Meet the Santa Monica Mountains in person.

 
 
Mariposa Lily by David McMartin Spirit of the Mountains Photo Contest Winner

What's Blooming

Flowers are blooming year round in the Santa Monica Mountains. You will find both colorful native species and non-natives decorating the hillsides. Is this flower native to our mountains? Find out using the wildflower galleries.
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Write to

401 West Hillcrest Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Center
(805) 370-2301

Headquarters
(805) 370-2300

Fax

(805) 370-2350

Climate

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is in a Mediterranean climate region-- known for long hot summers and mild wet winters. Milder temperatures exist along the Pacific Coast. Temperatures tend to warm up as you travel inland.
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Franklin Canyon is a great place for natural and city views.  

Did You Know?
At the geographical center of Los Angeles is a national park site. At Franklin Canyon Ranch in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, you can see cityscapes and natural views. The recreation area extendes in an east-west direction running through the heart of the city.

Last Updated: July 20, 2008 at 18:53 EST