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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaNearby Channel Islands National Park can be seen from ocean overlooks.
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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

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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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Backbone trail hikes lead to views of mountains, canyons, and the Pacific Ocean.  

Did You Know?
Piece by piece, a trail is forging its way along the "backbone" of the recreation area. California State Parks took the first step toward a 65-mile Backbone Trail in 1978. With 5 miles left to go, single track trails and fireroads will unite this patchwork of public parklands from east to west.

Last Updated: June 27, 2008 at 14:07 EST