• Afternoon clouds cover the distance peaks of the iconic Boney Mountain

    Santa Monica Mountains

    National Recreation Area California

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  • Partial Park Closure Due to Hazardous Conditions

    Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa re-opens 5/14/13, with restrictions (sunrise to sunset, not all trails). Sandstone Peak & Mishe Mokwa trails will also open, as will Backbone Trail east of Point Mugu State Park boundary. Point Mugu backcountry remains closed. More »

  • Trucks on Cheeseboro Canyon Trail

    Occasional truck traffic (approx 6 trips per day) will take place on Cheeseboro Cyn Trail weekdays between 8am & 4pm for demolition and removal of Cheeseboro Tank. Should be completed by 5/24/13. Check back for updates or call 818-889-8996. More »

California Red-legged Frog

CA red legged frog

A California Red-legged frog taking a swim.

USGS/Gary Nafis

The California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii) was once a common species found in Southern California. Nowadays, there are only three small populations of red-legged frogs in all of Los Angeles County, with only one population of red-legged frogs remaining within the park boundary and surrounding area. The population of red-legged frogs in the Santa Monica Mountains and Simi Hills is critically small and isolated, and there is great concern about the long-term persistence of the existing population.

 
California Red-legged Frog

California Red-legged Frog

USGS/Gary Nafis

Park biologists are working with partners in re-introducing red-legged frogs into suitable stream habitats on NPS and state lands within the Santa Monica Mountains. Re-establishment of new populations would prevent extirpation from the park, in the case of a catastrophic event.


Did You Know?

A community project led by the National Park Service has restored Zuma Lagoon.

Many hands spanning different generations and agencies continue to turn back the clock on damage to the fragile environment at Zuma Lagoon. After the removal of debris and the restoration of native plants, beach visitors now find a living wetland with 108 species of birds and colorful wildflowers.