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

    Santa Monica Mountains

    National Recreation Area California

There are park alerts in effect.
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  • Update on Park Closures

    All NPS trails are open, w/the exception of part of the Satwiwa Loop Trail. Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa is only open sunrise to sunset. Point Mugu State Park re-opens 5/24. 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 5/31/13. Check back for updates or call 818-889-8996. More »

Camping on the Backbone Trail

The Backbone Trail can provide views of green mountains high above costal fog.

The Backbone Trail can provide views of green mountains high above coastal fog.

Photo by Jim Belsley

Presently, there is no camping outside of designated campgrounds along the trail. Once the trail is complete, a Backbone Trail Backcountry camping plan will be announced for review and public comment. After approval, contracts for building the trail camps will be accepted and trail camps will be built. A permit system for camping will be initiated at that time.

Current trailside campgrounds on the Backbone Trail:

  • Musch Trail Camp at Topanga State Park camp has room for 8 tents, has tables, running water and a flush toilet. It is not resevable, and is on a first come, first served basis. Small fee ($7/person/night). No open fires permitted during times of high fire danger. Due to budget cutbacks, this campground is only open on Friday and Saturday.
  • Danielson Ranch at Point Mugu State Park is a group campground. Contact California State Parks for reservations at 310-457-8144.

Current campgrounds that are near the Backbone Trail:

  • Malibu Creek State Park campground is 1.5 miles from where the BBT crosses Malibu Canyon. Regular campground with fire ring, water, bathrooms, nearby. Reserve a camp site up to 7 months in advance at: www.parks.ca.gov

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.