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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaUsing these maps, you can find some inspirational views at Circle X and many other National Park Sites.
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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Map and Site Information:
Circle X Ranch

Tucked in the canyons above Malibu and nestled below majestic Boney Mountain, you will find Circle X Ranch. This former Boy Scout camp offers many opportunities for exploration and adventure. Journey to Sandstone Peak, the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, and see several of the Channel Islands on a clear day. Enjoy a visit to the Grotto or a creekside picnic. Reserve the Group Camp and listen to coyote songs at night.

Travel one of the many trails that wind through this rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem. The plants you see here, such as coastal sage scrub and mixed chaparral, are adapted to hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Keep an eye out for red shank chaparral, a tree-like shrub with reddish-brown bark, clusters of thread-like leaves, and small bunches of white flowers in July and August.

From the dry, rocky slopes near Sandstone Peak to the lush fern-studded Grotto, Circle X Ranch provides a wide variety of recreational possibilities. Linger here for a while, and experience the ambiance of this secluded mountain retreat.

 

Location of Trailheads and Directions

Circle X Ranch House Main Parking Area
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Location of Circle X Group Camp Site
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Location of Canyon View Trailhead, Middle
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Location of Sandstone Peak-Backbone Trailhead
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Location of Mishe Mokwa Trailhead
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Charlie Cooke, hereditary Chief of the Chumash played an important role in making sure 85 acres remained open space.  

Did You Know?
On June 13, 1980, Charlie Cooke, hereditary Chief of the Chumash and concerned citizens fulfilled a dream-- a place for families to explore our natural world and learn about the Chumash. Satwiwa in Newbury Park, CA celebrates the beauty of the mountains and all Native American cultures.

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Last Updated: April 17, 2009 at 12:42 EST