• 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 »

Plan Your Visit

Kite surfers enjyoy a day at the beach.

1st Place - People in Parklands - 2009 Spirit of the Mountains Photo Contest

Derek Gordon

What Makes This Park Unique?

Hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters characterize the climate of the Santa Monica Mountains. These semiarid conditions, and the mountains' location in a costal, middle latitude, place the park in what is known as a Mediterranean climate. This is one of only five such regions in the world.

How Do I Get to the Park?

Check out the links to your left to get directions, find out about our operating hours & seasons, learn about fees and reservations.

What's in the park for me?

Are you looking for something specific or you just want to get orientated first and talk with a ranger?

You can start planning your visit by checking out some of the popular things to do or visiting our Interagency Visitor Center at King Gillette Ranch.

Or maybe you just want to head out and explore the many park sites and locations.

You can even download brochures of our park before you visit.

 
Ranger Ken leads a program at Rocky Oaks.

Hikes, Walks, Talks, Tours, Rides, and so much more...

There are so many things to do and see in the Santa Monica Mountains. Below are just a few.

OUTDOORS Calendar of Events is your main guide to activities can enjoy throughout the park.

The Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center hosts cultural programs and workshops throughout the year.

Camping in the Santa Monica Mountains is a great to experience the park from the mountains to the sea.

Did You Know?

Sue Nelson, Jill Swift, and Margo Feurer were instrumental in the movement to create a national recreation area near Los Angeles.

Four state parks were the triumph of a grassroots movement to protect open spaces minutes from Los Angeles in the 1950s & 60s. Three women, Sue Nelson, Jill Swift, and Margo Feuer further galvanized the movement that helped make Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area a reality in 1978.