Parks / Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
National Recreation Area · CA
The Santa Monica Mountains offer easy access to surprisingly wild places. Experience the famous beaches of Malibu or explore more than 500 miles of trails. The park abounds with historical and cultural sites, from old movie ranches to Native American centers. What will you and your family discover?
Official NPS page →Entrance Fees
This park is fee-free.
Campgrounds (1)
Circle X Ranch Campground - CLOSED
Circle X Ranch Group Campground is the only campground the National Park Service operates in the Santa Monica Mountains. Visit recreation.gov to make reservations for this 10 person minimum group camp.
Things to Do
Mishe Mokwa Trail to Split Rock
Traversing riparian, coastal sage scrub, and chaparral, this trail offers wonderful views of Carlisle Canyon and Balanced Rock. Split Rock’s oak grove offers a shaded spot for picnicking.
Satwiwa Loop Trail
This area was set aside for the preservation and celebration of Native American cultures.
Solstice Canyon Trail
Travel through a beautiful, shaded riparian environment on the Solstice Canyon Trail alongside a year-round creek.
Visitor Centers
- Santa Monica Mountains Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center
- Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center
Source: National Park Service.