Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
protected area in Southern California, USA
About Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
The Santa Monica Mountains run through the heart of Los Angeles, but have been largely preserved as an oasis of geographic and biological diversity. Miles of scenic roads and hiking trails can be a welcome escape from ever-present Los Angeles traffic. The establishment of the National Recreation Area in the Santa Monica Mountains was the culmination of over 75 years of conservation effort. A movement to preserve the park's unique natural environment has been under way, in one form or another, since the early years of the 20th century. The adjacent Point Mugu State Park, Topanga State Park, and Malibu Creek State Park were created by the State of California prior to the establishment of the National Recreation Area, linking much of the public open space together, in 1978. The Santa Monica
Top Attractions in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Explore the best things to see and do in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area:
- ★Backbone Trail
- ★Big Sycamore Canyon Trail
- ★King Gillette Ranch
- ★Malibu Canyon Trail
- ★Malibu Creek State Park
- ★Malibu Golf Club
- ★Malibu Riders
- ★Paramount Ranch
Where to Eat in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Saddle Peak Lodge
Where to Stay in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- 🏨Canyon Campground
- 🏨Circle X Ranch
- 🏨Danielson Multi-Use Area
- 🏨La Jolla Valley Campground
- 🏨Malibu Creek Campground
- 🏨Musch Camp
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 12 sections including: