Santa Monica Mountains - Western National Parks Association

Santa Monica Mountains

National Recreation Area

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Welcome!

Hidden in plain sight from Los Angeles, California, 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.

Explore the Park

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is just outside of Los Angeles, California, visitors can experience famous beaches, explore more than 500 miles of trails, and find historical and cultural sites.

Stories from Santa Monica Mountains

Survival and Dispersal of Bobcat Kittens in a Fragmented Urban Environment
Keep Reading
Effects of Habitat Fragmentation on Reptiles and Amphibians in Coastal Sage Scrub and Grassland Communities
Keep Reading
Effects of Competiton from Invasive Plants on the Endangered Plant Pentachaeta Lyonli
Keep Reading
Since our founding in 1938

WNPA has provided more than

$126 million

in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.

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Kids in Parks

National parks are places where kids can dream up great adventures! Taking in amazing scenery. Testing out new skills. Exploring places kids may have only heard about. But most importantly, creating new memories with friends and family.

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Our public lands are our public commons. They belong to all of us as part of our natural and cultural heritage. They remind us of a larger world that has existed long before the arrival of humans and will survive long after we are gone. –Terry Tempest Williams, Author & Conservationist

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Bring the Parks Home

When you can’t get to a national park for a visit, experience it from the comfort of your home. WNPA’s online store is packed with ranger-approved park collectibles, books, toys, and clothing. Shop for a special item.

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