The sun begins to set at Santa Monica Mountains, one of the national parks in California

Near the wealthy beachside towns of Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, and Malibu is a labyrinth of state and federal land called Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. You’ll also find famous locations such as Topanga State Park, Malibu Creek State Park, and Phantom Ranch (destroyed in a recent fire). Opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby Los Angeles by hiking and enjoying nature are endless in this massive swatch of protected land.

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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Information

Park Size: 156,671 acres

Established: November 10, 1978

Entrance Fee: None

Nearby Communities: Malibu, Newbury Park, Topanga

Visitor Centers: Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center and Bookstore, The Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center

Campgrounds: Circle X is the only National Park Service campground, but there are more operated by the state of California

How to Get There: The park is large, therefore, you should decide where to go first.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Unique Things to Do: See the ruins of Phantom Ranch, a popular filming location for Hollywood staples such as Westworld. The ranch was destroyed in the Woolsey Fire in 2018.

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