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?
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe park sites are open year-round. Our parking lots are open from 8 am to sunset.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 8053702301 · samo_interpretation@nps.gov
There are multiple trailheads around the park, so there is not one main entrance. You can begin your visit at the visitor center, located off Mulholland Highway in Calabasas. The Santa Monica Mountains are traversed by the 405 Freeway on the east side; crowned by the 101 Freeway on the north and wes
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you camp at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include 2005 Wilacre Storm Damage Alt - Propd Name, 76 Step Trail, 92 Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Do you need a permit to climb?
Rock climbing is available here; some routes or areas may need a permit. Check current climbing regulations first.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
The park sites are open year-round. Our parking lots are open from 8 am to sunset.
Nearby sites
Mokwella at English Wikipedia / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sepulveda Dam
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
Hansen Dam
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
