Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
Yes
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

California's Topanga State Park is located within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, the world's largest urban national park! It is the largest park within the city limits as well as the largest park in the Santa Monica Mountains. Topanga State Park features 36 miles of trails that allow you to explore cliffs, canyons, geological formations, scenic ocean views, and much more. 

Among the attractions found at this family-friendly state park are historical/cultural sites, picnic areas, visitor centers, interpretive exhibits, and programs.

VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE

Common vegetation includes grassland, chaparral, oak woodlands, sage, and riparian areas. It's home to a lot of different kinds of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and reptiles. 

RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

  • Trail Running

  • Hiking

  • Mountain Biking

  • Horseback Riding

  • Primitive Camping

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Backbone Trail: A multi-use long-distance trail spanning nearly 70 miles across the Santa Monica Mountains.

  • Eagle Rock: a prominent sandstone pinnacle within the park. 

  • Topanga Nature Center

  • Historical Buildings: Trippet Ranch, Will Roger’s Cabin, and the Josepho Barn. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Topanga State Park: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=629

Backbone Trail: https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/backbonetrail.htm.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Historical Sites. Trails. Largest urban park.

Cons

Some areas can get crowded.

Features

Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Wildlife
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Family friendly
Wildflowers
Horseback riding

Location

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