Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park is a natural escape easily accessible from the bustling city of Los Angeles and, as the name suggests, not far from the famous coastal city of Malibu. This expansive park in Calabasas, California, offers a diverse landscape and rich history, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those curious about Hollywood’s filming past.
Malibu Creek itself is the lifeblood of this park, a fourteen-mile waterway that carves through the mountains before reaching the Pacific at Malibu Lagoon. Following the streamside trails, visitors are immersed in a world of oak and sycamore woodlands, set against chaparral-covered slopes. The scenery is breathtaking, with volcanic rock gorges and serene pools punctuating the trails, offering stunning views across Las Virgenes Valley and Malibu Canyon. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, ensuring everyone can find their perfect path within the park.
Beyond its natural beauty, Malibu Creek State Park boasts a significant cultural and historical background. For centuries, this area was a central hub for the Chumash Native Americans. Remnants of this past are interwoven with more recent history, including the Sepulveda Adobe, originally built in 1863. Although this historic structure, once part of a Spanish land grant and restored in 2003, was sadly lost in the 2018 Woolsey fire, its legacy remains a poignant reminder of the park’s layered history. Adding another layer is the Mott Adobe ruins, the remains of a home built in the early 1900s by Johnny Mott, a Los Angeles attorney, famously frequented by President Herbert Hoover. Only the stone fireplace stands today, a silent witness to gatherings of the past.
Perhaps one of the most captivating aspects of Malibu Creek State Park is its history as a filming location. Before becoming a public park in 1976, this land, largely acquired from 20th Century Fox, served as a movie ranch. The dramatic landscapes provided the backdrop for countless films and television shows, most notably the original Planet of the Apes and the iconic TV series M*A*S*H. Even today, the echoes of Hollywood resonate through the park, with the M*A*S*H site remaining a popular trail for visitors to explore.
For those planning a visit and wondering “Where Is Malibu Creek State Park exactly?”, it’s conveniently located just four miles south of Highway 101 on Las Virgenes/Malibu Canyon Road. The address is 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302. Driving directions are straightforward: simply exit the 101 at Las Virgenes Road and head south towards the ocean. The park entrance is on the right, just past the Mulholland Drive intersection.
Parking is available with fees ranging from $3 for an hour to $12 for the entire day. For those interested in exploring the trails, popular options include the easy Rock Pool and Century Lake trails, the moderate M*A*S*H site trail, and the Lookout Trail for more panoramic views. Camping enthusiasts should note that Malibu Creek State Park offers campground facilities. Reservations can be made through Reserve California online or by calling 1-800-444-7275. The campground provides token-operated showers and fire rings with specific firewood policies based on fire safety levels, ensuring a comfortable and safe camping experience.
Whether you are drawn by the allure of hiking trails, the tranquility of nature, or the nostalgia of Hollywood history, Malibu Creek State Park offers a diverse and enriching experience. Its location provides a perfect gateway to explore the natural beauty surrounding Malibu and the wider Santa Monica Mountains region.
