Attractions and Places To See in Malibu Creek State Park - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see in Malibu Creek State Park encompass over 8,000 acres within the Santa Monica Mountains, featuring rugged canyons, expansive meadows, and diverse ecosystems. The park is characterized by its dramatic volcanic rock formations, gorges carved by Malibu Creek, and significant historical sites. It offers more than 35 miles of trails for exploration, alongside cultural landmarks and natural preserves. This area served as a vital center for the Chumash Native American people and a prominent filming…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Century Lake
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Malibu Creek Rock Pools
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Grasslands Trailhead
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M*A*S*H Filming Site, Malibu Creek State Park
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Malibu Creek State Park Visitor Center
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The Grasslands Trail is an easy, beginner-friendly singletrack that connects Malibu State Park to Calabasas. Here you can have beautiful views of open grasslands with gentle terrain and minimal elevation change, making it perfect for new riders. Here you can have beautiful views of open grasslands. The trail is accessed from the parking area along Mulholland Highway.
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If you are looking for a scenic and refreshing trail run in the Santa Monica Mountains, you should check out the Rock Pool at Malibu Creek State Park. This 2-mile out-and-back trail follows the creek through oak and sycamore woodlands, offering views of volcanic rock gorges and pools. The Rock Pool is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and even cliff-jumping, if you are feeling adventurous. You can also extend your run by exploring other trails in the park, such as the Grassland Trail or the M*A*S*H site. Just make sure to bring enough water, sunscreen, and trash bags, as the park can get hot and crowded in the summer. And don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of nature and the history of this park, which has been used as a filming location for many movies and TV shows.
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Century Lake is a beautiful and serene destination for trail runners who want to enjoy the scenery and history of Malibu Creek State Park. The lake was created by a dam built by the Crags Country Club in 1903, and later became part of the 20th Century Fox Ranch, where many movies and TV shows were filmed, including Planet of the Apes and MASH. The trail to the lake is about 1.5 miles from the parking area, and is mostly flat and easy, except for a rocky creek crossing. You can relax by the lake and admire the views of the Santa Monica Mountains, or explore the nearby helipad and MASH set. This is a fun and historic run that will make you feel like you are in a different century.
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wonderful cooling. It gets crowded in the afternoon
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Malibu Creek State Park preserves for public use almost 8,000 acres of rugged, mainly virgin land in the middle of the Santa Monica Mountains—within the largest metropolitan area on the West Coast. http://www.malibucreekstatepark.org Rapid, dramatic geologic changes created the spectacular landscape of Malibu Creek State Park. Its jagged mountains, rock outcroppings, cliff-like slopes, and deep gorges were formed over two million years by severe climate changes, earthquakes, erosion, and tectonic plate collisions. These forces continue to shape the landscape today. In the early days of the film industry, rugged terrain that could double for far-off locations was difficult to find near Hollywood. Filmmakers transformed this area into exotic locales such as old Mexico, outer space, and an army hospital in Korea. Movies and television shows filmed here include M*A*S*H, The Planet of the Apes, Pleasantville, and How Green Was My Valley. The Angeles District Headquarters building here served as the “dream house” in the 1948 classic, Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House. Malibu Creek slopes from west to east through the middle of the park. The creek was dammed in the early 1900s to form the seven-acre Century Lake. Numerous small seasonal creeks empty into Malibu Creek from the highlands. Great little campground with good infrastructure.
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Definitely take your bathing suit with you. The water is quite fresh though. But it is a nice experience to swim there.
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The lush wetlands and groves around the little reservoir created by the small fill dam early in the 20th century are a great place. There you can witness the natural recovery succession after the devastating Woolsey wildfire that raged through the area in November 2018.
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Unfortunately affected by the Woolsey-Fire in November 2018
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Malibu Creek State Park?
Malibu Creek State Park is renowned for its diverse natural landscapes. You can explore dramatic volcanic rock formations and gorges, particularly around the Malibu Creek Rock Pools. The park is also home to Malibu Creek itself, which carves through the landscape, creating picturesque views. Expansive meadows, dense oak and sycamore woodlands, and chaparral-covered slopes offer varied ecosystems to discover.
Are there any historical filming locations within Malibu Creek State Park?
Yes, Malibu Creek State Park has a rich history as a filming location. A major draw is the M*A*S*H Filming Site, where the popular TV series was filmed. Visitors can hike to see a replica of the famous signpost and explore restored set elements. The park also served as a backdrop for numerous other classic movies and television shows, including *Planet of the Apes* and *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid*.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in Malibu Creek State Park?
The park offers an extensive network of over 35 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Popular routes include the Rock Pool Trail and Century Lake Trail. For those interested in cycling, you can find various MTB trails and gravel biking routes. Rock climbing and bouldering are also popular activities, especially around the volcanic rock formations near the Rock Pool.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Malibu Creek State Park?
Malibu Creek State Park is very family-friendly. Many trails, such as the Grasslands Trail, are easy and suitable for all ages. The M*A*S*H Filming Site offers an engaging historical experience for families. Additionally, the park provides a family-friendly campground for immersive outdoor experiences, and designated picnic areas are available for visitors to enjoy.
Where can I find information and maps for exploring the park?
The Malibu Creek State Park Visitor Center is a valuable resource for maps and guidance. It's a great starting point for planning your exploration of the park's trails and attractions.
What historical sites, beyond filming locations, are present in the park?
Beyond its cinematic history, Malibu Creek State Park holds significant cultural heritage. The area was a vital center for the Chumash Native American people for centuries, with archaeological sites like the village of Talepop providing insight into their history. You can also find the historic Sepulveda Adobe, constructed in 1863, and the Mott Adobe Ruins, which feature a striking stone fireplace from an early 1900s adobe.
Can I go swimming in Malibu Creek State Park?
Yes, the Malibu Creek Rock Pools are a popular spot for swimming. While the water can be quite fresh, it offers a refreshing experience amidst scenic volcanic rock walls and gorges. Many visitors bring their bathing suits to enjoy a dip.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Malibu Creek State Park?
Malibu Creek State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its diverse habitats support a variety of animals, including deer, rabbits, foxes, and bobcats. Birdwatchers will be delighted by over 60 species of birds, such as red-tailed hawks, woodpeckers, and eagles.
Are there any specific trails recommended for hiking in Malibu Creek State Park?
The park offers numerous hiking trails for various skill levels. Popular options include the Rock Pool Trail and the Century Lake Trail. For a more challenging experience, consider the Malibu Lake Trail or sections of the Backbone Trail. You can find more detailed information on hiking routes in Malibu Creek State Park.
What is Century Lake and why is it significant?
Century Lake is a 20-acre man-made lake created in 1910 by the Crags Country Club. It later became property of 20th Century Fox and served as a backdrop for numerous films and television shows, making it a significant historical and scenic spot within the park.
What are the geological highlights of Malibu Creek State Park?
The park's landscape is defined by its rugged and dramatic volcanic rock formations and gorges, particularly evident around the Rock Pool. These striking geological features are the result of millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion, creating a unique and picturesque environment.
Are there any natural preserves within Malibu Creek State Park?
Yes, Malibu Creek State Park is home to several designated natural preserves, each protecting unique ecosystems. These include the Kaslow Natural Preserve, safeguarding golden eagle nesting grounds, the Liberty Canyon Natural Preserve, protecting valuable Valley Oaks, and the Udell Gorge Natural Preserves, preserving rare plants and distinctive volcanic formations.
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