You are here

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Drought Reveals Unknown Breeding Habits Of Toads In Santa Monica Mountains

The prolonged drought in California had at least one silver lining for researchers studying wildlife in the Santa Monica Mountains. Native western toads were found to be breeding in September, the latest ever known observation for the species, which has a breeding season that typically begins in late January. Western toads need pools of water to breed, and without winter rains, it wasn’t until an unusual summer rain event, caused by Eastern Pacific Hurricane Linda, that the toads in this particular spot bred.

Night Sky Festival Returning To Santa Monica Mountains NRA, Will Include New Junior Ranger Patch

With the new moon coming on July 22, the Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower nearing its peak, and the total solar eclipse the next month, the National Park Service is excited to present its annual summer Night Sky Festival in the Santa Monica Mountains on that date.

Rare Amphibian Species Discovered Breeding In Santa Monica Mountains

National Park Service researchers surveying a stream in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area last week spotted signs of California red-legged frog reproduction. The nine egg masses found are the first known evidence in recent times of the species sustaining a population in the Santa Monica Mountains without the help of humans.

Another Mountain Lion Killed Near Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

A young female mountain lion was recently struck and killed by a vehicle on State Route 118 to the north of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in California, marking the third time a mountain lion was hit by a vehicle on the same stretch of freeway since December, according to the National Park Service.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.