Malibu Creek State Park
Rugged state park in the Santa Monica Mountains with hiking trails, a historic M\A\S\*H set, and a popular rock pool swimming hole.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Malibu Creek State Park
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rugged state park in the Santa Monica Mountains with hiking trails, a historic M\A\S\*H set, and a popular rock pool swimming hole.
"So beautiful and the staff are always so nice. A short walk/hike takes you through mountains and a stream."
Bring plenty of water! :droplet:
Trails can be longer than they appear. Stay hydrated, especially on warm days.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes :athletic_shoe:
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
M\*A\*S\*H Filming Site
Various locations within the park
Walk through the iconic filming location of the beloved TV show M\A\S\*H. A must-see for fans!
Rock Pool
Accessible via hiking trails
A popular spot for a refreshing dip on hot days, this natural swimming hole offers a beautiful oasis.
+1
Century Lake
Near the M\*A\*S\*H site
Enjoy scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere at Century Lake, a picturesque reservoir within the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Fees
Wildlife Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring plenty of water! :droplet:
Trails can be longer than they appear. Stay hydrated, especially on warm days.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes :athletic_shoe:
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the trails. +1
Check trail signs carefully :clipboard:
Some signs may not accurately reflect trail distances or difficulty.
Pack a swimsuit :swimsuit:
The Rock Pool is a great place to cool off, but don't forget your swimwear!
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring plenty of water! :droplet:
Trails can be longer than they appear. Stay hydrated, especially on warm days.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes :athletic_shoe:
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the trails. +1
Check trail signs carefully :clipboard:
Some signs may not accurately reflect trail distances or difficulty.
Pack a swimsuit :swimsuit:
The Rock Pool is a great place to cool off, but don't forget your swimwear!
Visit the Visitor Center :museum:
Discover interesting exhibits on local geology and wildlife.
Consider camping :tent:
Enjoy an immersive experience with scenic views and peaceful vibes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Malibu Creek State Park for its beautiful natural scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunity to visit the historic M\A\S\*H filming site. The Rock Pool is a highlight for swimming on hot days. However, some find trail signage misleading regarding distances, and campsites could offer more privacy.
"So beautiful and the staff are always so nice. A short walk/hike takes you through mountains and a stream. It's very peaceful here. The camsites do not have a lot of privacy but they are clean and have paved parking and each site has it's own firepit! There are clean public bathrooms and showers, and you can purchase firewood from the camp hosts. I highly recommend camping here. You have mountains and are a short drive to the beach and close to the city if you forgot anything."
Michelle
"Nice state park with hiking and swimming opportunities. I would highly recommend swimming at Rock Pool especially on a hot day. Unfortunately I wasn’t aware of that so I didn’t bring any swim clothes. Overall nice mountain views and great volunteers and info at the visitor center."
TheDoRanger
"good place to hike. BUT the signs are a lie the sign said 0.7 miles IT TOOK LIKE 30 minutes to get THERE. Rock pool is kinda of dirty.I LOVE THE VISITOR CENTER cool rocks and animals bones and animals to look at. People there at the visitor center are so nice and really smart especially the air conditioning."
Jeff Zhang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Malibu Creek State Park is located in the Santa Monica Mountains, closer to Calabasas than Malibu itself. The main entrance is at 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302.
Public transportation options to Malibu Creek State Park are limited. It is generally recommended to drive to the park. +1
The park offers various hiking trails. Using a reliable hiking app like AllTrails can be helpful for navigation and discovering different routes. +1
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in Malibu Creek State Park.
Malibu Creek State Park is approximately an hour's drive from Los Angeles, making it a popular day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a daily parking fee of $12.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the daily parking fee is a standard charge for vehicle entry.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific hours for the campground and visitor center may vary. It's always a good idea to check the official California State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, camping is available and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can typically book campsites through the California State Parks reservation system.
The primary fee is for parking. Access to the hiking trails themselves is generally included with your parking fee.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the historic M\A\S\*H filming site, the popular Rock Pool for swimming, and the scenic Century Lake.
Some visitors have noted that trail signage can be inconsistent or misleading regarding distances. It's advisable to use a map or hiking app.
The park is home to various wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and occasionally larger mammals like deer. Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, such as mountain lions. +1
The Rock Pool is a popular swimming spot, but conditions can vary. Some reviews mention it can be a bit dirty at times. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Restrooms are available at trailheads and the campground. Some areas may also have vending machines for drinks.
🎫 🏕️ Camping
Campsites offer paved parking and fire pits. While they may not offer a lot of privacy, they are generally clean. Restrooms and showers are available.
Dogs are not permitted in Malibu Creek State Park, including the campground.
Camping fees can vary, with some sources indicating around $45 per night, plus additional fees for extra vehicles.
Campsite one is noted for offering the most space with neighbors only on one side.
Yes, firewood can be purchased from the camp hosts.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the rugged mountain landscapes and oak trees to the M\A\S\*H set and the Rock Pool. Springtime is particularly beautiful with wildflowers.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most flattering light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the Rock Pool.
While generally permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted rules or regulations. Drone usage may be restricted.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for sweeping vistas.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. A telephoto lens is recommended for wildlife photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Visitor Center is also a hit with kids, featuring interesting exhibits on local wildlife and geology. 🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Be prepared for varying trail conditions and consider using a hiking app for navigation. 🎬 Film Buffs
It's a great spot for photos and a walk down memory lane. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
+1 However, some visitors have noted that trail signage can be misleading regarding distances, with one reviewer stating a 0.7-mile sign took 30 minutes to traverse. Other trails, like the Bulldog loop, are described as an 'ass kicker,' indicating a significant level of difficulty. [^R] The park's diverse terrain includes rolling hills, oak woodlands, and rocky outcrops, offering scenic views throughout.
The M\*A\*S\*H Connection
While the original set structures are long gone, the landscape itself evokes the spirit of the show. Walking through these areas allows visitors to connect with a piece of television history amidst the stunning Santa Monica Mountains. It's a popular spot for photos and a nostalgic journey for those who grew up watching the series.
Camping Experience
+1 Campsites are equipped with paved parking and fire pits, and while they may not offer extensive privacy, they are generally well-maintained and clean. A significant advantage of camping here is the proximity to hiking trails, including the popular route to the Rock Pool, allowing for easy access to outdoor adventures.
Camp hosts are often available to assist visitors and sell firewood. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit