Stunt Ranch Santa Monica Mountains Reserve

Stunt Ranch Santa Monica Mountains Reserve is a protected biological area in the Santa Monica Mountains covering about 310 acres. It contains chaparral, oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian habitats that together support more than 300 plant species in their natural setting.

The Stunt family settled in the Cold Creek watershed during the late 1800s and managed the land over several decades. Ethel Stunt transferred the property to Occidental College in 1971, ensuring the area would remain protected as a reserve.

The site preserves artifacts from Gabrielino and Chumash peoples, including soapstone bowls, hammerstones, and mortars dating back 3,000 years.

The location sits about 13 kilometers north of Malibu and primarily serves as an educational facility for school groups and organized field studies. Visitors should check access rules in advance since the preserve is strictly protected and open only at scheduled times with a guide.

Cold Creek is the only stream in the Santa Monica Mountains that flows north to south year-round while maintaining constant water flow. This rare hydrology makes the waterway a defining feature that runs through the reserve.

Location: Calabasas

Part of: University of California Natural Reserve System

Website: http://stuntranch.ucnrs.org

GPS coordinates: 34.09083,-118.65750

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:04