Rancho Sierra Vista

Rancho Sierra Vista is a nature reserve in the Santa Monica Mountains comprising grasslands and oak woodlands in varied topography. The land includes streams, meadows, and wooded slopes that create different habitats for wildlife throughout the property.

The land became a public nature reserve in 1980 when the National Park Service took over following private ownership by oil industry professionals. This acquisition protected the property from development and opened it to visitors.

The Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center within the reserve displays more than 150 archaeological sites that reveal how indigenous people once lived in this landscape.

The reserve has trails for hiking and areas good for bird watching, with educational programs available year-round. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail passes through the property, linking it to an important early exploration route used by Europeans centuries ago. This path reveals how travelers once moved through the region's mountains and valleys.

Location: California

Operator: National Park Service

Website: https://nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/rsvsatwiwa.htm

GPS coordinates: 34.15380,-118.96400

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:21