Why visit
Malibu Creek State Park offers a rare combination of accessible hiking, swimmable creek pools, volcanic rock formations, and genuine film history all within a short drive of the coast. It is a favorite escape for Angelenos who want big-nature scenery, photogenic landscapes, and a quiet picnic spot without leaving LA County.
Malibu Creek State Park feels worlds away from the beach traffic of Pacific Coast Highway, though it sits just inland from Malibu. The park's most popular route follows a wide, mostly flat fire road along Malibu Creek to Rock Pool, a dramatic swimming hole framed by towering volcanic rock walls, and continues on to the reedy Century Lake. Trails branch off into chaparral-covered hills, oak woodlands, and grassy meadows where deer, hawks, and the occasional bobcat are part of the scenery.
Beyond the natural beauty, the park carries a layer of Hollywood history. A well-known trail leads to the former M*A*S*H television set, where rusted vehicles and interpretive signs mark the spot used as the show's Korean War backdrop for years. Combined with the visitor center, campground, and miles of interconnected trails, the park rewards both quick morning walks and full-day expeditions.
History
The land was home to the Chumash people for thousands of years before becoming ranchland, and portions were later owned by 20th Century Fox, which used the dramatic terrain as a backdrop for countless films and television productions, most famously M*A*S*H. California acquired the property in the 1970s, combining several parcels to create the state park that protects this stretch of the Santa Monica Mountains today.
Insider Tips
- ✦Download an offline trail map since cell service is spotty in the canyon
- ✦Wear closed-toe shoes with grip for the rocky section at Rock Pool
- ✦Arrive before 9 a.m. on weekends to secure parking and cooler temperatures
Photo Tips
- 📸Shoot the volcanic walls reflected in Rock Pool when the water is calm in the morning
- 📸Use the golden grasslands and lone oaks for warm backlit landscape shots near sunset
- 📸Capture the weathered M*A*S*H set vehicles against the open hills for a film-history frame
Before You Go
- ✓A common mistake is underestimating the heat on exposed trails; bring more water than you think you need
- ✓Check current fire restrictions and trail closures on the official website before you go
- ✓Confirm the day-use parking fee and bring a card or cash for the entrance kiosk
Visiting with family
Kids enjoy the easy walk to Rock Pool and spotting wildlife along the creek, but keep close watch near the water as rocks can be slippery. Pack plenty of water and sun protection since shade is limited on the trails.
Where to Eat Nearby
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Malibu Creek State Park FAQ
Can you swim at Malibu Creek State Park?
People do wade and swim at Rock Pool, but there are no lifeguards and conditions vary, so check posted warnings and water-quality advisories before getting in.
How long is the hike to the M*A*S*H site?
The round trip is roughly five miles on mostly flat fire road, making it a moderate half-day walk; confirm distances on a current trail map.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
California state parks generally restrict dogs to developed areas and not backcountry trails, so check the park's current pet rules before bringing one.
Nearby Neighborhoods
WestsideMalibu
Malibu is a celebrity-favored stretch of dramatic Pacific coastline known for its surf breaks, secluded beaches, and mountain backdrops. It offers a slower, more natural escape from the city, with hiking, wine, and ocean views in abundance. The drive along the Pacific Coast Highway is itself one of California's great experiences.
WestsidePacific Palisades
Pacific Palisades is a serene coastal neighborhood where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the sea, prized for hiking, ocean bluffs, and a cozy village center. It's home to cultural gems like the Getty Villa and the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine. The pace is calm, scenic, and outdoorsy.
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ParksPoint Fermin Park
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Helpful Guides
Malibu Creek State Park on the map
See Malibu Creek State Park and what's nearby in malibu.
Map pins are approximate and for visitor planning only — they may not mark the exact entrance or parking. Please check official directions before visiting.
Places shown on this map (9)
- Malibu Creek State Park — Parks
- Malibu Pier — Beaches
- El Matador State Beach — Beaches
- Zuma Beach — Beaches
- Point Dume — Beaches
- Leo Carrillo State Park — Beaches
- Malibu Lagoon State Beach — Beaches
- Malibu — Neighborhood
- Pacific Palisades — Neighborhood