Rancho Sierra Vista / Satwiwa

Description:

• Welcome to the western edge of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. This site was home to the Chumash, Spanish Rancho El Conejo, and modern ranching and farming operations. Stroll through serene hills, view Boney Mountain or experience Native American traditions at the Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center.

  Satwiwa -- For many years, the Santa Monica Mountains sustained the Chumash and Tongva / Gabrielino cultures. Sycamore Canyon, which cuts through Rancho Sierra Vista / Satwiwa and Point Mugu State Park, was part of a Chumash trade route. Satwiwa, which means "the bluffs," was the name of a nearby Chumash village. To reflect this heritage, Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center and Natural Area was established by the National Park Service in partnership with the Friends of Satwiwa. A Native American guest host or a park ranger is on hand to answer questions from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Native American workshops, programs and art shows occur throughout the year. Call for information on accessibility parking.

  Rancho Sierra Vista -- Local ranching history began in 1803 when former soldiers Jose Polanco and Ignacio Rodriquez were granted Rancho El Conejo by the King of Spain. Through the years, this 48,672-acre land grant was subdivided and sold to various landowners. Modern ranching began here in 1937 when Carl Beal christened the area Rancho Sierra Vista. Carl Beal constructed most of the current ranch buildings and his house and barbecue pit in Sycamore Canyon. The last private landowner of this property was Richard Danielson. For 32 years, he and his family farmed and ranched here. The National Park Service purchased the property in 1980. The western boundary of present day Rancho Sierra Vista / Satwiwa reflects the original land grant of the Rancho El Conejo.

  Rancho Sierra Vista / Satwiwa offers several trails along with access to many trails located in Point Mugu State Park. Maps may be obtained at the National Park Service Visitor Center in Thousand Oaks and at the Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center. Dogs are not allowed on state park trails. Trail closures may be in effect during and following significant rainfall to protect park resources. Trails will be re-opened when dry enough to sustain public use. Bicyclists are allowed on designated trails only.