• Run for the ranch

    The HOTTEST family friendly Wednesday evening 5K race series of the summer.

    Join us for a 5K Cross Country race series through the scenic trails at Paramount Ranch.

    🏃‍♀️‍➡️June 25th and July 2nd

  • Trails Forever

    SAMO Fund just launched the #TrailsForever program, our bold new effort to restore damaged trails, protect fire-impacted landscapes, and create a more resilient future for the Santa Monica Mountains.

    Get notified about the Trails Challenge

  • Keep the seeds Growing

    Federal funding for LA’s first Native Seed Farm has been impounded. Make a difference by helping us bridge the gap in funding to keep this vital resource for restoration in your park growing

  • Platinum Transparency 2025

    This year . Every year.

    Santa Monica Mountains Fund carries the highest mantle of excellence in trustworthiness and transparency

  • SAMO Fund + California State Parks

    We’re proud to announce a new chapter in our work protecting the Santa Monica Mountains. Santa Monica Mountains Fund is now officially partnering with California State Parks in the Angeles District.

    This formal agreement builds on decades of collaboration between SAMO Fund, the National Park Service, and California State Parks—but now, it’s official. By expanding our support to both agencies, we can work more seamlessly across public lands

Latest News

WHY DONATE TO OUR National and State PARKS?

Supporting national and state parks is crucial for both environmental and cultural reasons. They protect vital ecosystems, wildlife, and plant species, many of which are endangered, helping to preserve biodiversity. Parks also play a vital role in maintaining clean air, fresh water, and healthy forests, which help prevent wildfires, erosion, and pollution — protecting communities and saving millions in potential recovery costs. Our Parks in the Santa Monica Mountains safeguard watersheds that provide drinking water to millions, ensuring safer, cleaner supplies for homes and businesses.

In addition to conserving natural resources, parks safeguard historical sites and cultural landmarks, preserving the heritage of various communities. These spaces also provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, promoting physical and mental well-being by giving people a chance to connect with nature. They act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change, while offering educational programs that inspire environmental stewardship.

Beyond environmental and cultural significance, parks are powerful economic engines. They attract millions of visitors each year, boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and bringing vital revenue to communities. Even if hiking or camping isn’t your thing, parks provide practical value, offering safe, affordable spaces for families to relax, exercise, and connect.

Santa Monica Mountains Fund works to encourage appreciation and understanding of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area by supporting its National Park Service and California State Parks - Angeles District programs

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) encompasses homelands of indigenous people commonly referred to as the Chumash people (in the Western SMMNRA) and the Tongva people (in the Eastern end of the SMMNRA). 

Paramount Project

Paramount Ranch is a historic movie backlot situated within the boundaries of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

In 2018, the Woolsey fire destroyed most of the ranch. SAMO Fund is working with the National Park Service to restore this unique, historic ranch.

Mountain Lions

The small population of mountain lions in and around the Santa Monica Mountains are under threat. Nearly all our mountain lions tested are shown to be contaminated with anti-coagulant rodenticide and they face problems as they move around our area.

Native Plant Nursery

In 2019, Metabolic Studio awarded SAMO Fund a grant to support the revitalization of the NPS Native Plant Nursery at Rancho Sierra Vista.

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