Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area: dog rules

Yes, with restrictions. At National Park Service sites, dogs on a leash of 6 feet or less are allowed on trails, roads and developed areas such as campgrounds and parking lots, but not in buildings or where posted. State park land inside the recreation area has stricter rules: pets are not allowed on backcountry trails of Topanga, Malibu Creek, Leo Carrillo and Point Mugu state parks.

Dogs allowedYes, with restrictions
Official restrictionsAt National Park Service sites, dogs on a leash of 6 feet or less are allowed on trails, roads and developed areas such as campgrounds and parking lots, but not in buildings or where posted. State park land inside the recreation area has stricter rules: pets are not allowed on backcountry trails of Topanga, Malibu Creek, Leo Carrillo and Point Mugu state parks.
LeashRequired
Maximum leash length6 feet

Verified October 26, 2026 from National Park Service. Full record and sources on DogPolicies.