Service Area: Greater Los Angeles Area, including Los Angeles and Ventura Counties

Protect the Place that Inspires You

An intersection between people, plants, and wildlife. 

Explore. Protect. Preserve.

Join our mission to preserve the Santa Monica Mountains through restoration, education and stewardship

Welcome to Santa Monica Mountains Fund, a non-profit organization that funds habitat restoration, hiking trail improvement, educational programs and wildlife conservation in the Santa Monica Mountains.

A commitment to education like never before

 

With the opening of the Santa Monica Mountains Fund Field Institute, we will be able to bring you more education-forward programs that focus on enlightening the community and fostering the next generation of environmental stewards. 

Learn More

Check it out

SAMO Youth 2026

It's time to join the Samily

Earn while you gain valuable experience in this life-changing internship. The SAMO Youth Program provides paid work experience and mentoring for college students and recent grads.

SAMO Fund is Excited to be Hosting California Climate Action Corps Fellows

In another leap forward in our partnership growth, SAMO Fund takes on six California Climate Action Corps Fellows. Meet the team and learn how they are helping reclaim space for nature.

 

 

Explore your Mountains

Trails Forever: 2026 Trail Challenge

SAMO Fund’s Trails Challege returns in 2026 to complete the 8 specially selected trails, showcasing the stunning beauty of the region—from easy strolls to moderately challenging treks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, there’s something for everyone. 

 

 

SAMO Fund is hiring

We want you to be a part of our team

If you’re passionate and hardworking, and love the Santa Monica Mountains, consider a career with SAMO Fund. Newly available positions include:

  • Native Seed Tech
"Logo for 'Trails Forever,' highlighting the Santa Monica Mountains Fund

SAMO Fund’s bold new effort to restore damaged trails, protect fire-impacted landscapes and create a more resilient future for the Santa Monica Mountains.

Four women pose together in two photographs, one in black and white by a body of water

Honoring the Legacy of Our Founding Mothers

Learn More and join the legacy

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area owes much of its inception to the tireless efforts of three pioneering women: Sue Nelson, Jill Swift, and Margot Feuer. Their dedication made this national park a reality and laid the groundwork for ongoing conservation efforts. Continuing their legacy, Sue’s daughter, Sara Nelson, has established the Sara Nelson Fund. As part of our non-profit organization, this endowment aims to provide financial stability during periods of fluctuating donations and budget constraints, ensuring the park’s sustainability for future generations. 

Our Partnerships with National Park Service and California State Parks

Santa Monica Mountains Fund has been the official partner to the National Park Service since 1988. In 2025, we formed a partnership with California State Parks. By joining forces, we can work more effectively across public lands to protect and steward Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

Why Support Our National and State Parks? 

Supporting SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS FUND is crucial for numerous environmental and cultural reasons: 

Environmental Importance

  • Ecosystem Protection: Our parks protect vital ecosystems, wildlife, and plant species, many of which are rare, endemic or endangered, helping to preserve biodiversity.
  • Clean Air and Water: Parks play a significant role in maintaining clean air and fresh water, preventing pollution. They also safeguard watersheds that provide drinking water to millions.  

Cultural
Significance

  • Historical Preservation: Our parks safeguard historical sites and cultural landmarks, preserving the heritage of various communities. 
  • Recreational Opportunities: Parks provide spaces for outdoor recreation, vital for physical and mental well-being through a connection with nature. They act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change, while offering educational programs that inspire environmental stewardship. 

Economic
Impact 

  • Economic Engines: Parks attract millions of visitors each year, boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and generating essential revenue for communities. 
  • Practical Value: Even for those who may not hike or camp, parks offer safe, affordable spaces for families to relax, exercise, and bond.  

Join Us in Making a Difference

As a committed non-profit organization, SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS FUND invites you to join us in supporting the preservation of these vital natural resources. Together, we can ensure that the beauty and richness of the Santa Monica Mountains endure for generations to come.  

We are a registered 501(C)(3) not-profit organization. EIN: 95-4187832 

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