OPEN DAILY FROM SUNRISE TO SUNDOWN

HARMON CANYON PRESERVE

PRESERVE STATUS: LOWER CANYON OPEN, UPPER CANYON CLOSED

Photo by Jason Fakour

Harmon Canyon Preserve, established in 2020, is Ventura’s first landscape-scale nature preserve.

Harmon Canyon Preserve includes 2,123 acres of ridgelines and canyons that feature diverse coastal sage scrub and coast live oak woodland habitats, ephemeral stream crossings with riparian scrub systems, and breathtaking views of our local coastline, the Santa Monica Mountains, and Channel Islands National Park. This spectacular preserve is the largest permanently protected open space in the Ventura area with public access, offering miles of trails for pedestrians and responsible non-electric bicyclists. Leashed dogs are allowed in the lower preserve.

Preserve location and parking info:

Harmon Canyon Preserve is located at 7511 Foothill Road.

Free parking is available located at the preserve trailhead off of McVittie Place.

Preserve Rules: Be a Friend to Nature

Do not disturb or remove plants, wildlife, soil, or rocks.

Cyclists must use a bell. Limited amount of bells are available at front entrance.

Keep dogs on-leash. Dogs only allowed to 1.8 mile marker.

Please refrain from camping, parties, fires and loud music.

Please stay on dirt roads and trails at all times.

Pack it in, pack it out. Including, dog waste.

E-bikes are not allowed in the preserve.

Preserve is open from dawn to dusk.

BECOME A CITIZEN SCIENTIST

Be a part of a collection of citizen scientists creating the most comprehensive data on the animals, plants, insects, and fungi that exist in Harmon Canyon. Your careful observations help us better understand the biodiversity and manage the nature preserve to the best of our abilities.

STEP ONE: Download the iNaturalist App and set up your account.
STEP TWO: Go outside! Take in the life around you–slow down, be curious, pay attention, and take photos.
STEP THREE: Upload your photos to iNaturalist. It will help you with IDs if you need them. Post your observation and we’ll see it on our end–thanks for your contributions!