CALIFORNIA NATIONAL MONUMENTS
From rocks and islands off the California coastline to native grasslands and from an historical army post to rugged mountain ranges, National Monuments in California are some of the most biodiverse regions in the state. Together, this treasured system encompasses seven national monuments on BLM-administered lands.
This system of spectacular landscapes, managed with partners in a manner honoring the enabling legislation or proclamation, is part of an active, vibrant landscape where people live, work and play. They offer exceptional opportunities for recreation, solitude, wildlife viewing, exploring history, scientific research, and a wide range of traditional uses. They are America’s lands and are here for you and future generations to enjoy. The California Coastal National Monument was expanded by President Obama on January 12, 2017.
Featured: Boundary Enlargement for California Coastal National Monument
The California Coastal National Monument expansion, totaling approximately 6,200 acres, adds six spectacular places on California’s iconic coastline to the monument, preserving important habitat for coastal plants and animals, and protecting cultural sites that provide insight into the people who lived along the California coast thousands of years ago. Many of the new units of the monument are also culturally and spiritually important to local tribes.
- On Trinidad Head, (map) a promontory jutting off the coast of Humboldt County, a historic lighthouse sits atop sheer cliffs overlooking crashing waves and rugged sea stacks.
- Waluplh-Lighthouse Ranch, (map) just south of Trinidad Head, has spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Eel River Delta, and the south spit of Humbolt Bay.
- Thirteen miles further south, the Lost Coast Headlands (map) include rolling hills and dramatically eroding bluffs, punctuated by freshwater creeks, ponds, and pockets of forest.
- Cotoni-Coast Dairies (map) in Santa Cruz County extends from the steep slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains to marine terraces overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Approximately 5,800 acres, it encompasses ancient archaeological sites, riparian and wetland habitats, coastal prairie grasslands, and woodlands that include stands of coast redwood.
- Piedras Blancas (map) in San Luis Obispo County provides visitors the opportunity to tour a historic lighthouse overlooking the site’s namesake white coastal rocks, and observe a colony of massive elephant seals loafing in the sun.
- Orange County Rocks and Islands (map) just off the coast of Orange County treat visitors to dramatic crashing waves, unique geology, and an abundance of marine-dependent wildlife including pelicans and seals.
Additional Information about the California Coastal National Monument Expansion
- Map of California Coastal National Monument Expansion
- Presidential Proclamation
- Fast Facts and Q & A
All California National Monuments
A complete list of all California national monuments are below.