Located in Calabasas, just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, Malibu Creek State Park spreads across thousands of acres with 15 miles of streamside trails that wind through oak and sycamore woodlands. The creek itself runs for 25 miles through the park, and you’ll see it frequently as you hike—it’s the real centerpiece here, not just something in the background.

The main trails follow the water pretty closely, which dogs seem to love. You can hike along the creek bed, cross it at various points, and explore the chaparral-covered slopes that climb up from the streamside. It’s a genuine mix of woodland and open hillside, so you get shade and then views depending on where you are. The vegetation changes as you move through different elevations, which keeps the hike interesting over the course of an afternoon.

Leashed dogs are welcome on all the trails, and most people bring theirs. The water access is a big draw—your dog can wade in at multiple spots along the creek, which matters on warmer days. Bird watching is solid here, especially if you go earlier in the morning, and you’ll likely see deer and possibly coyotes from a distance, so keeping your dog on a leash is definitely the right call.

The park also allows fishing and horseback riding if those interest you, though most visitors come for the straightforward hiking. The trails range from easy creekside walks to longer routes that climb the hillsides, so you can pick based on your dog’s fitness level and how much time you have.

Parking is available at the main lot near the trailhead entrance. The park gets busy on weekends, particularly in spring and early summer when the creek flow is highest and the wildflowers are still around. Weekday visits are noticeably quieter if you prefer fewer people on the trails.