Western Fence Lizard
ParkCalifornia, US
Conejo Valley Botanical Garden
Discover a tranquil escape at Conejo Valley Botanical Garden, a living open-air museum nestled in Thousand Oaks, California.
About
Discover a tranquil escape at Conejo Valley Botanical Garden, a living open-air museum nestled in Thousand Oaks, California. This 33-acre hillside sanctuary offers a diverse collection of plants from around the world, making it a unique destination for nature lovers. With free admission and scenic trails, it invites visitors to explore and connect with the natural beauty of the region.
The garden features over fifteen distinct specialty gardens, each showcasing unique plant collections, from the drought-tolerant wonders of the Desert Garden with its cacti and succulents, to the vibrant Australian Garden featuring Kangaroo Paws and Melaleucas. Explore the Rare Fruit Orchard boasting 130 trees of 40 species, the fragrant Herb Garden, and the vibrant Butterfly Garden designed to attract and support native pollinators. Children will delight in the Kids' Adventure Garden, complete with a treehouse, pirate's cave, and dinosaur topiaries.
Whether you seek a peaceful stroll, an educational experience, or a picturesque backdrop for photography, the Conejo Valley Botanical Garden delivers. Its commitment to biodiversity conservation and environmental education makes it an inspiring place to learn about plants adapted to Mediterranean climates and beyond. The panoramic views of the Conejo Valley from the hilltop are a memorable reward for those who venture to the higher trails. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.
The Conejo Valley Botanical Garden's story began in 1973 with the acquisition of the land, driven by local gardening enthusiasts passionate about creating a community space for diverse plants. The garden officially opened in 1976. Operated by the non-profit Conejo Valley Botanic Garden, Inc., the garden is maintained by dedicated volunteers, donors, and local gardeners, receiving no public funding and relying entirely on donations. A significant addition, the Kids' Adventure Garden, was established in March 2003, enhancing its appeal for younger visitors.
What to do here
Stroll through diverse themed gardens, hike the various trails (including the Nature Trail and Little Loop Trail), enjoy birdwatching in the Bird Habitat, and take in the scenic overlooks.
Seasonal info
Spring: Best for wildflowers and blooming plants.
Summer: The Nature Trail offers welcome shade along the creek.
Year-round: The garden is open most days, closing only for Independence Day (July 4th) and during wet or high-wind conditions.
Accessibility
The garden features walking paths and trails, some of which may involve inclines as it's built on a hillside. Restrooms are available in the parking lot before entering the gardens.
Don't miss
1
Kids' Adventure Garden
A hit with children, featuring a treehouse, pirate's cave, zoo garden, and dinosaur topiaries.
2
Desert Garden
Showcasing various cacti, succulents, and desert trees, offering panoramic views.
3
Rare Fruit Orchard
Home to 130 trees of 40 species from 35 countries, including Nectarine Panamint and Black Mulberry.
4
Australian Garden
Features plants adapted to California's climate, such as Red Flowering Gum and Kangaroo Paw.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
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Good to know before you go
Wear comfortable, breathable clothes and slip-resistant walking shoes, as trails can be dusty and involve inclines.
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as you'll be exploring a significant area.
Consider visiting in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and more serene surroundings.
Don't miss the panoramic views from the hilltop; it's a rewarding experience after a short climb.
Check the garden's website or social media before visiting, as it may close due to adverse weather conditions (high winds, rain, or muddy trails).
Remember that restrooms are located in the parking lot before the main garden entrance.
Frequently asked questions
- No, admission to the Conejo Valley Botanical Garden is free for all visitors. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help with the garden's maintenance and upkeep.
- Yes, leashed dogs are welcome in the garden. Visitors are asked to keep their dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet and to clean up after them. It's also advisable to monitor pets, as some plants can be poisonous to dogs.
- The Kids' Adventure Garden is open on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. While the main garden is open from sunrise to sunset most days, this special children's area has specific operating hours.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 4, 2026
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Photo attribution
(c) Zack Abbey, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 7, 2026
Jun 4, 2026
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Jun 4, 2026
Jun 4, 2026
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