Above a Chumash ap is partially recreated at the Satwiwa Native American Culture Center in the Santa Monica Mountains north of Los Angeles near Point Mugu. “Satwiwa” means the bluffs in the Chumash language and is situated near the base of the high cliffs on nearby Bony Mountain. The entire area in what is now the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area was once home to the Chumash, Tongva, and Gabrielno cultures. These peaceful and highly intelligent tribes lived along the central and Southern California coastal regions. The traditional home was about 15 feet in diameter and framed by Willow trees with walls of woven grasses, skins, and rushes.

The cultural center is a short hike from Lynn Road in Newbury Park. The cultural center is staffed on weekends with a park ranger or Native American guest who can answer questions about the history of the region and the culture of the people’s before the Spanish arrived. When hiking in the area be alert for rattlesnakes, ticks, and poison oak in shady areas.

Travel safe. Have fun.