Santa Barbara, CA · Santa Ynez Mountains
Paradise Reserve
A private natural area dedicated to knowledge and awareness of the Santa Ynez Mountain ecosystem.
Area
160 acres
Established
2005
Watershed
2 creeks
Our mission
The Paradise Reserve is a private natural area on the north-facing slope of the Santa Ynez Mountain Range, created to foster knowledge and awareness of the Santa Ynez Mountain ecosystem.
The Reserve was established in 2005 by biologists Cristina Sandoval and Kevin Lafferty. Through Cristina’s research on Timema walking sticks, found to be an undescribed species, they discovered how little was known about the natural history of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Protecting the mountains and their many species and diverse habitats requires building that foundational knowledge.
Since its founding, the Reserve has attracted research from many disciplines, including studies on banana slugs, ticks and Lyme disease, bird diversity, moss diversity, and insect diversity.
Planning your visit
Who may visit
Accepted visit types
We consider applications for research projects, university classes, field trips, and bird-watching activities.
Terrain & accessibility
The Reserve has uneven terrain. Most areas are only appropriate for adults who are able to complete difficult hikes.
Accommodations
There are no overnight facilities on site. Camping at designated sites is possible. County and Forest Service campgrounds are also available nearby.