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 McCrea Ranch Programs

The beautifully rustic McCrea Ranch, located at the bottom of the Norwegian Grade, was owned by movie stars from Hollywood's Golden Age. Legendary film actor and Western movie hero Joel McCrea, with his wife of 57 years, movie star Frances Dee, raised their three sons here, Jody, David, and Peter, and lived a simple lifestyle as part of the community, farming the land, and raising cattle.

A personal friendship between Joel and Tex Ward, General Manager Emeritus for CRPD, helped lay the foundation for the McCrea's to donate their ranch and family home in 1995 to the Conejo Recreation and Park District, effective 2004. The ranch home and outbuildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

People are gathered at outdoor tables on a patio surrounded by trees, next to a house-like building.
Two musicians in cowboy hats, one playing a guitar and singing, the other on a double bass, performing outdoors under a blue canopy.
A man demonstrates rope throwing at an outdoor event with an audience watching.
Outdoor gathering with people sitting at tables, green tents in the background, and trees providing shade.
People are gathered at outdoor tables on a patio surrounded by trees, next to a house-like building.
Two musicians in cowboy hats, one playing a guitar and singing, the other on a double bass, performing outdoors under a blue canopy.
A man demonstrates rope throwing at an outdoor event with an audience watching.
Outdoor gathering with people sitting at tables, green tents in the background, and trees providing shade.

Facility Rentals

The McCrea Ranch Visitor Center is available to rent for small functions, including weddings, special events, and presentations. Amenities include an indoor meeting area and outdoor patio, plus limited kitchen facilities. For information, please call the District's Outdoor Unit staff at 805-495-2163.

The McCrea Ranch is currently only accessible during scheduled events and programs. To participate in upcoming events at the McCrea Ranch provided by the Conejo Recreation and Park District, please visit REGISTRATION and search “McCrea” or call 805-495-2163. The Ranch is located at 4500 North Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.  

Upcoming Events