This species is found in pine forests, oak woodlands, and in chaparral of southwestern Oregon valleys. It is usually found in, under, or near rotting logs in open wooded areas near streams.

The California mountain kingsnake preys upon snakes, lizards, birds and their eggs, and some small mammals.

It is an Oregon Conservation Strategy Species in these ecoregions: Coast Range, Columbia Plateau, East Cascades, Klamath Mountains, and West Cascades.

Photo by William Grenfell, Flickr