Beaches, theme parks, restaurants, and celebrity sightings certainly makes Los Angeles one of the liveliest places in the world, but there’s a deeper layer to our city waiting to be explored. Amidst the hustle and bustle of fast-paced city life, many seek solace in its hidden treasures. And what better way to find tranquility amidst the urban chaos than by escaping to a serene waterbody? If you’re looking for outdoor fun besides the beach, here are the best lakes near Los Angeles worth visiting.
1. Lake Balboa
Situated in the heart of Lake Balboa Park, within the San Fernando Valley, the 27-acre Balboa Lake stands as one of the best lakes near Los Angeles, drawing Angelenos seeking traditional lakeside amusement. Beloved by couples and families alike, Balboa Lake offers a plethora of recreational activities for a memorable day out. Fly-fishing and pedal boating reign as popular choices within its bounds, while the surrounding area beckons with even more adventures to discover.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 22 miles
🛟 Swimming: Not allowed
🎣 Fishing: Only in designated areas
🚣♀️ Boat use: No gas powered motors are allowed
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Yes
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
2. Castaic Lake
Positioned just north of Santa Clarita and mere minutes off of the 5 freeway, Castaic Lake emerges as one of the largest and most accessible swimming lakes near Los Angeles. It’s not just its size that impresses, Castaic is also brimming with activities. The main lake offers boating, fishing, and opportunities for horse back riding and BMX, while the western shore of the adjacent lagoon, known for its summer outdoor movie screenings, features an expansive sandy beach.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 44 miles
🛟 Swimming: Only in designated areas with a lifeguard present
🎣 Fishing: Yes
🚣♀️ Boat use: Yes
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Yes
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
3. Pyramid Lake
Nestled just up the 5 freeway from Castaic, Pyramid Lake is truly a (not so) hidden gem, that offers comparable scenery with a slightly narrower recreational focus. The majority of marine activity converges at Emigrant Landing in the reservoir’s northwest corner. However, for swimming or kayaking, consider exploring the shores of Vaquero Beach to the south. Be aware that tribal permits are requires for most activities. If you’re passing by on the freeway, don’t miss the nearby Vista Del Lago Visitor Center, offering stunning views of one of the best lakes near Los Angeles.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 65 miles
🛟 Swimming: Only in designated areas
🎣 Fishing: Yes
🚣♀️ Boat use: Yes
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Yes
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
4. Echo Park Lake
If you’re unfamiliar with Echo Park Lake, you’ve likely been out of the loop. Renowned as Los Angeles’ recreational centerpiece, Echo Park is often hailed as the city’s most exquisite lake. Here, visitors engage in a myriad of outdoor pursuits, from jogging to pedaling swan boats, fishing, and enjoying picnics. It’s also a favorite outdoor workout destination for Angelenos, offering stunning views of the Downtown L.A. skyline amidst lotus flower blooms. Whether you’re planning a picnic lunch, a romantic first date, or simply seeking a sunset spectacle, Echo Park Lake is one of the quintessential lakes in Los Angeles that promises an unforgettable experience.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 1 mile
🛟 Swimming: Not allowed
🎣 Fishing: Only in designated areas
🚣♀️ Boat use: Paddle boats available for rent
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Yes
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
5. Puddingstone Lake
If you’re seeking aquatic fun in San Dimas, you might consider heading to the Raging Waters water park. However, adjacent to it lies Puddingstone Lake, nestled within the expansive Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. Here, boaters are welcomed, and swimmers can enjoy the southern end of the lake.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 25 miles
🛟 Swimming: Only in designated areas
🎣 Fishing: Yes
🚣♀️ Boat use: Watercraft with propellers are not allowed
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Partially
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
6. Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake stands as the sole naturally formed lake in the San Gabriel Mountains, nourished by rain, snowmelt, and subterranean springs. Situated within the Angeles National Forest, its moniker was bestowed in 1887 by Pasadena Judge Benjamin Eaton, who praised its pristine, drinkable water. However, following natural calamities such as the 2002 Curve Fire, the lake’s water level experienced a notable decline. Presently, its water levels fluctuate annually, contingent upon rainfall.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 50 miles
🛟 Swimming: Not allowed
🎣 Fishing: Yes
🚣♀️ Boat use: Only hand-carried paddle or electric boats allowed
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Limited
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
7. Lake Gregory
This neighboring reservoir at the west of Lake Arowhead, is considerably more accessible to the public. You can fish and kayak on the lake, hike or walk your dog around the perimeter, and even enjoy a water park on the shore. Abundant nearby cabins make it an ideal destination for those seeking an outdoors getaway from the city. Though it is not super close to downtown, is definitely one of the best lakes near Los Angeles.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 79 miles
🛟 Swimming: Only in designated areas
🎣 Fishing: Yes
🚣♀️ Boat use: Yes
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Limited
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
8. MacArthur Park Lake
Among the most stunning lakes near Los Angeles, we have to include MacArthur Park Lake. Nestled in Westlake, it offers captivating views of Downtown Los Angeles. Fed by natural spring water from underground aquifers, MacArthur Park Lake holds historical significance as one of the three reservoirs supplying water to L.A.’s growing population in the 1800s, alongside Echo Park and Lincoln Park Lakes.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 2.5 miles
🛟 Swimming: Not allowed
🎣 Fishing: Not allowed
🚣♀️ Boat use: Not allowed
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Partially
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
9. Franklin Canyon
Franklin Canyon Lake, constructed in 1914, stands out as one of Southern California’s most picturesque man-made lakes. Situated within the San Fernando Valley and Beverly Hills, it serves as a prime spot for birdwatching in Los Angeles. Since its completion, the lake has transformed the canyon into a lush riparian oasis, providing a haven for migrating birds. Beyond birdwatching, visitors flock here to traverse the scenic trails. It’s a common sight to see families with children hiking along the safe and accessible paths, making for enjoyable and educational nature outings and one of the prettiest lakes near Los Angeles.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 14.5 miles
🛟 Swimming: Not allowed
🎣 Fishing: Not allowed
🚣♀️ Boat use: Not allowed
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Yes
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes
10. Lake Elsinore
This is technically a sag pond, formed by earthquake faults, located well south of Riverside and filled with water. However, it resembles a typical lake, featuring boats cruising its center, kayaks lining its edges, and swimmers enjoying the sandy Elm Grove Beach. (It’s also close to Walker Canyon, famous for its traffic-causing poppy blooms following wet winters.) Just be sure to monitor reports on the occasional bacterial and algae blooms before taking a dip.
🚗 Distance from DTLA: 70 miles
🛟 Swimming: Only in designated areas
🎣 Fishing: Only in designated areas
🚣♀️ Boat use: Yes, fees may apply
♿ Wheelchair accessible: Partially
🚻 Restrooms in premises: Yes