The city of Los Angeles in California USA is one of the most happening and lively places in the world. The city has plenty of choices for tourists to have a wonderful vacation, starting from some topmost theme parks, film studios, beaches, swanky eateries and bars and of course, celebrity spotting. But, there are some places in Los Angeles where you can go for boating, fishing, enjoying a picnic or just taking a stroll around and admiring the calm waters, ie. the lakes in Los Angeles. So, there are a few more places you must visit on your trip to California.
10 Beautiful Lakes In Los Angeles
Usually, in a big metropolis, it is hard to find lakes and natural water bodies for some moments of peace and quiet. Read on to know in details about some of the important lakes in Los Angeles.
1. Baldwin Lake
This is a lake in Los Angeles County named after the legendary Lucky Baldwin and located in Arboretum and Botanic garden. Spread in an area of 4 acres, this is more like a sag pond which is replenished by rainwater and natural springs nearby. The place has to its credit hundreds of years of history. Baldwin acquired the Rancho Santa Anita including this lake in 1875 and he built the famous Queen Anne Cottage and a Coach Barn which are now listed as heritage properties. The whole place was taken over by the state government in 1947 to develop an arboretum in the surrounding area. The place is very nice to spend a day wandering amidst the serene nature and learning about the interesting history. The gardens have some rare species of plants and you will find many a great view spots to appreciate the alluring ambiance all around.
Location: N Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia
Timings: 9 am to 4:30 pm
Must Read: Hiking In Los Angeles: 11 Beautiful Trails To Explore The Scenic Scenes Of The City
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2. Castaic Lake
This is one of the best lakes in Los Angeles, located in the Sierra Pelona Mountains in the North Western side of the city close to the town of Castaic. Along with providing with fresh water to the surrounding area, this lake also offers various recreational facilities for the general public. You can have a relaxing time here admiring the tranquil waters and the beauty around it or have some fun-filled moments enjoying the various activities offered like boating, camping, fishing, and many more. There are many walking trails here and exclusive picnic areas with all the amenities for the visitors to make the most of their day out.
Location: Angeles National Forest, 5 minutes away from I-5
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
3. Lake Hollywood
An artificial lake nestled in the lush green Hollywood Hills, this is one of the lakes in Los Angeles, California from where you can see the famous Hollywood sign from a close distance. The entire hiking path was closed for a long time due to landslides in the area and then opened again in 2013. A lovely place to go to for some great scenic photogenic locales, easy walking trail and of course the lake also known as Hollywood Reservoir. Built in 1924, this water body is still actively supplying clean and fresh drinking water to the city. However, the entire water area is protected by fencing, so you will not be able to go near it, but even then the place is worth visiting for the enchanting beauty all around after an enthralling hike.
Location: West of Griffith Park
Timings: 6:30 am to 6 pm
Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Los Angeles, The Home Of Hollywood
4. Pyramid Lake
This lake in Los Angeles, California is located to the north of Magic Mountains Park exit way at a distance of 20 miles and very close to Interstate 5. The place has numerous activities to have a fun day out in the waters. Boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and fishing are some of them. Among many picnic areas, surrounding the place, 5 of them are noteworthy as they are accessible only by boats. An ideal place for an outdoor excursion with the entire family or a group of friends, this place will leave you with some warm and happy memories.
Location: Castaic, California
5. Lake Piru
Situated in the Los Padres National Forest, this is one of the lakes near Los Angeles for boating. A perfect place to spend some quiet time from the hustle and bustle of the crowded city, there are many activities on offer for everyone. There is a campground where you can set up tents, marina for renting boats, launch ramps, cafe, and picnic areas too with all the basic amenities. The star attraction is a recently added Frisbee Golf course. The warm water of the lake makes it an ideal place for surfing throughout the year. Also, as fishing is more like the national pastime of the USA, you can try a hand at it here as well. The waters of the lake are home for many species of fishes like crappie, rainbow trout, channel catfish and bluegill which makes it a favorite hub for Anglers.
Location: Los Padres National Forest
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6. Diamond Valley Lake
Located at an hour’s distance from the city, this is one of the best fishing lakes in Los Angeles. A recently constructed reservoir for supplying water to the nearby communities, any activity which requires direct touch with the water is barred here to maintain the hygiene and cleanliness. There is also the facility to rent out boats but there are restrictions on the type of boats and the speed limit too. With no other water activity, this makes it very popular with anglers who can enjoy a whole day out in the tranquil settings without any disturbances. Some of the fishes which are found in the waters here are sunfish, catfish, bluegill, and carp.
Location: Hemet, California
Timings: 6am to 6:30pm
7. Lake Perris
This is one of the popular lakes near Los Angeles for boating and other recreational activities like camping, fishing, and jet skiing. As the water levels are relatively low here, there is a restriction on the number of boats allowed per day, so it is better to reserve your slot before you plan a trip. There is a marina here where you can hire boats and a store too for basic needs. There are pre-marked swimming areas near the beach where you can enjoy a swim. Other activities are scuba diving, biking, hiking, and horseback riding. It is also a popular place for camping and offers all the facilities for a comfortable stay in the outdoors.
Location: South of Riverside accessible by Highway 60 or Interstate 215
Timings: Spring- 6 am to 8 pm; Summer- 6 am to 10 pm
Suggested Read: Top 10 Tourist Places In Los Angeles That Will Add A Little Glamour To Your Tour
8. Big Bear Lake
Located at a distance of two hour’s drive from Los Angeles, this place is a hot spot for tourists all around the year. The lake waters are suitable for all the types of boating like skiing, wakeboarders, paddle boats, sailing, and the likes. There is a recreation center near to the lake and it has many facilities and activities to keep you happily busy all through the day. This is a popular camping spot too equipped with amenities. The waters are full of varieties of fishes which makes it a haven for anglers. There are many nice lodges and resorts near the place so that the visitors can have a comfortable stay here and make the most of it.
Location: San Bernardino County, California
9. Silverwood Lake
One of the best fishing lakes in Los Angeles, this is just 90 minutes away from the city located in San Bernardino County. This also serves as one of the topmost boating destinations for the locals of the greater Los Angeles area. You can rent a boat from the marina here or you can approach individual rental companies and they will deliver your choice of boats to the lake, of course for some extra charges. There is a speed limit on many areas inside the water which makes it a popular hub for fishing where you will find crappie, rainbow trouts, bluegills and catfish among other varieties of fishes. The calm and peaceful waters of the lake along with a ruggedly beautiful backdrop of mountains with some delightful activities.
Location: San Bernardino County, California
Timings: 6 am to 9 pm
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10. Lake Casitas
A drinking water supplier to the local communities, this lake offers an alluring view of the mountains and you can also spot some rare species of birds here. Only fishing is allowed inside the waters but there are some closeby attractions like a golf course and a water theme park with some interesting and fun rides. It also offers campgrounds for camping. In the springs season, the whole landscape is brightened by the blooming colorful wildflowers and offering a sight to behold for the visitors. What more could you ask for on an outdoor trip!?
Location: Ventura County, California
Further Read: Top 15 Los Angeles Beaches For That Perfect Summer Escapade
The city of Los Angeles and its neighboring areas have some of the most charming and pleasant places in southern California. These lakes in Los Angeles are some places where you and your family can spend a day or two far away from the maddening crowds. Get in touch with Travel Triangle and we will help you plan a perfect getaway to the USA. Rest assured, you would not be disappointed!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lakes In LA
Are there any natural lakes in Los Angeles?
You will find a rarity of natural lakes in California, especially in the Southern part of California.
Where can I go swimming in Los Angeles?
If you are looking for swimming opportunities in LA then you can visit Malibu Creek Rock Pool, Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, Frank G Bonelli Regional Park, Silverwood Lake, Lake Gregory, Aztec Falls Swimming Hole etc.
What rivers and lakes can you swim in California?
The best places to swim in California are Sacramento River, Lake Anza, Mono Lake, Garden of Eden, American River, Cleo’s Bath, Emerald Bay, and McCloud River.
What is the nicest beach in LA?
The best beaches in L.A happen to be the El Matador State Beach, El Pescador State Beach, Zuma Beach County Park and Westward Beach etc.
What’s the deepest lake in California?
The deepest lake in California is Lake Tahoe.
Can you swim in Los Angeles?
Yes, you can enjoy swimming while being in Los Angeles. The water is warmer here than the North sea but it is safe to swim near the beaches.
Why does Lake Tahoe not freeze?
Lake Tahoe is not able to completely freeze because of the large amount of water that it has as compared to its relative surface area. It somehow prevents the lake from reaching its freezing temperatures.
What is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe?
The best time to visit Lake Tahoe is from March to May as well as from September to November. Though this area is open for visitors all throughout the area, Lake Tahoe is a major tourist attraction here.
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