16 Best Lakes Near Los Angeles

Los Angeles may be known for its bustling city life and beaches, but just a short drive away are several beautiful lakes that offer a peaceful escape from the urban chaos. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day of fishing, boating, or simply soaking up the sun, there are plenty of options to choose from.
From tranquil reservoirs to scenic freshwater lakes surrounded by mountains, the lakes near Los Angeles provide a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. To help you find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure, we've compiled a list of the 16 Best Lakes Near Los Angeles, complete with key information on each location.
- Distance from Los Angeles
- Activities available (fishing, boating, swimming, etc.)
- Scenic views
- Amenities (picnic areas, campgrounds, restrooms)
- Water quality
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just looking for a day trip, the lakes near Los Angeles offer a welcome retreat for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. So grab your gear and head out to explore all that these beautiful lakes have to offer!
- 1. Echo Park Lake
- 2. Hollywood Reservoir
- 3. Silver Lake Reservoir
- 4. Debs Lake
- 5. Lees Lake
- 6. Upper Van Norman Lake
- 7. Encino Reservoir
- 8. Hansen Lake
- 9. Machado Lake
- 10. Reseda Park Lake
- 11. MacArthur Park Lake
- 12. Chatsworth Reservoir
- 13. Middle Lake
- 14. Upper Stone Canyon Reservoir
- 15. Rowena Reservoir
- 16. Redwing Lake

1. Echo Park Lake
Information and Reviews
- A wonderful park with many ducks, geese, and turtles.
- A great place for families to stroll, run, or workout.
- Beautiful views of the downtown skyline.
- Renovations have improved the overall experience for visitors.
Customers have praised the park for its scenery, including the wide variety of wildlife and opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to admire the view, take a leisurely walk, or enjoy a paddle boat ride on the lake, Echo Park Lake offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

2. Hollywood Reservoir
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight key points such as:
- Convenient paved trail for dust-free hiking
- Opportunities to spot wildlife like hares, varans, and deer
- Great 3.5-mile loop with a water fountain for bottle refills
- Exclusive and peaceful ambiance with stunning views
Escape the city buzz and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Hollywood Reservoir for an unforgettable experience.

3. Silver Lake Reservoir
Information and Reviews
- Regular visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and recommend visiting during weekdays for a more tranquil experience.
- Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs around the reservoir and mention the presence of a busy dog park at the end of the loop.
- The recent renovations of the reservoir have been well-received, with visitors expressing their admiration for the new look and feel of the area.
- Visitors also praise the community's cleanliness and the welcoming vibe that makes Silver Lake Reservoir a favorite spot for evening or morning walks.

4. Debs Lake
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight several key points about Debs Lake:
- Beautiful trail to visit the Debs Lake turtles. Easy hike up to the top. Great for children views all around.
- Visiting this park with its charming pond filled with turtles was a delightful experience for my family. The serene atmosphere combined with the joy of watching the turtles glide gracefully in the water made for a perfect outing.
- Perfect walking trail with children and pets. Many routes to choose from. Beautiful scenery of downtown and mountains. One of the best hiking spots near Downtown.
- Silent lake with a beautiful downtown view.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a family-friendly adventure, or a picturesque spot to relax, Debs Lake promises to be a memorable experience for all who visit.

5. Lees Lake
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about their experiences at Lees Lake, with a perfect 5.0 rating. Some key points from their reviews include:
- This is located inside a gated community and has beautiful ducks and geese to watch - Lucky owners!
- The ambiance is serene and peaceful, a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
With its stunning surroundings and glowing reviews, Lees Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Be sure to visit and experience this hidden gem for yourself!
6. Upper Van Norman Lake
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Upper Van Norman Lake:
- Great during the week. Nice and empty
- Amazing infrastructure
- Best water in town
With such high praise, it's no wonder that Upper Van Norman Lake is considered a must-visit destination for anyone in the Los Angeles area.

7. Encino Reservoir
Information and Reviews
The customer reviews speak for themselves:
- A very nice hike, have fun but be careful.
- A hidden gem tucked away in the hills of Encino.
- Odd spot, but a good time nonetheless.
- Simple and nice.
With a ranking of 4.6, Encino Reservoir is definitely worth a visit for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

8. Hansen Lake
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Nice place to visit on a beach day. It sure beats The Office. BTW, it's all inclusive
- Un punto bonito en medio de la nada
- Muy bueno
- Great walk
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply admire the scenic views, Hansen Lake has something for everyone to enjoy. With a rating of 4.6 stars, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit.

9. Machado Lake
Information and Reviews

10. Reseda Park Lake
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Fishing opportunities with some noisy turtles and birds around
- Affordable rates for the swimming pool and a nice playground for kids
- Beautiful, peaceful surroundings with clean facilities
- Hidden gem with stunning views, perfect for a family walk

11. MacArthur Park Lake
Information and Reviews
Some of the key services and features offered at MacArthur Park Lake include walking trails, picnic areas, and recreational activities such as fishing. The park also boasts a rich history, with old theaters still standing and a diverse array of attractions to explore.
Customer reviews rave about the park, with many praising its beauty and historical significance. Visitors have also highlighted the park's cleanliness and well-maintained green spaces. In summary, customers love MacArthur Park Lake for its picturesque setting, diverse attractions, and overall cleanliness.
- A beautiful neighborhood park
- Rich history with diverse attractions
- Well-maintained green spaces
- Perfect spot for a leisurely visit

12. Chatsworth Reservoir
Information and Reviews
13. Middle Lake
Information and Reviews
- Good discount.
- Was nothing in there
- Very beautiful lake
Customers have praised Middle Lake for its beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere it provides. Whether visitors are looking to relax by the water or enjoy a day of fishing, this lake offers a little something for everyone. Experience the wonders of nature at Middle Lake today!

14. Upper Stone Canyon Reservoir
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- This place is cool and refreshing in the morning, perfect for a peaceful visit.
- Some visitors may not have been physically present but still appreciate the location based on maps.
- Great place with enthusiastic fans who were delighted to visit.
- Positive reviews from visitors who enjoyed their time at the reservoir.
Don't miss out on experiencing the tranquility and beauty of Upper Stone Canyon Reservoir, a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles.

15. Rowena Reservoir
Information and Reviews
- One customer felt disappointed as they couldn't access the reservoir, wishing for more transparency about restrictions.
- Another visitor found the area to be a lovely place for a walk, appreciating the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- A different reviewer mentioned the beauty of the reservoir but expressed frustration at not being able to explore the paths fully.
With a Ranking of 2.5, Rowena Reservoir offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a quiet escape in the heart of Los Angeles.

16. Redwing Lake
Information and Reviews
The tranquil setting and clear waters make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The calming ambiance and scenic views make it the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Customer reviews praise Redwing Lake for its cleanliness, serenity, and abundance of wildlife. Visitors have described it as a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles.
- Clean and well-maintained surroundings
- Peaceful and serene atmosphere
- Great for fishing and bird watching
Experience the beauty of nature at Redwing Lake and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Map of Lakes Near Los Angeles
Los Angeles is not only known for its bustling city life and golden beaches, but also for its beautiful lakes that offer a serene escape from the urban chaos. Whether you're looking for a spot to go fishing, kayaking, or just to relax by the water, these lakes near Los Angeles are perfect destinations for a peaceful day trip.
What are some popular lakes near Los Angeles?
Some popular lakes near Los Angeles include Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Lake Gregory. These lakes are perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Big Bear Lake is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities, while Lake Arrowhead offers a picturesque setting for hiking and boating. Lake Gregory is a great spot for swimming and picnicking.
Whether you're looking to relax by the water or engage in water sports, these lakes provide a refreshing escape from the city hustle and bustle.
Can you swim in the lakes near Los Angeles?
Yes, many of the lakes near Los Angeles allow swimming. However, it's important to check for any local restrictions or guidelines before taking a dip in the water.
Some lakes may have designated swimming areas, while others may require a small fee for access to the beach. Also, be mindful of any potential hazards such as strong currents or underwater rocks.
Overall, swimming in the lakes near Los Angeles can be a fun and refreshing experience, especially during the hot summer months.
Are there fishing opportunities at the lakes near Los Angeles?
Absolutely! The lakes near Los Angeles are popular fishing destinations for anglers of all skill levels. Big Bear Lake and Lake Cahuilla are particularly known for their abundance of fish species.
Whether you prefer freshwater fishing for trout and bass or enjoy fly-fishing for rainbow trout, there are plenty of opportunities to cast your line at these lakes. Just make sure to obtain the necessary permits and follow any fishing regulations in place.
So grab your fishing gear and head to one of the nearby lakes for a relaxing day of angling in nature.
What recreational activities are available at the lakes near Los Angeles?
The lakes near Los Angeles offer a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From boating and kayaking to hiking and camping, there's something for everyone to partake in.
You can rent a boat and cruise around the lake, go paddleboarding or kayaking for a more active experience, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Many lakes also have picnic areas, playgrounds, and designated swimming spots for added enjoyment.
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the lakes near Los Angeles provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun and exploration.
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