Top 20 Lakes in Los Angeles County
Best lakes in Los Angeles County offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region encompasses a wide array of environments, from expansive reservoirs to tranquil urban oases. These bodies of water provide a refreshing escape from city life, with many located within parklands and open spaces. Los Angeles County's geography supports various lake types, making it a destination for outdoor activities.
Best lakes in Los Angeles County
- The most popular lakes is Century Lake, a lake that features…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Century Lake
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Malibu Lagoon State Beach
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Bluff Cove
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Malibu Creek Rock Pools
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Los Angeles River
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Eaton Canyon Waterfall
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Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead & Water Refill Station
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Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area
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Lake Balboa
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Canyon Lake Drive Overlook
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Popular around Los Angeles County
Bikepacking California — Into The Desert
Adventure Cycling Association's Bicycle Route 66 — LA to Chicago
Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada – 4,200 kilometres of wilderness
California Coastal Trail — Following the coastline from Mexico to Oregon
Trans-Catalina Trail — A new bay each day
The tour of your life – music trails on the Pacific coast
Historic Route 66 – curiosities, selfie spots and diners
On the most beautiful route of California - The Pacific Coast Route
Hiking in Los Angeles County
Road Cycling Routes in Los Angeles County
Other adventures in Los Angeles County
Tips from the Community
While bike paths through Malibu are 'here now" and suddenly gone and you're in traffic, there are few places as pleasant to visit by bicycle as Malibu. Be sure to bike up Malibu Road, but if you're adventurous and in good shape, take the bottom of Mulholland rd (from far north of Malibu) up to the valley side of the canyon. You can then reward yourself with a long downhill ride on curvy Decker. (You'll be on your breaks for miles). This is a great town to lunch, coffee or just watch the waves.
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As you ride along Palos Verdes Drive West, look down into Bluff Cove, a scenic rocky cove popular with local surfers, scuba divers, and snorkelers braveing the shoreline. A hiking trail descends to Bluff Cove Beach, with a steeper trail leading to Flat Rock Point, where you can explore tide pools at low tide. Walking south beyond the cove takes you into Palos Verdes Estate Shoreline Preserve, continuing to Palos Verdes Point and the rusted remains of a shipwreck along the Shipwreck Hiking Trail.
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Here you will find a water bottle refill station and signage for the 3.5-mile loop trail around Hollywood Reservoir. There are restrooms and free parking is available, though it may be tricky to find a spot midday.
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If you come down from Pincrest Dr, cross the bridge and keep right walking a loop to get under the bridge. From here follow the creek by crossing the stream over rocks and trunks around 10 times before you reach the small lake with the waterfall. Have great fun by taking a "shower".
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All along the Los Angeles River there is a parallel Greenway, covered by bridges and with some green areas ideal to rest at any point of the way. As you probably guessed, the river flows all the way through LA, so cycle's forecast is sightseeing!
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Lake Balboa Park is a charming place with plenty of parking space, picnic tables, a restaurant, public restrooms and a long greenway by the lake's shore. It is also known for the several Japanese Cherry Blossom trees all over the park's surface.
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Along the river there are several nice bike trails that allow you to avoid traffic and enjoy a bit of nature. The trails go under the bridges and give you a view of the river. On either side of the river there are several nice green areas like Lake Balboa Park, Balboa Sports Center and 3 municipal golf courses.
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If you are looking for a scenic and refreshing trail run in the Santa Monica Mountains, you should check out the Rock Pool at Malibu Creek State Park. This 2-mile out-and-back trail follows the creek through oak and sycamore woodlands, offering views of volcanic rock gorges and pools. The Rock Pool is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and even cliff-jumping, if you are feeling adventurous. You can also extend your run by exploring other trails in the park, such as the Grassland Trail or the M*A*S*H site. Just make sure to bring enough water, sunscreen, and trash bags, as the park can get hot and crowded in the summer. And don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of nature and the history of this park, which has been used as a filming location for many movies and TV shows.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes in Los Angeles County?
Yes, Los Angeles County offers several family-friendly lakes. Lake Balboa is known for its picnic areas, playgrounds, and pedal boating. Castaic Lake and Puddingstone Lake also provide extensive parklands with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and various recreational activities suitable for families. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area features playgrounds and scenic trails.
Which lakes in Los Angeles County are suitable for water sports like kayaking or boating?
For a wide range of water sports, Castaic Lake is excellent, offering power boating, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Pyramid Lake also allows boating, jet skiing, and offers unique boat-in picnic areas. Puddingstone Lake is another great option for swimming, sailing, boating, jet skiing, and windsurfing. For non-motorized options, Lake Balboa and Echo Park Lake offer pedal boating and kayaking.
Can I go hiking near the lakes in Los Angeles County?
Absolutely. Many lakes in Los Angeles County are surrounded by extensive trail systems. For example, the Hollywood Reservoir offers a paved trail with iconic views of the Hollywood Sign, accessible from the Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead. Malibu Creek State Park, home to Century Lake, provides numerous hiking trails through lush wetlands and groves. Puddingstone Lake also has 14 miles of multi-use trails. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking in Los Angeles County guide.
Are there any dog-friendly lakes or trails in Los Angeles County?
Yes, several areas around Los Angeles County lakes are dog-friendly. The Hollywood Reservoir, accessible via the Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead, is a popular spot for dog walkers. Lake Balboa also welcomes dogs in designated areas. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and check specific park regulations before visiting.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
Los Angeles County lakes offer diverse natural beauty. You can find lush wetlands and groves around Century Lake in Malibu Creek State Park. Echo Park Lake is famous for its blooming lotus flowers, while Lake Balboa boasts numerous Japanese cherry blossom trees. Pyramid Lake is nestled between national forests, offering scenic mountain views. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area features coastal sage scrub habitat, a lotus pond, and a Japanese Garden.
Are there historical sites or landmarks near the lakes in Los Angeles County?
Yes, some lakes have historical significance. Echo Park Lake and MacArthur Park Lake were among the original reservoirs supplying Los Angeles in the 1800s. Pyramid Lake was named for a pyramid-shaped rock carved during the construction of historic Route 99. Malibu Creek State Park, home to Century Lake, was a former 20th Century Fox Ranch and a filming location for *M*A*S*H* and *Planet of the Apes*.
What are the best lakes for fishing in Los Angeles County?
Castaic Lake is known for world-class fishing, while Pyramid Lake offers fishing for striped bass, trout, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Lake Balboa allows fly-fishing in designated areas (a license is required). Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area also features a dedicated fishing lake.
Can I camp near any of the lakes in Los Angeles County?
Yes, camping is available at some lakes. Castaic Lake State Recreation Area provides camping facilities. Pyramid Lake also offers camping options. Puddingstone Lake, within Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, is another destination where you can find camping opportunities.
What are some easy walking trails around the lakes in Los Angeles County?
For easy walks, the paved trail around the Hollywood Reservoir offers a peaceful environment. Lake Balboa features picturesque walking and jogging paths that encircle the lake. Echo Park Lake also has popular jogging paths. You can find more easy options in the Easy hikes in Los Angeles County guide, including the Lake Balboa Trail.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Los Angeles County?
Visitors appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from water sports and hiking to picnicking and enjoying nature. The serene escape from city life, scenic views (like the Hollywood Sign from the Hollywood Reservoir), and the unique charm of each lake are frequently highlighted. Many enjoy the tranquility and the chance to observe wildlife.
Are there any lakes in Los Angeles County that are accessible for wheelchairs?
While specific accessibility details vary by location, many parks surrounding the lakes offer paved paths and accessible facilities. For instance, the paved trail around the Hollywood Reservoir and the paths at Lake Balboa are generally flat and suitable for wheelchairs. It's always recommended to check the specific park's website or contact them directly for the most current accessibility information.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Los Angeles County?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking. Summer is ideal for water sports, though it's advisable to check for any advisories regarding water conditions, such as harmful algal blooms, especially in warmer months. Winter provides cooler weather, suitable for less strenuous walks.
Most popular routes in Los Angeles County
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