Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
North America
United States
California
Los Angeles County

Culver City

Top 6 Lakes around Culver City

Best lakes around Culver City are found within its urban landscape and nearby recreational areas. Culver City, located in Los Angeles County, California, is characterized by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and significant waterways like Ballona Creek. While natural lakes are scarce directly within the city, it offers access to channelized streams and a diverse park with a fishing lake. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, and wildlife observation.

Best lakes around Culver City

  • The…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area

Highlight β€’ Trail

With narrow paths, beautiful vistas, ponds covered in lily pads and a picture postcard view towards Downtown with the mountains rising behind, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is the perfect …

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Between the Marina and the beach is the remaining arm of the original natural laguna. The pedestrian bridge is a good viewpoint, and connection from the creekside trail to the beach.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Most of today's Marina del Rey and Venice used to be a large natural wetland. Today the originally large lagoon it essentially narrowed down to a wide canal and a …

Tip by

Save

Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve

Highlight β€’ Natural

Ballona Wetlands, one of the last major marshes in Los Angeles County. Sadly, many wetlands in the area have been filled for urban development. The Ballona Freshwater Marsh can be …

Tip by

Save

View of Franklin Canyon Reservoir

Highlight β€’ Viewpoint

The park is currently closed for cars, hence the parking spot in the canyon can't be used. Nevertheless, a total 1 hour hike provides you with a view to the …

Tip by

Save

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Culver City

Hiking around Culver City

Cycling around Culver City

Road Cycling Routes around Culver City

Running Trails around Culver City

MTB Trails around Culver City

Gravel biking around Culver City

Tips from the Community

GJM
March 1, 2024, View of Franklin Canyon Reservoir

The park is currently closed for cars, hence the parking spot in the canyon can't be used. Nevertheless, a total 1 hour hike provides you with a view to the reservoir, which remains empty. Bring good shoes because the trail is carved from the heavy rain in the past weeks.

0

0

The wetlands reserve on the far side of the marina ditch is a hotbed of conservation efforts, with more than 100,000 volunteers helping to clean trash, remove invasive plants and restore native plants over the years. It's a marvel of perseverance and the impacts we humans can have on the earth β€” both positive and negative. More than 260 bird species have been seen in the restored area, though, so it looks like the "positive" effects are winning.

0

0

Ballona Wetlands, one of the last major marshes in Los Angeles County. Sadly, many wetlands in the area have been filled for urban development. The Ballona Freshwater Marsh can be observed from a 0.75-mile walking path along Jefferson and Lincoln Boulevards during daylight hours.

0

0

With narrow paths, beautiful vistas, ponds covered in lily pads and a picture postcard view towards Downtown with the mountains rising behind, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is the perfect place to escape the trouble of the big city. It is also known als L. A.s "Central Park" with nice hiking trails and large enough for a longer run.

0

0

With narrow paths, beautiful vistas, ponds covered in lily pads and a picture postcard view towards Downtown with the mountains rising behind, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is the perfect place to escape the trouble of the big city. It is also known als L. A.s "Central Park" with nice hiking trails and large enough for a longer hike or several smaller walks.

0

0

Most of today's Marina del Rey and Venice used to be a large natural wetland. Today the originally large lagoon it essentially narrowed down to a wide canal and a small network of manmade drainage channels. The original channels in Venice have mostly been filled with houses meanwhile.

1

0

Nice little harbor. Parking space available.

Translated by Googleβ€’

0

1

Between the Marina and the beach is the remaining arm of the original natural laguna. The pedestrian bridge is a good viewpoint, and connection from the creekside trail to the beach.

3

1

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes near Culver City?

The area around Culver City's waterways and recreational areas offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the Ballona Creek bike path, which connects to the Marvin Braude coastal path. For running, there are routes like the "Baldwin Hills – Kenneth Hahn Recreation Area" or the "Ballona Creek Bike Path – Ballona Creek loop". Hiking is popular at Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area, which features over seven miles of trails. You can find more detailed routes for various sports in the running trails, MTB trails, and road cycling routes guides around Culver City.

Are there family-friendly lakes or recreational areas near Culver City?

Yes, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is highly recommended for families. It offers picnic sites, barbecue pits, playgrounds, and a community center, alongside its fishing lake and extensive trails. The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve also has a 0.75-mile walking path suitable for families to observe wildlife.

Where can I go fishing near Culver City?

The fishing lake at Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is a popular spot for angling. It is regularly stocked with trout or catfish, depending on the season. For specific fishing permit requirements, it's advisable to check with the park authorities directly.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes and wetlands?

The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, including the Ballona Freshwater Marsh, is a significant habitat for over 260 bird species. You can also spot various bird species like mallard ducks, ruddy ducks, and snowy egrets at the fishing lake in Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area. Ballona Creek is also known for bird-watching.

Are there any dog-friendly areas around the lakes in Culver City?

While specific dog policies can vary and change, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area generally allows dogs on leash on its trails. For the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, it's best to check current regulations as sensitive ecological areas often have restrictions to protect wildlife. Always ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.

What is the best time to visit Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area?

Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is enjoyable year-round, offering diverse experiences. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for hiking and enjoying the Japanese garden. The fishing lake is stocked seasonally, so check for trout or catfish availability if fishing is your primary interest. The park's panoramic views are stunning on clear days, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Are there any unique natural features or viewpoints to explore?

Yes, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area offers panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean, and the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Mountains. It also features extensive natural coastal sage scrub habitat and a Japanese garden. The Ballona Lagoon β€” Marina Del Rey provides a pedestrian bridge that serves as a good viewpoint over the remaining arm of the original natural laguna.

Can I find wheelchair-accessible trails near Culver City's lakes?

While specific accessibility details for all trails vary, the paved multi-use path along Ballona Creek is generally accessible for wheelchairs, offering a unique urban outdoor experience. For Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area, some paved paths and picnic areas are accessible, but it's advisable to check the park's official website for the most current accessibility information.

What is the Ballona Creek and what can I do there?

Ballona Creek is an 8.5 to 8.8-mile channelized stream that flows through Culver City to Marina del Rey. It features a paved Class I multi-use path along its northern bank, popular for cycling, walking, and jogging. Along the path, you can see murals and enjoy bird-watching. It's a vital part of the local ecosystem and offers a unique urban outdoor experience.

Are there cafes or pubs near Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area?

Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is located within the Baldwin Hills area, which is surrounded by residential neighborhoods and commercial districts. While there aren't cafes or pubs directly *inside* the park, you will find various dining options, including cafes and restaurants, a short drive away in the surrounding Culver City and Baldwin Hills areas.

What is the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve known for?

The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve is one of the last major marshes in Los Angeles County. It's renowned for its rich biodiversity, serving as a critical habitat for over 260 bird species. The reserve includes the Ballona Freshwater Marsh, which can be observed from a 0.75-mile walking path, making it a prime location for bird-watching and appreciating conservation efforts.

How long does it take to walk around the lake at Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area?

The fishing lake at Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is part of a larger park with over seven miles of trails. A walk specifically around the lake itself would be relatively short, likely taking 30-60 minutes depending on your pace and how much you explore the immediate surroundings. However, many visitors combine a lake stroll with longer hikes through the park's diverse landscape.

Most popular routes around Culver City

Easy hikes around Culver City

Most popular attractions around Culver City

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With aΒ free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Culver City? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

Los AngelesWest HollywoodBeverly HillsGlendaleSanta Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaSanta Monica MountainsBurbankMalibuSan Gabriel MountainsLong BeachWestlake VillageSanta Fe SpringsCerritosLa MiradaNorwalkLa Habra HeightsIndustryAgoura HillsTopangaLakewoodDiamond BarCalabasasRowland HeightsAngeles National ForestArtesiaHacienda HeightsSignal HillUniversitΓ© Pepperdine BellflowerHawaiian GardensWhittierMonroviaSouth WhittierSan DimasLa VerneGlendoraEast WhittierSanta MonicaHidden HillsCitrusAzusaSan GabrielSan Gabriel Mountains National MonumentAlhambraMonterey ParkParamountWest CovinaEast San GabrielMarina Del ReySouth PasadenaPasadenaManhattan BeachInglewoodLadera HeightsLennoxEl SegundoCovinaVincentDel AireCharter OakView Park-Windsor HillsIrwindaleEast Los AngelesRosemeadSouth San GabrielWalnut

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Ladera Heights

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

Β© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy