Lakes in Southern California: Ideas for your Next Gateway!

This article focuses on the most awesome lakes in Southern California.  Take a look at where they are and what you can do close to them.

Beaches come to mind when you think about Southern California.  The image of boardwalks, piers, and palm trees can easily describe one of the state’s biggest pulls.

But, what about lakes? Yes, lakes.

Southern California has plenty of them.  The best thing is that the public has the opportunity to use these places for recreational purposes.

I love beaches but lakes are pretty awesome too!  In this article, I am providing a detailed list of the best lakes in Southern California.

Please note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link. Of course, this comes at no extra cost to you and helps me to keep offering solid information to readers.

About These Lakes in Southern California

First, let’s talk about how I am defining Southern California.  For the purposes of this article, I am using the eight counties description.  My guide includes lakes in the Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.

There many lakes in Southern California (more than you think).  Because of that, it is not possible to include every single one here.  I have decided to include lakes with developed facilities and a variety of amenities.  In other words, lakes with a lot to do in and around them.

Keep in mind that with the great weather we have in California, lakes can be visited all year round.  There are things to do suitable for different seasons.

Lakes in Southern California

I am providing information about the amenities and food facilities at each lake.  Also, I am giving you an idea of how far are these places from the big cities in the area.

Pyramid Lake

I think every Angeleno has seen the blue and green waters of Pyramid Lake when driving to the San Joaquin Valley through I-5.

This reservoir, formed by the Pyramid Dam, is an excellent place to escape the hustling and bustling of the big city without having to commit to a long drive.  The pyramid structure, that gives the lake its name, is located in front of the dam.  This is a pretty large lake with a 21 miles shoreline.

The Vista del Lago Visitors Center has a large viewing platform open to the public.  You can stop by just for the view even if you have no plans to use the facilities.  In addition, the visitors center has educative exhibitions about geology and water supply systems.

This is bear country so, it is important to follow the signs posted on-site at all times.

Activities: Camping, fishing, boating, jet-skiing, picnicking, and swimming

Where to Eat: Bring your own food.  There are not a lot of eating options located nearby.

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. No entrance after 9:00 p.m. (even for campers)

Distance from Santa Barbara: 92 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 60 miles

Distance from San Diego: 176 miles

Castaic Lake

Very close to Pyramid Lake, you will find Castaic Lake.  This is Southern California’s largest reservoir and, apart from serving as a source of freshwater, it has been dedicated to serving the public as a recreational area.

The lower lake has about 3 miles of shoreline (or beach) and several acres of shallow water suitable for equipment such as float tubes, kayaks, and canoes.

Activities: Camping, fishing, boating, hiking, kayaking, sailing, swimming

Where to Eat: Bring your own food.  There are not a lot of eating options located nearby.

Operating Hours: Depends on the season.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 78 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 45 miles

Distance from San Diego: 165 miles

Cachuma Lake

Not a lot of people living in Southern California have heard about this place but I think is one of the most idyllic places in the area.  Since it is surrounded by the Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, it feels like a mountain retreat.  The good news is that you do not have to drive ugly, twisted roads to reach it.

From Santa Barbara (or Highway 101), you can reach Lake Cachuma in a scenic way by taking Highway 154.  You will get great views of the mountains and the coast.

There is a lot to do in and around the lake.  You can visit the Neal Taylor Nature Center, take a narrated lake cruise, take a dip in a swimming pool or take a hike in the early morning. And, there are all those wineries located nearby (like dozens of them).  Bring the entire family for a couple of days of fun!

Activities: Fishing, hiking, camping, lake cruises, playgrounds.  You can stay in one of the yurts located inside the recreational area

Where to Eat: I recommend bringing some food even though there is a general store on-site.  The towns in the Santa Ynez Valley (Solvang, Santa Ynez, and Buellton) are located nearby.  You can drive there for breakfast or lunch if you prefer (they have some good restaurants).  Keep in mind these are small places and businesses close before 7:00 p.m.

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to sunset

Distance from Santa Barbara: 22 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 120 miles

Distance from San Diego: 240 miles

Lake Casitas

Lake Casitas, located in Ventura County, is a man-made lake created by a dam.  Like with many other reservoirs, a recreational area was created close to the lake shores.

The recreational area can be seen as a mini-city.  It has 400 campsites, a café, a store and trailer storage. On top of that, there is a popular water park within the facilities.  Make sure to reserve tickets in advancement since they sell out often.

Activities: Camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, biking, hiking, water park, lazy river. Swimming in the lake is not allowed.

Where to Eat:  There is a café (breakfast and lunch) and a store on-site.  It is a good idea to bring snacks and drinks.

Operating Hours: Daily use area is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Waterpark is open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 27 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 80 miles

Distance from San Diego: 200 miles

Big Bear Lake

This is one of the most popular high-altitude (7,000 feet in the San Bernardino National Forest) escapes for Angelenos and a popular favorite.  We associate the area with snow and skiing.  Winter tends to be the most popular season to visit.

Even though the winter connotation is strong, this resort is in business all year long and I prefer to visit when there is no snow in sight. Because, in all honesty, spring, summer, and fall are gorgeous seasons to visit.

This is a huge lake (man-made).  There are tons of things to do and you will need several visits to get to know the area well.  You can take a scenic drive around the lake, take a guided boat tour, hike, kayak, bike or chill out in a cabin.

Plus, there is a village full of restaurants, cafes, shops, ice cream parlors, and even a movie theater.  This resort caters to the entire family since there are several activities to choose from.

Activities: Boating, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, fishing, parasailing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, zip lining, helicopter tours, off-roading. During winter, you can ski and snow tube.

Where to Eat: You can visit The Village.  There is a wide array of restaurants serving dishes from different cuisines (American, Indian, Italian, Thai).

Operating Hours: Vary per attraction.  Check specific businesses for more info.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 185 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 96 miles

Distance from San Diego: 145 miles

Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead is located 24 miles from Big Bear Lake.  Consequently, you can hit two birds with a stone while in the area (or choose to concentrate in only one area).

Lake Arrowhead is smaller than Big Bear Lake but the surrounding village is reminiscent of an alpine or Bavarian town.  In some way, this resort is more upscale.

While in town, you can walk around the village (which has a lake promenade), take a boat tour, or have lunch with views of the lake. There are 5-star accommodations and restaurants serving all sorts of dishes.

Arrowhead is a private lake.  Thus, swimming is not allowed to the general public.

Activities: Hiking, backpacking, water skiing, biking, fishing, camping

Where to Eat: The several restaurants in The Village.

Operating Hours: Vary per attraction.  Check specific businesses for more info.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 170 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 80 miles

Distance from San Diego: 129 miles

Lake Gregory

Since swimming in Lake Arrowhead is not allowed, nearby Lake Gregory offers beaches and all imaginable water-related activities.

It has a beautiful location within the San Bernardino Mountains.  The only negative is that you have to pay for parking, entrance, water park and use of equipment.  When adding all the different fees, you will end up paying prices similar to water parks in the city.  It is something to consider if you are on a budget.

Activities: Swimming, paddle boats, slides, inflatable water play structures, diving platforms, swings

Where to Eat: Cove Cafe

Operating Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 162 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 74 miles

Distance from San Diego: 124 miles

Photo by Phil Scoville

Silverwood Lake

As opposed to Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Lake Gregory, Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area can be accessed through the freeway (I-15).  There is no need to battle mountain roads!

Part of the lake is located inside a State Recreational Area.  The park has 13 miles of hiking and biking trails.  As a matter of fact, the Pacific Crest Trail passes through the park. The other interesting thing is that bald eagle watching tours are offered from January to March (on Saturdays).

Activities: Day use area, hiking, swimming, camping, boating, water skiing, fishing

Where to Eat: Café and store on-site but it is a good idea to bring food, snacks, and water

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 170 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 80 miles

Distance from San Diego: 140 miles

Photo by Don Graham

Lake Perris

I have been to Lake Perris many times and, even though it is not my first choice for a lake getaway, I am including it in this list since it is one of the biggest lakes in Southern California.

This is a desert area and as such it gets extremely hot during summer.  A lot of people go to the lake to cool down but keep in mind you will need to bring equipment to cover you from the sun (umbrellas, tents).  There are some big trees located feet away from the shore.  You can find some refuge under those.

I do not recommend hiking or biking during summer (unless it is very early or when the sun is going down).  Shadow in the camping area is limited.

Activities: Camping, boating, hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding

Where to Eat: The town of Perris is located nearby and it has a decent selection of places to eat.  However, I will recommend bringing food to the lake.

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 166 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 72 miles

Distance from San Diego: 90 miles

Lake Elsinore

This is another lake I am not that excited about.  I am including it here since it may be a good camping option for those passing by.  Plus, some of my friends enjoy the area.  So, maybe it is not the kind of place I would frequent but it may be appealing to others.

The interesting thing is that this is the largest natural freshwater lake in Southern California.

Activities: Boating, jet-skiing, waterskiing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, camping, golfing (nearby camp)

Where to Eat: The cities of Lake Elsinore and Murrieta are located nearby

Operating Hours: The public beach area is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 165 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 70 miles

Distance from San Diego: 75 miles

Lake Hodges

I have a feeling Lake Hodges is not that well known by residents of Southern California.  Because of that, it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors away from the crowds.

There is a day-use area open to the public.  In there, you will find barbecues, picnic tables, and restrooms.  Dogs are allowed on a leash.  Boats, canoes, rowboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are allowed on the lake.  An on-site concessionaire rents water equipment.

The lake is stocked with bass, sunfish, catfish, crappie, and carp. The lake store sells fishing supplies (open only during the fishing season). 

There are over 7 miles of hiking trails in the area.  As a matter of fact, the trail on the northern shore of the lake is part of the Coast to Crest Trail, a 70-mile planned trail (over 65% of the trail has been completed).

Activities: Fishing, hiking, picnicking

Where to Eat: You may find something to eat in nearby Rancho Bernardo (a neighborhood of the City of San Diego) or Escondido but it is recommendable to have provisions and drinks with you

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 205 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 110 miles

Distance from San Diego: 35 miles

Lake Murray

The good thing about Lake Murray is that it is located inside the popular Mission Trails Regional Park.  Since the lake is located within San Diego’s city limits, it is one of the residents’ favorite playgrounds.

There are 60 miles of trails, a visitor’s center, guided tours, and opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and small mammals.  Camping is allowed in the Lake Kumeyaay area. This is one of the easiest places to grab a campsite in San Diego (even in high season).  Overall, this is a fun area to explore with the entire family.  As mentioned, you are very close to all of San Diego’s attractions.

Activities: Fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, picnicking, camping

Where to Eat: You may be able to find something to eat in the area but I recommend bringing your own food.

Operating Hours: The visitor’s center is open from 9:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 220 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 122 miles

Distance from San Diego: 12 miles

Vail Lake

Vail Lake is a reservoir covering a 1,737 square mile area. The recreation space surrounding the reservoir has 385-acres of open space with lots of amenities. 

A lot of people love to camp around the lake since it provides easy access to the many wineries located in Temecula (about 13 miles away) and hikes in Cleveland National Forest.  

The Vail Lake Loop is a great option for hikers. This moderate 7.2 miles long trail has excellent views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.  Keep in mind you can hike as much as you want (you do not have to complete the loop).

Activities: You will find about 467 campsites, three beautiful swimming pools, basketball courts, an 18-hole mini-golf course, horseshoe pits, pickleball courts, and over 200 acres dedicated to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding (facilities are managed by KOA).

Where to Eat: There is a snack bar on-site but I recommend bringing your own food.  You can grab something to eat in Temecula.

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours for campers.  Day use hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 192 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 98 miles

Distance from San Diego: 70 miles

Lake Skinner

Lake Skinner, also known as Skinner Reservoir, is a popular recreational area administered by Riverside County. This beautiful lake sits at the foot of Bachelor Mountain in the Auld Valley. 

This is a great place for a picnic, family weekend trip, and/or camping with friends.  The site has about 200 full hookup sites, 18 sites with water and electricity, and 40 sites with water only.

This is another spot located super close to Temecula’s wine country (the lake is pretty much in the wineries’ backyard).

Day-use admission is $6 and it is good for most amenities (showers, restrooms, splash pad, horseshoe pits, tables, BBQs, etc).

Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, sailing, horseback riding, camping

Where to Eat: You can grab something to eat in Temecula or Murrietta.

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to Sunset

Distance from Santa Barbara: 190 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 94 miles

Distance from San Diego: 71 miles

Lake Cahuilla

Lake Cahuilla, located in La Quinta, feels like a secluded getaway even though it is relatively close to the city center and other cities in the Coachella Valley.

Another positive is that there seems to be plenty of camping availability.  If you live in Southern California, you may know campsites get filled super quickly.

The lake offers camping, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding opportunities.  Day users are welcomed.  Swimming is not allowed in the lake but there is a pool on-site.  In addition, there is a campsite dedicated to equestrians.

The lake is located in the desert.  Therefore, it is better to avoid the area during the summer months.

Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, camping, wildlife viewing (it is easy to spot bighorn sheep)

Where to Eat: Old Town La Quinta is full of great restaurants

Operating Hours: Varies with the season.  Operating hours are shorter during summer (May-Sep).  The recreation area is closed some days during summer as well.

Distance from Santa Barbara: 232 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 136 miles

Distance from San Diego: 138 miles

Lake Cuyamaca

Lake Cuyamaca may not be as big or popular as other lakes in Southern California but I need to include it because the area surrounding it is gorgeous.

There are campsites and cabins surrounding the lake.  There is more camping at nearby Rancho Cuyamaca State Park.  In addition, the lake is popular with boaters and fishermen.

On top of that, there are miles of hiking trails located in Ranch Cuyamaca State Park and Mount Laguna (suitable for all ages and skills).  It is easy to spot wildlife such as deer, woodpeckers, squirrels, and rabbits.

And, you may pass by the town of Julian on the route.  Stop to have a piece of apple pie.

Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, boating, horseback riding, camping, wildlife viewing

Where to Eat: You can grab something to eat in the Lake Cuyamaca Restaurant (try the chicken potpie and the pies).  There are several restaurants in the town of Julian.

Operating Hours: 6:00 a.am. To Sunset

Distance from Santa Barbara: 260 miles

Distance from Los Angeles: 164 miles

Distance from San Diego: 52 miles

Other Lakes in Southern California

• Lake Henshaw (CA-76, close to Warner Springs)
• Dixon Lake (Escondido)
• Lake Wohlford (Escondido)
• Lake Piru
• Hollywood Reservoir
• Franklin Canyon Reservoir
• Silver Lake Reservoir
• Echo Lake
• Puddingstone Lake/Reservoir
• Irvine Lake
• Peter Canyon Reservoir
• Barbara Lake
• Lake Matthews
• Diamond Valley Lake
• Lake Hemet
• Lake Ramona
• Lake Poway
• Sweetwater Reservoir
• Lower Otay Lake
• Lake Morena
• Lake Havasu

Well, we are done exploring the lakes in Southern California.  I hope this article has provided enough ideas and inspiration for a future trip.  If you have more ideas in terms of lakes, let me know in the comments section.

Lake Gear

As I spend a lot of time near lakes, I have my gear packed and ready to throw in the car.  Here is an idea of what I take to the lake (notice a lot of the gear is similar to the gear you will use at a beach).

• Easy Set Up Beach Tent –  This is essential since most lakes in California do not have shaded areas.  >Check out this great tent option here
• Walking Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must.  My go-to brands are Clarks, Tevas, and Sketchers. 

• Flip Flops – Flip flops are a must on any lake trip.  I am partial to the Tevas brand.  >>Take a look at these beautiful flip flops
• Water Sandals – If you want a more polished look, check out these leather-made salt water sandals.
• Sweatshirt – A sweatshirt is a must to keep me warm during chilly mornings and nights. >Click to see this California appropriate option here
• Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock.  I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sunblock here
• Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
• Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck.  The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function.  >Buy this amazing hat here
• Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun.  A polarized, sporty pair works better outdoors. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
• Towels –  This is the accessory I always forget about.  WETCAT’s Turkish Towels take minimum space and dry fast.  >Buy a Turkish towel here
• Foldable Chairs – Portable chairs allow you to set camp at the beach, park, winery, and even a parking lot. A classic Coleman portable chair is a solid choice. >>Buy portable camping chair
• Blanket – For laying on the beach or grass, a blanket is necessary.  Good ones are waterproof, sandproof, and light.  The blankets manufactured by Wekapo fit several adults and are durable.  >Buy this nice beach blanket here
• Soft Cooler Bag – A soft cooler bag with enough capacity is great for having drinks and some food items at hand.  I love my CleverMade collapsible cooler bag.  >Take a look at my cooler here
• Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle.  >Check out the insane options here
• THERMOS Tumblers – I have been a fan of the THERMOS brand since I received a tumbler as a gift. The tumblers keep drinks hot for hours.  >>Buy THERMOS insulated tumblers here
• Dry Bag – Keep your valuables (and electronics) protected by bringing a dry bag.  >These dry bag is awesome
• Beach Bag or Large Tote – Carry all your gear on an amazing beach bag.  Get one with tons of pockets (I love pockets).  >>>Check out my beach bag top pick
• Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone.  I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000.  It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
• Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
• Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on lake trips.  Having a power bank is a lifesaver.  The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions I get about Southern California lakes (and about California lakes in general).

What are some lakes in Southern California for swimming?

You can swim at Pyramid Lake, Castaic Lake, Big Bear Lake (there are designated beach areas), Lake Gregory, Silverwood Lake, Lake Perris, and Lake Elsinore.

You cannot swim at Lake Cachuma or Vail Lake but there are pools within their recreational facilities.

What are some lakes in Southern California with cabins?

Big Bear Lake has lakefront cabins and cabins located close to the lake.  The same rentals can be found at Lake Arrowhead.  Green Lake, a small lake located between Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead offers cabin rentals as well.

I recommend heading to a rental site with a good reputation in the area where you want to rent.  They can get you exactly what you are looking for.

Santee Lakes (near San Diego) has floating cabins for rent.

What are some mountain lakes in Southern California?

Lake Cachuma is located within the San Rafael and Santa Ynez Mountains (Los Padres National Forest).

Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Lake Gregory, and Silverwood Lake are located in the San Bernardino National Forest.  Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 feet.

Cuyamaca Lake is located in the Cuyamaca Mountains 

What are some lakes for fishing in Southern California?

You can fish at all the lakes featured in this article.

What are some lakes near Los Angeles?

My article dedicated to Lakes in Los Angeles answers this question.

More Lake Escapes

California is a land of lakes.  If you enjoy these bodies of water, then California is the place for you.

If you are exploring Northern California, then you need to check my article dedicated to Lakes in Northern California. 

This article will cover lakes in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and lakes located close to popular sports such as San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, and Sierra National Forest.

Here are other articles related to lakes in northern or central California.

Driving around Lake Tahoe

Photos of Lake Tahoe

Mammoth Lakes Basin

June Lake Loop

Mono Lake

Also, I have an article dedicated to lake camping in California.

Lakes for Camping in California

And, do not miss my Lakes in Los Angeles and Lakes in San Diego articles.

More of Southern California

Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List

Ultimate San Diego Bucket List

150+ Places to Go in Orange County

200+ Places to Visit in Santa Barbara

Ventura County Bucket List

What are your favorite lakes in Southern California?

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