10 Beautiful Southern California Lakes With A Magical Aura About Them
It’s been a long while since we’ve been able to enjoy the beauty of our Southern California’s lakes due to the ongoing drought in the state. But now that water levels have finally increased due to recent rains, we can now head out to the lake and enjoy a day on the water. Here are ten of our favorite lakes that are perfect for an afternoon of outdoor adventure for the whole family.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Take a peek through these towering trees and you'll see a magical lake waiting to be explored in the small town of Mentone in San Bernardino County. Jenks Lake is a day-use area only so no camping is allowed, but you can pack your day with fishing, boating, hiking and picnicking to get your lakeside fix in a single afternoon.
Only a 1-2 hour drive from most major areas of Southern California, this is one lake getaway that will get you out of the city and back into nature. This 110-acre lake located in the town of Julian is where you can take part in boating, hiking, bird watching, and fishing. Make a day trip out of it, or pack the tent and sleeping bags and turn it into a camping trip.
Just look at that view! Located at the base of Palomar Mountain in San Diego County, Lake Henshaw is a popular area for lake enthusiasts. Fishing, boating, and nearby hiking are just a few of the activities that draw people to Lake Henshaw.
Silverwood Lake is a great destination for the outdoor adventurer who enjoys lakeside hiking, boating, and even water skiing. Grab your outdoor equipment and head to Inland Empire where you will find this relaxing yet adventurous lakeside destination.
Tucked inside Lake Murray Community Park in San Diego is where you will find this hidden lake. Head here for a day of strolling near a calm body of water. Make sure to bring along a bag of bread to feed the ducks.
Just outside wine country in Temecula, you'll find this expansive lake in Riverside County where you can spend an entire day having wonderful adventures in and out of the water. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and sailing right on the lake, or partake in other park activities with a lakeside view such as horseback riding, camping, and hiking.
What a blast to spend the day out on Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles. Rent a paddle boat and head out on the water or just enjoy the view from the sidelines and relax under a delightful yellow umbrella.
Located in Lake Gregory Regional Park in the San Bernardino National Forest, this pristine lake is a great way to spend an afternoon with friends and family. One of the best parts about Lake Gregory is that power boats are not allowed on the lake, so you can have a nice peaceful day on the water surrounded by nothing but tranquility. Doesn't that sound relaxing?! Make sure to come prepared to pay for parking which currently costs $10 per car.
Castaic Lake is located in the town of Castaic inside a state recreational area. From fishing to boating and camping, this is one lake that has quite a following for a variety of outdoor activities. Make sure to bring along cash for the entry fee which is currently $11 plus additional fees for any recreational vehicles entering the park.
One spot you won't want to miss in SoCal is this stunning blue lake that's open year-round. Spend the day hiking and fishing at Dixon Lake then stay for an overnighter under the stars at the campsite.
These spots look absolutely magical! Do you have a favorite lake in Southern California that you love going to each year?
If you’re interested in some other fun water-related activities in SoCal, you’ll also want to take a look at these 8 Hot Springs in Southern California that will completely relax you.
