TOP 10 Picnic areas near lakes in California

Located in Castro Valley, California, the Lake Chabot Marina & Café is a hidden gem just 30 minutes away from San Francisco. This picturesque destination offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, boat rentals, and bay area kayak tours. The café at Lake Chabot serves delicious food and provides a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day of adventure. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, lush green hills, and serene waters while exploring the area on pedal boats or participating in guided tours. The institution is popular among anglers, families, hikers, runners, and dog owners. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lake Chabot has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this unique and special destination in the Bay Area!

Cachuma Lake Store is a convenient one-stop shop located in Santa Barbara, California. Situated at 2275 California 154, this store offers a wide variety of goods including food, groceries, and other convenient items. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, Cachuma Lake Store is the perfect place to stock up on essentials or grab a quick bite to eat. With its convenient location and diverse selection of products, this store is a must-visit destination for all your shopping needs.

Mountain Lake Park Playground is a charming tourist attraction located at 1 12th Avenue in San Francisco, California. Nestled in the heart of the city, this playground offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural scenery. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax or a fun-filled day out with the family, Mountain Lake Park Playground is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages.

Lake Merced Overlook Community Space is a tranquil park located at 398 Vidal Drive in San Francisco, California. This beautiful institution offers a stunning view of Lake Merced and provides a peaceful space for the community to come together and enjoy the outdoors. With walking paths, picnic areas, and benches overlooking the water, visitors can relax and unwind in the serene surroundings. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with friends, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Lake Merced Overlook Community Space is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Temescal Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 6500 Broadway in Oakland, California, United States. The park is open between 5am and 10pm, with gate hours from 8am to 10pm. Park curfew is from 10pm to 5am. Swim hours and fees vary depending on the day. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for buses and dogs. The park offers various amenities such as accessible drinking fountains, barbeques, and wheelchair accessible trails. The historic Beach House facility is available for events and weddings, offering a panoramic view of Lake Temescal. Fishing and picnicking are popular activities at the park, with designated areas for swimming. The park has a rich history, originally constructed as a storage lake for drinking water in 1936. Visit Temescal Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing day in nature.

Tilden Nature Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 600 Canon Drive in Berkeley, California, United States. Open daily from 5am to 10pm, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming at Lake Anza, riding the carousel, visiting the Botanic Garden, and hiking through the park's 2,079 acres of natural beauty. Named after Charles Lee Tilden, the park offers wheelchair accessible facilities including the Steam Train, Merry-Go-Round, Little Farm, and the Environmental Education Center. Picnic areas with barbecues are available for reservation, as well as venues for weddings and events such as Lakeview, Laurel, and the Brazil Building. With stunning views of Tilden Park and a range of activities for all ages, Tilden Nature Area is a must-visit destination in the East Bay area.

The Pergola at Lake Merritt is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 599 El Embarcadero in Oakland, California. This stunning structure overlooks the tranquil waters of Lake Merritt and provides a perfect spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The Pergola is a popular spot for weddings, picnics, and leisurely strolls, offering a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture of the Pergola, take in the scenic views of the lake, and unwind in this serene setting. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a beautiful backdrop for your special event, The Pergola at Lake Merritt is a must-visit destination in Oakland.

he East Bay Regional Park District for over 30 years. The park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including picnicking, swimming, hiking, and archery. With its lush redwood grove setting and historical significance, Roberts Regional Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or engage in outdoor activities, this park has something for everyone. Visit Roberts Regional Recreation Area for a day of fun and relaxation in the heart of Oakland, California.

Vasona Lake County Park is a picturesque park located in Los Gatos, California. Situated at 333 Blossom Hill Road, this park is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning views of Vasona Lake and the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, biking, and boating. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a train ride for children. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Vasona Lake County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and families looking to spend a relaxing day outdoors.

Stivers Lagoon Nature Area is a serene park located at 40500 Paseo Padre Parkway in Fremont, California. This beautiful nature area offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, tranquil lagoons, and scenic walking paths, Stivers Lagoon Nature Area is the perfect place to connect with nature and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or have a picnic with family and friends, this park has something for everyone. Come and explore the natural beauty of Stivers Lagoon Nature Area today!

Ellis Lake Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1736 Clayton Road in Concord, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, tranquil lake, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy picnicking by the water, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the peaceful surroundings. Ellis Lake Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Hidden Lake Park is a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Milpitas, California. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features a hidden lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and birdwatching. With its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, Hidden Lake Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the natural beauty of California, Hidden Lake Park is a must-visit destination.

Playground | Lake Cunningham is a popular recreational destination located at Cunningham Lake Court in San Jose, California. This beautiful lakeside playground offers a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including playground equipment, picnic areas, walking trails, and stunning views of the lake. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day by the water or have some fun with your family, Playground | Lake Cunningham is the perfect spot to unwind and make lasting memories. Visit today and experience the natural beauty and endless entertainment options that this institution has to offer.

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 2500 Stanley Blvd in Pleasanton, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can swim at the designated hours when lifeguards are on duty, or at their own risk outside of those times. Parking fees apply, and there are additional fees for boating, fishing permits, and bringing dogs into the park. Shadow Cliffs was originally a gravel quarry donated to the Park District in 1971, and has since been developed into a 266-acre park with an 80-acre lake. The park features facilities for persons with disabilities, accessible parking, trails, and restrooms. Beach wheelchairs are available for free to assist wheelchair users in navigating the sandy beach area. The park also has a wheelchair accessible fishing pier and interpretive pavilion.

Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park is a picturesque destination located at 10840 Coyote Lake Road in Gilroy, California. This institution offers a range of outdoor activities and amenities, including camping facilities, lodging options, and a beautiful park for visitors to explore. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventurous getaway, this park has something for everyone. Plan your next trip with the help of their travel agency services and make unforgettable memories at Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park.

Almaden Lake Park is a picturesque park located in San Jose, California, United States. Situated at 6099 Winfield Boulevard, this popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnicking, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The park also features a beautiful lake where visitors can rent paddle boats and kayaks. With its lush greenery and stunning views, Almaden Lake Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Park/Charles Paddock Zoo is a charming institution located in Atascadero, California, United States. This park features a beautiful lake where visitors can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The park is also home to the Charles Paddock Zoo, where guests can observe a variety of exotic animals up close. With lush greenery, picnic areas, and educational exhibits, Lake Park/Charles Paddock Zoo is the perfect destination for a fun and educational day out with family and friends.

Salt Lake Park is a sprawling recreational area located in Huntington Park, California. This popular tourist attraction covers a vast expanse of green space, perfect for picnics, outdoor activities, and leisurely strolls. The park features a beautiful lake, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths, making it a favorite destination for families and visitors of all ages. With its tranquil setting and scenic views, Salt Lake Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or engage in some outdoor fun, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Little Lake Park is a charming oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Fe Springs, California. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its serene lake, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths, Little Lake Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply soak up the beauty of nature, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Little Lake Park, located at 10900 Pioneer Boulevard in Santa Fe Springs, California.

Lake Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 1035 11th Street in Huntington Beach, California. This beautiful green space offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush lawns, towering trees, and tranquil lake. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the winding pathways, have a picnic on the grassy knolls, or simply relax by the water's edge. Lake Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to unwind in a natural setting in the heart of Huntington Beach.

Lake Forest Sports Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Lake Forest, California. Situated at 28000 Vista Terrace, this sprawling park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. From sports fields and courts for soccer, baseball, basketball, and tennis to playgrounds and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park also features walking and biking trails, as well as beautiful landscaped gardens and scenic views of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking to get active or simply relax and enjoy the outdoors, Lake Forest Sports Park is the perfect destination for a fun day out with family and friends.

Summerly Community Park is a picturesque park located in the City of Lake Elsinore, California. Situated at 18505 Malaga Road, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors and locals alike. The park features lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, enjoy a family outing, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Summerly Community Park offers something for everyone. Come and explore this beautiful park in the heart of Lake Elsinore.

Carlsbad Lagoon Recreation Area is a popular tourist attraction located at 4215 Harrison Street in Carlsbad, California. This stunning waterfront destination offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Visitors can also relax on the sandy beach or enjoy a picnic with beautiful views of the lagoon. The recreation area is perfect for families, friends, and solo travelers looking for a fun and relaxing day by the water. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to unwind, Carlsbad Lagoon Recreation Area is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Lake Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 4994 Lake Boulevard in Oceanside, California. This popular tourist attraction offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic trails, have a picnic by the water, or simply sit and admire the stunning views. With its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Lake Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Playground at Lake 5 is a family-friendly recreational facility located in Santee, California, United States. Situated near the picturesque Lake 5, this playground offers a fun and safe environment for children to play and explore. With a variety of play equipment and structures, including swings, slides, and climbing walls, kids of all ages can enjoy hours of outdoor fun. The playground is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, providing a peaceful and relaxing setting for families to spend quality time together. Whether you're looking for a place to let your kids burn off some energy or simply enjoy a leisurely day in nature, the Playground at Lake 5 is the perfect destination.

Lake Murray Community Park is a picturesque park located in San Diego, California. Situated at 7001 Murray Park Drive, this popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnicking, fishing, hiking, and biking around the scenic Lake Murray. The park also features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for families and nature enthusiasts to spend a relaxing day outdoors. With its beautiful surroundings and recreational opportunities, Lake Murray Community Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Bridgeway Lakes Community Park is a picturesque park located at 3650 Southport Parkway in West Sacramento, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush green spaces, sparkling lakes, and scenic walking paths, Bridgeway Lakes Community Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Bridgeway Lakes Community Park today!

William B. Pond Picnic Facilities is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 5700 Arden Way in Carmichael, California, United States. This institution is a part of the Regional Parks system and offers visitors the opportunity to purchase an annual pass for convenience and savings. Situated along the picturesque American River Parkway, William B. Pond is the ideal location for a variety of events. Whether you're looking to relax by the river, explore the Jedediah Smith bike trail, or enjoy a leisurely picnic with family and friends, this park has something for everyone.

Lake Forest Park is a picturesque and serene destination located at 1821 Francisco Drive in El Dorado Hills, California. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the lake. Whether you're looking to relax with a picnic by the water, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic trails, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area, Lake Forest Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. With its tranquil atmosphere and idyllic setting, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of El Dorado Hills.

Located in Santee, California, the Santee Lakes General Store is your one-stop shop for all your camping and outdoor needs. Whether you're looking for fishing permits, pedal boat rentals, ice beverages, snacks, firewood, propane, or even souvenirs, the General Store has it all. From fishing poles and bait to groceries and toiletries, you can find everything you need to make your stay at Santee Lakes even better. In addition to all the essentials, the General Store also offers services such as camping and cabin reservations, picnic area reservations, and the purchase of Annual Parking Passes and Teen Bass Passes. The friendly staff is always ready to help you find the perfect spot or answer any questions you may have about the park and campground.