TOP 30 Best Picnic areas with lake views in California

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.

Peppertree Group Area at Vasona County Park is a picturesque park located on Pepper Tree Lane in Los Gatos, California. It offers a tranquil setting for picnics, gatherings, and outdoor activities. The park features spacious grassy areas, shaded picnic tables, and scenic views of the surrounding nature. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, birdwatching, or simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere. With its convenient location and well-maintained facilities, Peppertree Group Area is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor enjoyment in the heart of Vasona County Park.

Stow Lake, located in San Francisco, California, United States, is the largest body of water in Golden Gate Park. Originally known as Blue Heron Lake, it was created in 1893 for leisure boating, horse-drawn carriages, and park irrigation. Visitors can enjoy strolling, picnicking, and renting boats at the boathouse. The 12-acre lake surrounds Strawberry Hill Island, with a trail that passes by Huntington Falls, the Golden Gate Pavilion, and the Stone Bridge. With trails that follow the shoreline and climb to the hill's summit, Strawberry Hill offers stunning views of the city. The Blue Heron Boathouse on the north shore offers pedal boats, row boats, and a snack bar for visitors to enjoy.

The South Lake Tahoe-El Dorado Recreation Area is a beautiful park located in South Lake Tahoe, California, United States. This sprawling outdoor space offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and more. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Tahoe, this park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to read a book or a place to explore the great outdoors, the South Lake Tahoe-El Dorado Recreation Area has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the beauty of this incredible park for yourself.

Crystal Lake Trailhead is a popular tourist attraction located on Lk George Road in Mammoth Lakes, California. This beautiful park offers stunning views of Crystal Lake and the surrounding mountains, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and photography opportunities at this serene and picturesque location. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic landscapes, Crystal Lake Trailhead is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

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.

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.

Lake Chabot Regional Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 17600 Lake Chabot Road in Castro Valley, California. The park is open daily from 5am to 10pm, with varying gate hours throughout the year. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for buses, dogs, fishing access, boating, and other activities. The 315-acre Lake Chabot was built in the 1870s as a water source for the East Bay and is now open for recreational use. The park offers a variety of amenities including fishing piers, wheelchair accessible facilities, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a marina with boat rentals. Visitors can also enjoy guided lake tours, fishing derbies, and the Lake Chabot Marina Cafe.

Stafford Lake Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational area located at 3549 Novato Boulevard in Novato, California. This expansive park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing. The park features stunning views of Stafford Lake, as well as lush green meadows and shaded oak groves. With its peaceful atmosphere and numerous amenities, Stafford Lake Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.

Mountain Lake Park, located at 98 Funston Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a peaceful and beautiful tourist attraction. It is a refuge where visitors can spot native plants and wildlife, including birds, turtles, and frogs. The park features restrooms, picnic tables, a playground, and a trail connection. Mountain Lake is a unique gem in San Francisco, as it is one of the city's last natural lakes. Visitors can enjoy a quiet outdoor experience and learn about the natural history of the area. The park is a great place for families to spend time together, with a playground and restrooms nearby. The park's restrooms have paved pathway access, making it accessible to all visitors.

Dog Park | Pine Lake Park is a charming and popular tourist attraction located at 100 Vale Avenue in San Francisco, California, United States. This park is a haven for dogs and their owners, offering a spacious and well-maintained area for furry friends to run and play off-leash. With beautiful views of Pine Lake and surrounding greenery, this park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a fun day out with your four-legged companion. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, walking trails, and even a dog washing station. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Dog Park | Pine Lake Park is a must-visit destination for dog lovers in the San Francisco area.

Twin Lakes Campground is a picturesque camping facility located in the stunning eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near Mammoth Lakes, California. Situated at an elevation of 8,600 feet, this campground offers lakeside camping with breathtaking views and a wide range of outdoor activities. The campground is split into two sections on either side of Twin Lakes, with campsites featuring picnic tables, campfire rings, flush toilets, and drinking water. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and waterfall viewing right from their campsite. The area is teeming with wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and various bird species. The nearby Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort offers year-round recreation, and the John Muir Wilderness provides ample opportunities for hiking and horseback riding.

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.

Dixon Lake Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Escondido, California. This serene campground offers a variety of lodging options, from tent sites to RV hookups, making it the perfect destination for both nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning lake views, Dixon Lake Campground provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Guests can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and picnicking in the beautiful park grounds. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Dixon Lake Campground is the ideal destination for a memorable outdoor experience.

Atascadero Lake Park is a picturesque park located at 9305 Pismo Avenue in Atascadero, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a serene setting for outdoor activities such as picnicking, fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful lake, lush greenery, and scenic views of the surrounding hills. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the great outdoors, Atascadero Lake Park is a must-visit destination in the heart of California.

Dixon Lake is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Escondido, California, United States. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, the lake offers a peaceful escape for visitors looking to relax and unwind. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, Dixon Lake has something for everyone. With a variety of recreational activities and amenities available, this institution is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day outdoors.

Lopez Lake Recreation Area is a beautiful park located at 6800 Lopez Drive in Arroyo Grande, California, United States. This scenic destination offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills while exploring the park's many trails and recreational facilities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventurous outdoor experience, Lopez Lake Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Heritage Lake Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located on Heritage Lake Drive in Menifee, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a serene setting for visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax by the tranquil lake. With lush greenery, walking paths, and stunning views, Heritage Lake Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Heritage Lake Park is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Big Blue View Bar is a charming waterfront restaurant located at 5145 West Lake Boulevard in Homewood, California. With stunning views of Lake Tahoe, this cozy establishment offers a diverse menu of delicious food and refreshing drinks. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends or simply relax with a cocktail and take in the picturesque surroundings, Big Blue View Bar is the perfect spot. Come and experience a taste of California cuisine in a laid-back and inviting atmosphere.

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!

Mountain View Park is a scenic and tranquil park located at 24061 Dylan Avenue in Lake Forest, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, making it the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities. With its well-maintained walking paths, playgrounds, and open spaces, Mountain View Park is a great destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and enjoy the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem in the heart of California.

Lake Morena County Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located in Campo, California, United States. Situated at 2550 Lake Morena Drive, this park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With its serene lake, lush greenery, and peaceful atmosphere, Lake Morena County Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature.

Anderson Lake County Park is a picturesque outdoor destination located in Morgan Hill, California. Situated at 19245 Malaguerra Avenue, this park offers stunning views of Anderson Lake and the surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, and picnicking. The park is a popular tourist attraction and a favorite spot for locals to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to explore nature, have a family outing, or simply enjoy the fresh air, Anderson Lake County Park is the perfect place to visit.

Shoreline Lake Boathouse is a charming tourist attraction located at 3160 North Shoreline Boulevard in Mountain View, California. Situated on the picturesque shoreline of the lake, this boathouse offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding nature while exploring the calm waters of the lake. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or an adventurous outing with friends and family, Shoreline Lake Boathouse is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

San Pablo Reservoir Oaks Picnic Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 7301 San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante, California, United States. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, picnicking, kayaking, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding nature while engaging in these activities. The park has recently reopened on February 2, 2024, and will be closing on November 10, 2024, for the rest of the season. Boat rental availability is dependent on weather conditions, and boat inspections cannot be conducted under wet conditions. To ensure the best results on personal boats, they must be banded.

Lopez Lake is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located on Lopez Drive in Arroyo Grande, California, United States. This beautiful destination offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. The park's tranquil surroundings and stunning views make it the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. With its convenient location and abundance of recreational opportunities, Lopez Lake is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Reseda Park Lake is a beautiful oasis located in Los Angeles, California, United States. This serene park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature, with its tranquil lake and lush green surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, have a picnic on the grassy banks, or even try their hand at fishing. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, making it a great destination for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts alike. Come and unwind at Reseda Park Lake, where peace and tranquility await.

June Lake Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of June Lake, California. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, this campground offers a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a variety of lodging options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins, visitors can experience the great outdoors in comfort and style. The campground also features amenities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing spots, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of June Lake Campground, where adventure awaits at every turn.

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.

College View Park is a charming and picturesque park located on College View Avenue in Moorpark, California. This serene and well-maintained park is a popular tourist attraction, offering lush green spaces, walking paths, and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day out in nature, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the park. With its convenient location and peaceful atmosphere, College View Park is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.