The 30 Best Picnicking areas in California

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.

Marin Headlands is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in Sausalito, California, United States. This stunning natural preserve offers visitors a chance to explore rugged coastal cliffs, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and diverse wildlife habitats. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this beautiful and serene setting. With its proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco, Marin Headlands is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bayview Park, located at 1001 Le Conte Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful and diverse natural area that attracts tourists and locals alike. The park boasts a wide variety of plant and animal species, including stunning wildflower displays, coastal scrub, eucalyptus and oak groves, and the largest population of Islais cherry trees in the city. Visitors can expect to encounter western fence lizards, California alligator lizards, non-poisonous snakes, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, and woodpeckers during their visit. The primary trail at Bayview Park is a paved road that loops through the park, offering stunning views and glimpses of the park's rich history. Remnants of stairs and retaining walls built by the Works Progress Administration during the Depression can still be seen along the roadway. The park's cultural history dates back to the early 1900s when it was almost lost to development, but was saved and officially declared a park.

Lone Tree Point is a serene park located at 413 San Pablo Avenue in Rodeo, California. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the surrounding area and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the scenery, Lone Tree Point is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. With its convenient location and tranquil setting, this park is a hidden gem in the bustling city of Rodeo.

Big Canyon Park is a picturesque park located at 3190 Brittan Avenue in San Carlos, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views of the canyon, Big Canyon Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or a peaceful picnic, this park has something for everyone. So come and explore the beauty of Big Canyon Park and experience the natural wonders of California.

San Roque Park is a beautiful recreational area located in the charming city of Santa Barbara, California, United States. This park offers a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, walking, jogging, and playing sports. With lush greenery, shady trees, and well-maintained walking paths, San Roque Park is the perfect spot for individuals and families to relax and unwind in nature. Additionally, the park features playgrounds for children, making it a great destination for families with kids. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely afternoon or get some exercise in the fresh air, San Roque Park is a wonderful destination for all ages.

Zelzah Park is a stunning outdoor oasis located at 11690 Zelzah Avenue in Los Angeles, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and walking paths, Zelzah Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak up the natural beauty, Zelzah Park has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles!

Summit Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 26125 McBean Parkway in Santa Clarita, California. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. With well-maintained walking paths, picnic areas, and plenty of green space to relax in, Summit Park is the perfect spot for a day out in nature. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery, Summit Park is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

GreenBelt Park is a serene and lush oasis nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, California. This beautiful park spans across 1354-1398 East L Street and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the winding pathways, picnicking on the well-manicured lawns, or simply relaxing in the shade of the towering trees. With its vibrant greenery and tranquil atmosphere, GreenBelt Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature in the midst of the urban landscape.

Taylor Ranch Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 737 North Montebello Boulevard in Montebello, California, United States. This beautiful green space offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with well-maintained walking paths, lush grassy areas, and shady trees perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. The park also features playgrounds for children, sports fields for active recreation, and plenty of open space for outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or get some exercise, Taylor Ranch Park is the perfect destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Day Creek Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 12350 Banyan Street in Rancho Cucamonga, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The park is well-maintained and provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, get some exercise, or have a fun day out with the family, Day Creek Park is the perfect destination for all ages. Visit today and experience the beauty and tranquility of this lovely park in the heart of Rancho Cucamonga.

Vernola Family Park is a beautiful and spacious park located at 5211 Wineville Avenue in Jurupa Valley, California, United States. This family-friendly park offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From playgrounds and sports fields to picnic areas and walking trails, Vernola Family Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with loved ones. The park is well-maintained and provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, play a game of basketball, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Vernola Family Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Parmenter Park is a charming recreational space located in Norco, California, United States. This park offers a peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, walking, and playing sports. With its lush greenery, playgrounds, and picnic areas, Parmenter Park is the perfect spot for families and friends to gather and unwind. Whether you want to relax in nature or engage in some physical activity, this park provides a welcoming and serene atmosphere for all. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Parmenter Park in Norco, California.

Cutting Park is a beautiful park located at 250 Ivy Crest Drive in San Jacinto, California, United States. This serene park is the perfect place to relax and unwind, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful ambiance. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities in this well-maintained park. Whether you're looking to spend quality time with family, have a peaceful solo retreat, or enjoy a fun day out with friends, Cutting Park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come and experience the beauty of nature at Cutting Park.

El Dorado Ranch Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 37254 Oak Glen Road in Yucaipa, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Southern California. With sprawling green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas, El Dorado Ranch Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, this park has something for everyone. Come visit El Dorado Ranch Park and experience the beauty of nature in the heart of Yucaipa.

Upper Bidwell Park is a stunning natural oasis nestled in the heart of Chico, California. Spanning over 1,900 acres, this expansive park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and horseback riding. The park boasts scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With its serene atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Upper Bidwell Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors.

Lake Solano County Park is a beautiful campground and park located in Winters, California. Situated at 8685 Pleasants Valley Road, this serene destination offers a variety of lodging options for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape, this park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, rent a cabin, or simply enjoy a day of hiking and picnicking, Lake Solano County Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and natural beauty of this hidden gem in Northern California.

Holbrook Palmer Park is a beautiful outdoor oasis located at 150 Watkins Avenue in Atherton, California. This charming park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding pathways, and serene ponds. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, walking, jogging, and birdwatching. The park also features a playground for children, tennis courts, and a historic mansion that can be rented for special events. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a scenic spot for a social gathering, Holbrook Palmer Park is the perfect destination.

Briones Regional Park is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 2537 Reliez Valley Road in Martinez, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding on its scenic trails. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities in this beautiful wilderness surrounded by central Contra Costa County towns. The park spans 6,255 acres and is home to a diverse range of animals and birds, including black-tailed deer, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and more. Park District naturalists often lead walks to explore the park's natural and historic features. The park also features group camping areas that can be reserved in advance.

Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline is a 748-acre park located in Oakland, California, next to the bustling Oakland International Airport. The park, leased from the Port of Oakland, protects a once extensive marshland at San Leandro Bay. The park features various amenities such as trails, picnic areas, fishing piers, and a boardwalk out to the Arrowhead Marsh. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Grove, completed in 1993, is a serene spot with trees surrounding a grassy glade and a brick wall inscribed with donors' names. The park is a popular tourist attraction with different operating hours depending on the season. Dogs are allowed in the park but must be on a leash and are not permitted in the marsh areas. The park also offers wheelchair access and various facilities for visitors, including the Shoreline Center which is currently closed for construction.

Lexington Reservoir County Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 17770 Alma Bridge Road in Los Gatos, California, United States. This stunning park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its serene reservoir and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching in this tranquil setting. The park also features scenic walking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a fun outdoor adventure, Lexington Reservoir County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Los Gatos Creek County Park is a beautiful park located at 1250 Dell Avenue in Campbell, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and the tranquil waters of Los Gatos Creek. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in this scenic park. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, Los Gatos Creek County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve is a park and tourist attraction located at 5175 Somersville Road in Antioch, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities including hiking, picnicking, and nature study. Visitors can explore the historic coal mining district, learn about the area's mining history, and participate in guided tours such as the Black Diamond Mining History Tour, Hazel Atlas Mine Tour, and Coal Mine Experience Tour. The Greathouse Visitor Center provides exhibits, photographs, and artifacts related to the park's coal and sand mining eras. The center is wheelchair accessible, with ADA-accessible restrooms and water fountains available in the upper parking lot. The park also features a historic cemetery, Rose Hill Cemetery, where former residents of the coal mining communities are buried.

Morgan Territory Regional Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 9401 Morgan Territory Road in Livermore, California, United States. The preserve is open between 5am and 10pm, with varying gate hours throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and camping within the 5,323 acres of sandstone hills and valleys. The park boasts over 90 species of wildflowers, diverse wildlife including deer and mountain lions, and expansive views of Mount Diablo, Mount St. Helena, and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The park's trails are named to honor the Native American First People who once lived in the area, as well as natural features and the park's ranching history. Morgan Territory is located within the traditional homeland of the Volvon Native American nation, who resisted Spanish missionization in the 18th century. The park is named after Jeremiah Morgan, a pioneer who settled in the area in the 19th century. Visitors can make reservations for the backpack campsite by calling 1-888-EBPARKS.

Ed R. Levin County Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Milpitas, California. Covering over 1,500 acres, this park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and mountain biking on the scenic trails to picnicking by the peaceful lake, there is something for everyone to appreciate at this beautiful park. With its lush greenery, stunning views, and abundant wildlife, Ed R. Levin County Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Sunol Regional Wilderness, located at 1895 Geary Road in Sunol, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction open year-round for visitors to enjoy. The park offers a variety of activities such as camping, picnicking, hiking, and backpacking in its 6,859-acre wilderness area. The park is also home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park's unique features, including sandstone outcrops with fossils, massive basalt outcrops for rock climbing, and a scenic gorge along Alameda Creek. The park also offers opportunities for bird watching, with a variety of bird species commonly sighted along the creek.

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park is a stunning natural oasis nestled at 28373 Alicia Parkway in Aliso Viejo, California, United States. This expansive park offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the wilderness and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. With its lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views, Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and experience the tranquility of this picturesque park.

San Bernardino County Regional Parks is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 777 East Rialto Avenue in San Bernardino, California. This expansive park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, picnicking, fishing, and camping. With stunning natural landscapes and well-maintained facilities, San Bernardino County Regional Parks is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Admiral Baker Park, located at 2400 Admiral Baker Road in San Diego, California, is a beautiful park nestled within the US Navy base. This expansive park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including golfing, hiking, picnicking, and more. The park features lush greenery, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities, making it the perfect spot for a day of relaxation and fun. Whether you're looking to tee off on the golf course or take a leisurely stroll through the park, Admiral Baker Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Black Mountain Summit is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located at 14565 Black Mountain Road in San Diego, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area from the summit, making it a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist exploring the area, Black Mountain Summit is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking natural beauty and tranquility.