18 Splash-Worthy Swimming Lakes Near LA for the Ultimate Family Day Trip!
- Angela Cantoni
- Jun 18
- 7 min read
Whether you’re craving a refreshing swim under pine trees, a splash pad adventure, or just a lazy day floating in calm, freshwater bliss—this ultimate guide has you covered. We've rounded up 18 swimming lakes within a 1–3 hour drive from LA, each with something special for families.
LA's Best Family-Friendly Swimming Lakes (All Within 3 Hours!)
Let’s kick things off with the lakes closest to LA, then expand out to weekend-worthy escapes. Each listing includes driving distance, cost, restrooms, parking, and family-focused details.
1. Malibu Creek Rock Pool – Agoura Hills
This scenic swimming hole in Malibu Creek State Park is a true adventure for outdoorsy families. Reached via a moderately challenging 3-mile hike, the path winds through canyons and groves until you reach a calm, rock-enclosed pool beneath sycamore trees. It’s quiet, shady, and offers a rare freshwater dip after a good hike. Parking costs $12 per car. Bring a picnic, plenty of water, and be prepared to carry everything in and out.
Pro Tip: Best for older kids or strong walkers. Wear hiking shoes and bring wipes—there are no bathrooms at the pool.
2. Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area – Irwindale
Looking for a low-effort, high-reward lake day? Santa Fe Dam delivers with a five-acre swim beach, shallow water, and a separate splash pad perfect for toddlers. Families can drive right in and park close to the water for $12 per vehicle. The park is well-kept with restrooms and shaded picnic areas nearby. Lifeguards are on duty during summer weekends, making this a great “first lake” for young kids.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to grab a shady picnic table—this place fills up fast on hot days!
3. Castaic Lake – Santa Clarita
Castaic Lake offers a wide swim beach on the Lower Lake, which is perfect for families. From Memorial Day to Father’s Day, it’s open on weekends, and daily after June 15, with lifeguards watching designated swim zones. The brand-new Cali Splash Park adds even more fun for older kids. Parking is $12 per vehicle, and restrooms and changing facilities are available nearby.
Pro Tip: Don’t confuse the Lower and Upper Lakes—only the Lower Lake allows swimming. Use signs and staff to make sure you’re in the right spot!
4. Lake Piru – Ventura County
A bit off the beaten path, Lake Piru is a scenic reservoir that’s peaceful and spacious. Families can swim at Juan Fernandez Beach, one of Lake Piru's designated swimming areas, which is accessible by car and features nearby on-site restrooms. The water is calm in the mornings, though afternoon winds can make swimming trickier, especially for little ones. Parking is $14 during peak season (April–Sept) and $10 in off-season.
Pro Tip: Children under 13 are required to wear life jackets, even in shallow areas—so pack your own or rent on-site.
5. Pyramid Lake – Castaic
Just north of LA, Pyramid Lake is a picturesque escape with Vaquero Beach as the primary swimming area. It offers a mellow beach vibe with free parking at Vista del Lago, clean restrooms, and lots of shady spots for relaxing. There’s no entrance fee, making it one of the more budget-friendly options. The water is clear and perfect for floating and paddleboarding.
Pro Tip: Bring goggles and water shoes—the lake has rocky spots that are tough on bare feet.
6. Silverwood Lake – San Bernardino Mountains
Silverwood Lake has that “mountain getaway” feel without the long drive. Families love the lifeguarded swim beach, the nearby restrooms, and the easy on-site parking, which costs $10 weekdays and $20 on weekends and holidays. There are shaded picnic tables and camping nearby if you want to make a weekend of it.
Pro Tip: Check for water quality advisories before you go—algae blooms happen here during hot stretches.
7. Lake Gregory – Crestline
If your kids are all about activity, Lake Gregory is the place. The sandy swim beach is right next to a floating water park, big slides (48” height minimum), and paddleboat rentals. Parking is $10, and the beach costs $15 per person (kids 3 and under are free). Bathrooms and changing areas are conveniently located near the action.
Pro Tip: Budget for the extras—this lake is super fun but can get pricey with multiple kids. Buy online tickets in advance to save time.
8. Lake Elsinore – Riverside County (Elm Grove Beach)
Lake Elsinore is laid-back and local, with a small sandy beach, free parking, and clean restrooms on-site. Elm Grove Beach offers shade structures, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and even fire pits. The shallow entry makes it ideal for toddlers and younger kids. It’s a great spot for families who want something low-key and accessible.
Pro Tip: Water quality can vary—check the city’s updates online before planning your swim.
9. Lake Perris – Moreno Valley
A longtime favorite in the Inland Empire, Lake Perris has two swim beaches—Moreno and Perris—with soft sand, lifeguards in summer, and clean bathrooms nearby. Parking is $10 on weekdays and $20 on weekends/holidays, with plenty of space to set up a lakeside picnic. Paddleboard and kayak rentals add fun for older kids.
Pro Tip: Go midweek if you can—weekends get wild, and quieter mornings make for a more relaxed family outing.
10. Big Bear Lake – San Bernardino Mountains
Big Bear is a full-blown mountain escape with boating, paddleboarding, and a lakeside village to explore. Swim Beach near Meadow Park is the only area with lifeguards, but several shoreline spots are great for cautious supervised swims. Restrooms and paid parking are available near major beach areas, and fees vary depending on location.
Pro Tip: Even in summer, the lake water is chilly. Bring extra towels and a warm hoodie for post-swim snuggles.
11. Jackson Lake – Wrightwood
Jackson Lake is a hidden gem in the San Gabriel Mountains, perfect for families looking for a quiet, no-frills nature day. It’s a small lake with free access and roadside parking, though spaces are limited. There are porta-potties on-site, but no full restrooms. The shallow water and no-motorboat rule make it ideal for younger kids and beginners learning to paddle or fish.
Pro Tip: Bring everything you’ll need—there are no rentals or food services here. Early mornings offer the calmest water and best spots.
12. Hansen Dam Recreation Area – Pacoima
This urban oasis is a great spur-of-the-moment choice for valley families. Hansen Dam has a large manmade swimming lake and splash zone, with lifeguards in summer and plenty of grassy areas for picnicking. Parking is free, and there are restrooms and changing facilities available. It’s stroller-friendly and a great alternative to a full-on water park.
Pro Tip: The water is filtered but still natural—bring swim shoes and floaties for younger kiddos.
13. Lake Hemet – San Jacinto Mountains
Lake Hemet is a gorgeous mountain lake surrounded by pines and peaceful views. There’s a designated swim area with a sandy beach, and restrooms are located near the swim zones. Parking costs $10 per car, and day-use areas include picnic tables and boat rentals. It's great for families looking to relax away from the hustle, with cabins and tent camping if you want to stay overnight.
Pro Tip: This is a leashed dog-friendly lake—so bring your pup along for a real family escape!
14. South Lake Gregory – Crestline (Quiet Side)
The lesser-known south end of Lake Gregory is ideal for families wanting the mountain lake experience without the buzz of the water park. It’s free to access, with limited roadside parking, and you’ll find restrooms a short walk away at the main park entrance. The beach here is quieter, more natural, and good for low-key swimming and picnicking.
Pro Tip: There are no slides or attractions here, which makes it perfect for toddlers or those who prefer calm over chaos.
15. Launch Pointe Beach – Lake Elsinore
Part of the Launch Pointe Recreation and RV Park, this lakeside swim area is a polished, well-maintained option. It includes on-site bathrooms, picnic areas, and convenient parking, though a parking fee is required. You can also rent paddleboards or grab lunch from nearby food stands, making it a great spot for a full day.
Pro Tip: Stay late for one of their summer events like floating movies or lakeside games—it turns into a party by sunset!
16. Little Arrowhead (via Private Rentals) – Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead is a private lake, but if you book the right vacation rental or resort, you’ll get access to gorgeous swim beaches and docks. Each spot varies, but most offer private bathrooms, reserved parking, and beach access included in the cost of the stay. This is a luxurious and quieter option for families who want a weekend getaway in the mountains.
Pro Tip: Look for rentals that specifically say “lake access” or “dock access” in the listing—and confirm swimming rules with the host.
17. Bonelli Park (Puddingstone Lake) – San Dimas
Bonelli Park is a solid all-in-one lake day option for families. It has a large swim beach, boat rentals, splash pad nearby, and plenty of shady picnic areas. Bathrooms are clean and regularly maintained, and parking costs $12 per vehicle. It's easy to access and very stroller-friendly, making it a top pick for mixed-age families.
Pro Tip: Grab a spot early under the trees—it gets hot by noon and shaded space goes fast.
Cedar Creek Falls – Ramona
Cedar Creek Falls is a stunning waterfall-fed swimming hole reached via a moderately strenuous 5-mile round-trip hike in the hills near Ramona. You’ll need a $10 permit, and parking is limited to a small lot or nearby street spots. While the payoff is a gorgeous, clear pool at the base of a dramatic cliff, note that there are no restrooms, and the exposed trail can get extremely hot—especially on the uphill return. Best for families with adventurous older kids or teens who can handle the hike.
Pro Tip: Start early to avoid the heat, and bring more water than you think you’ll need—this one’s not stroller-friendly, but totally worth it for active, nature-loving families.
Family Lake Day Packing List
Swim Gear:
Swimsuits
Towels (bring extras!)
Swim shoes or water sandals
Floaties/inflatables
Goggles/snorkels
Life jackets (especially for kids under 13)
Sun Protection:
Reef-safe sunscreen
Sun hats
Sunglasses
Umbrella or canopy
Food & Drink:
Cooler with ice packs
Water bottles (refillable)
Sandwiches/snacks
Fresh fruit
Paper plates & utensils
Trash bags
Comfort & Safety:
Picnic blanket or folding chairs
Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
First aid kit
Ziplock bags for wet clothes
Dry bags for electronics
Bug spray
Extras (especially for littles):
Change of clothes
Sand toys
Books or coloring activities
Portable speaker
Portable potty (for long hikes or rugged spots)
🌞 Conclusion
With 18 fabulous swimming lakes within a day or weekend’s reach of LA, your family summer just got a lot more exciting! Whether you're craving a leisurely float, a splash-packed adventure, or a peaceful mountainside soak—there's a lake that’s perfect for your family’s mood. Grab the sunscreen, plan your snacks, and let the lake-lovin’ memories begin!
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