Best lakes around Inglewood offer diverse recreational opportunities within and very close to the city. Inglewood, located in Los Angeles County, provides access to various natural and man-made water bodies. These areas serve as important ecological sites and popular spots for outdoor activities. The region features a mix of urban parks with lakes and significant natural wetlands.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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The wetlands reserve on the far side of the marina ditch is a hotbed of conservation efforts, with more than 100,000 volunteers helping to clean trash, remove invasive plants and restore native plants over the years. It's a marvel of perseverance and the impacts we humans can have on the earth — both positive and negative. More than 260 bird species have been seen in the restored area, though, so it looks like the "positive" effects are winning.
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Ballona Wetlands, one of the last major marshes in Los Angeles County. Sadly, many wetlands in the area have been filled for urban development. The Ballona Freshwater Marsh can be observed from a 0.75-mile walking path along Jefferson and Lincoln Boulevards during daylight hours.
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With narrow paths, beautiful vistas, ponds covered in lily pads and a picture postcard view towards Downtown with the mountains rising behind, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is the perfect place to escape the trouble of the big city. It is also known als L. A.s "Central Park" with nice hiking trails and large enough for a longer run.
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With narrow paths, beautiful vistas, ponds covered in lily pads and a picture postcard view towards Downtown with the mountains rising behind, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is the perfect place to escape the trouble of the big city. It is also known als L. A.s "Central Park" with nice hiking trails and large enough for a longer hike or several smaller walks.
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Most of today's Marina del Rey and Venice used to be a large natural wetland. Today the originally large lagoon it essentially narrowed down to a wide canal and a small network of manmade drainage channels. The original channels in Venice have mostly been filled with houses meanwhile.
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Nice little harbor. Parking space available.
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Between the Marina and the beach is the remaining arm of the original natural laguna. The pedestrian bridge is a good viewpoint, and connection from the creekside trail to the beach.
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The Inglewood area offers a diverse range of water bodies, from the newly developed, sustainable Inglewood's Lake Park at Hollywood Park with its waterfall and wetlands, to the natural Ballona Lagoon — Marina Del Rey, and the significant ecological site of Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. You can also find fishing lakes within larger recreational areas like Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area and Alondra Community Regional Park.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent hiking and walking opportunities. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area features over five to seven miles of trails, including the Burke Roche Trail and the Rim Trail, with panoramic views. The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve has a 0.75-mile walking path for observing wildlife. Alondra Community Regional Park also has a nature trail winding around its lake. For more extensive routes, you can explore various gravel biking and cycling guides that pass near these areas.
Many lakes in the area are family-friendly. Inglewood's Lake Park at Hollywood Park offers tranquil parkland and walkways. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is ideal with playgrounds, picnic sites, and easy trails. Alondra Community Regional Park also boasts a large playground, picnic areas, and extensive sports facilities alongside its lake. The Ballona Lagoon — Marina Del Rey and Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve are also great for family walks and wildlife observation.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at some of the local lakes. The fishing lake at Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is regularly stocked with trout or catfish depending on the season. Alondra Community Regional Park also features a large lake that is a popular spot for fishing, stocked with catfish, trout, and bass.
The lakes and wetlands around Inglewood are rich in wildlife. Inglewood's Lake Park attracts ducks, gulls, and various visiting birds. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is home to diverse bird species like mallard ducks, ruddy ducks, western grebes, snowy egrets, and American coots, as well as gray fox, raccoons, and opossums. The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve is particularly notable, hosting more than 260 bird species. Alondra Community Regional Park's nature trail also offers opportunities to observe various bird species like egrets, herons, and ducks.
Absolutely. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area provides breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains. It also features a lotus pond, a small Japanese garden, and a waterfall. Inglewood's Lake Park at Hollywood Park boasts a spectacular six-acre lake with a 12-foot waterfall and twin cataracts. The Ballona Lagoon — Marina Del Rey offers a pedestrian bridge with good viewpoints of the natural lagoon.
Many of the lakes are well-integrated into the urban fabric and are generally accessible. Inglewood's Lake Park is located just south of SoFi Stadium, making it easily reachable. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area and Alondra Community Regional Park are large public parks with parking facilities. Public transport options vary by location, but the region's parks are typically served by local bus routes. It's always recommended to check specific routes and schedules for your chosen destination.
The lakes around Inglewood can be enjoyed year-round due to Southern California's mild climate. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking. Winter can be a good time for birdwatching, especially at the wetlands. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, making water-based activities or early morning/late afternoon visits more comfortable.
Yes, the Inglewood area offers several cycling opportunities that pass by or near the lakes. You can find various road cycling routes and general cycling routes that explore the region, including paths like the Ballona Creek Bike Path which can lead to areas near the Ballona Lagoon and Wetlands.
The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve is one of the last major marshes in Los Angeles County. It's a critical habitat for over 260 bird species and a testament to significant conservation efforts. Visitors can observe this vibrant ecosystem from a 0.75-mile walking path, witnessing the positive impacts of restoration work on native plants and wildlife.
At Alondra Community Regional Park, visitors have the option to rent boats or bring their own to enjoy the large lake. This provides a great way to experience the water and potentially get closer to the bird species that inhabit the area.
Yes, parks featuring lakes in the Inglewood area are well-equipped with amenities. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area offers numerous picnic sites, barbecue pits, and playgrounds. Alondra Community Regional Park also provides extensive picnic areas with barbecue pits and a large playground, making them ideal for a full day out.


Still not found your perfect lake around Inglewood? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.