Lake Gregory Water Day…read more We made the most of our day at Lake Gregory! We tried the inflatable water park, paddle boarding, and a Duffy boat ride and each one was a different kind of fun! Paddle boarding More challenging than it looks, especially when you're trying to keep your balance, but so much fun once you get the hang of it. Duffy boat Definitely the relaxing part of the day! Cruising around the lake, enjoying the scenery, and taking in the beautiful Mountain View's Inflatable water park: The kids had a blast! Adults be prepared to work for it because the climbing and balancing are no joke! Overall, such a fun family day at Lake Gregory. Definitely recommend trying all three if you're visiting!

This was our third visit on 9/5. We had such a great experience during our first two visits that we…read morechose to return to celebrate our birthday twins. Unfortunately, this visit was incredibly disappointing. We reserved a cabana and arrived as soon as the lake opened, only to find guests setting up pop-up tents directly in front of the cabanas, completely obstructing our view of the lake. During our previous visits, tents were not permitted in this area--which is part of what made paying extra for a cabana worthwhile. I brought the issue to both the cabana hostess and the office. I explained that had we known pop-up tents would be allowed directly in front of us, we would have brought our own instead of spending the additional money on a cabana. The only solutions offered were to move or leave. I wasn't asking for a full refund--just a reasonable discount because the experience we paid for was clearly compromised--but the manager refused. To make matters worse, the wind later picked up and the tents began blowing around, creating the exact type of safety concern this policy should prevent. We've enjoyed this lake in the past, but the manager's poor handling of the situation and complete lack of customer service left us extremely disappointed. If you're considering paying extra for a cabana, I recommend confirming beforehand whether tents will be allowed to set up directly in front of it. Otherwise, the cabana may not be worth the additional cost.

A small little park on the rim drive…read more You are able to picnic and barbecue with a permit. We stopped by to enjoy the magnificent view. It was breathtaking.

Baylis Park is small and just right off highway 18. You must, I repeat you must, everyone must have…read morean adventure pass presented in vehicle to park here. The parking lot is also very small. They have restrooms, picnic tables, and bear proof rubbish cans. There were loads of rocks and naked trees as the leaves had fallen off. It was also quite windy on the day I arrived. I thought it would be nice to snap a few photos of the city with the high elevation. It's also great for kids and also if you have pets. I'm glad I stopped by as it was really nice to soak up some sun (ooh girls just wanna have sun? Lol) and appreciate all the beauty surrounding me. I had my tripod with me as per usual. It's a nice place to have a picnic, stretch your legs, and take a breather! "Change your expectations for appreciations and the world changes instantly!" -Tony Robbins

Wonderful weekend. Seely is nestled in a nice cove next to the Heart rock hiking trail. LA Parks…read moredoes not get enough credit for putting on such an affordable, wonderful weekend for a diverse group of nature lovers. After the second day felt I needed another day! The program staff was fun and patient (Camp Hollywoodland, a 5 star review coming your way soon!), The food was fresh and cooked with care & love, The Rangers led hikes + expeditions + info sessions with humor and wisdom, The campground was clean + well-maintained, And of course mother nature for her everlasting beauty. My family had an amazing time. We returned happy, fufilled, and rested. Thanks to the directors: Sherri Lindsay & Lynette Smith Program Staff: Fauna, Moon, Oasis, Peach & Vanilla Cooking Staff: Justin, Castro, Rozetta Everett, Cristobal Morales, Romero Moseley, Sally Murrieta & Marissa Wichter Park Rangers: Sean Kleckner & Tom Mendibles A+++++ would camp again

Our 4th time here, and probably more fun with kids. Our second trip up since both sons were grown,…read morebeautiful surroundings with cabins that are a bit rustic; 2 bunk beds and 1 single (sleeps 5), heater and electrical outlets. You're advised to never turn off your heater because it gets quite cold at night and after lights out, they won't be out to fix it if you can't get it back on again. There is table tennis, archery sign up, crafts, nature talks, s'mores around a campfire, hikes, etc. that are all optional. Saturday night our Ranger even told "ghost" stories, like the time he was patrolling Griffith Park (where he still works), and spotted a lone woman walking the road near Travel Town around 3 AM. Turning around to see if she was alright and pulling next to her; her face was like porcelain and she appeared to be holding something which she was trying to hide. She responded "I'm okay" then walked off toward an extremely thick growth of brush, disappearing before his eyes. He stated that the whole experience gave him "the creeps" and didn't seem real. But our ranger, who shall remain nameless in my review, was also a great guide and leads all 4 hiking excursions. And if you're up to it, if nothing else, do the hike to Heart Rock. Maybe 2-3 miles round trip, but requiring a lot of up-and-down climbing over rocks and roots on the trail. Heads Up: There are wild animals in the vicinity; and yes, bears and bobcats have been sighted. Owls can also be heard late at night. Storing food in your cabin is highly discouraged. And one more note; none of the cabins have locks on their doors. Also more of a rustic, not romantic getaway. Not much romance with only single and bunk beds provided. With thin plastic mattresses that weren't made for comfort. And you supply your own bedding or sleeping bags; don't make the mistake of forgetting your pillow like I did this time. I had to use one of my wife's extra sheets as a makeshift pillow. Not good! I paid for it with less then 2 hours of sleep. I was in a sleeping bag. The road up to and down from Crestline, Hwy 138, is a bit more treacherous then I remembered as well. Check In is from 10 AM - 12 PM Saturday, and Check Out is at 2 PM Sunday. But for 1 night, it's a very full weekend experience, and at $55.00 per person, which includes 4 meals, everything else is inclusive. That is, everything but water. For some strange reason, all camp drinking fountains have been put out of commission. I'm still scratching my head on that one. Yet throughout the entire day, the general store building provides free coffee, tea, and hot chocolate but you have to pay for bottled water. With the exception of free bottles given out this past Sunday while me and Jackie just happened to be playing a game of ping pong. And there is water at each table during mealtimes. A nice getaway though if you don't mind roughing it for 1 night. Camp Seely is owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles.

We came here on a Saturday and it wasn't very busy. The temperature was roughly 70 degrees, perfect…read morefor a hike. When we arrived, there was limited parking and no restrooms from when I seen so be sure to handle your business before you come. We weren't exactly sure where the trail began so we walked up the steep paved road and took a right at the top of the road and began the hike. This trail is full of incline areas so if you are expecting a nice stroll around the woods, you'll be sadly mistaken. I'd say this hike is closer to medium difficulty but it's a great time and very rewarding once you reach the top. Sadly you only get a "peek a boo" view of the lake due to the trees being in the way but hey that's nature for ya! This trail took a little over an hour for myself and my wife to complete and that's with peaks and taking in the scenery. I highly recommend this trail, the views, fresh air etc. is amazing!

Great short hike, about 2 miles round trip, easy to moderate trail, beautiful trees, serene views,…read morepeaceful, and not busy. Stayed at an Airbnb close by and my kids wanted to explore the outdoors. Found this trail and it was prefect for what we were looking for. My 8 year olds enjoyed the view from the top, saw squirrels and birds, and only got tired towards the end. There is a dirt path and signs posted making it easy to follow. There were lots of trees providing shade and a cool feel. There were a few areas (stumps/down trees/rocks) to sit and rest at and some inclines, but nothing too strenuous or steep. It was very quiet and peaceful, and it felt like we were the only ones out there. Although we ran into 3 couples during our hike, we had the trail pretty much to ourselves. There is limited parking, but we were able to park along the curb and didn't have an issue. Worth checking out if you're in the area.

What a gem this park is, we got done walking around the Village so we decided to take the girls to…read morethe park for a bit before we went to meet up with our other friends to watch the bands play. Wow this park is amazing, it was very windy and foggy but the kids didn't mind. We brought blankets so through them over us lol and walked over. They have swings when you first walk up, but if you walk a bit further they have the playground. They also have a tennis or bad mitten court and basketball courts too. The playground is so nice and clean and they have a cool zip line for the kids to play on, they loved that so much and had a blast going on it lol. It even has a cute little gazebo such a beautiful park. The girls had a blast we would love to come here again. If you have never been to MacKay Park you should if you have little ones it's really beautiful here. Even if you don't it's peaceful and in the mountains and so lovely. The parking lot is pretty big too so plenty for everyone. Have a beautiful day, be kind to everyone :) Aloha

Went to MacKay park last month, I did not take any photos that day, but it was a small park good…read morefor family and children. Upon arriving, parking lot is not as big as you would expect, we squeezed in besides the trash cans to park, however it was really clean, and everyone's vibe is nothing but smiles and nods. They do have bathrooms, on the right hand side near the parking lot are swings, to the left and middle part closer to the parking lot has two pickleball courts, and if you walk past the swings the walkway leads to a view and a children's playground. My fiancée and I came for the dog park, which was literally a walk to the left past the actual parking lot. Spacious with a few trees and limited spots for shade. But enough room for your furry friends to stretch their legs!

Came out from OC as we heard great things about this hike and the hot springs we could get into…read more They do charge $10 per person for parking depending on how many people are in your car. The hike down is beautiful with wide desert views. Just remember: going back up is a workout. Bring plenty of water and be ready for sun. The hot springs themselves are awesome--several warm pools and the cold creek right next to them. It can get busy, but still really relaxing. Overall, a great adventure spot if you're up for a tougher hike. Would definitely go again.

This website is a fraud. The owner doesn't have a website, there is no zip line and no camp ground…read more The owner has neighbors who are using his name. He only accepts Zelle. The hike is two miles down hill before you get to the water. The hike back is uphill and very steep.

This spot was absolutely perfect for a family hike and some fun splashing about in the river and…read moreswimming holes. It is an extremely simple hike, no rough terrain and clearly marked. We had driven from Arizona for some cooler weather and had the hardest time simply finding a good spot for the kids to play and swim without needing to pay a fortune (We dont have to pay to swim in lakes in Arizona which I didn't know was a novelty??) We rented a cabin by Arrowhead lake and found out AFTER we got there that it is a private lake. We were told by locals that a great family lake was Lake Gregory which was about 20 minutes away. We drove to lake Gregory only to be told by park rangers that we cant swim in the lake unless we go to the designated family beach area and pay $10 per person (adults and children included) to use a small crowded beach area. That particular day I gave in and paid so my children could have some fun outside and in the water. I was determined to continue looking... FINALLY, I searched for rivers, streams and hiking nearby to get some peace and adventure and came across this little gem. Maybe we got lucky since it was in the middle of the week, but there were very few people on the trail, not to mention only one other family with kids at the swimming hole that my kids played with. The water was clean and cool, it was not crowded, there was ample shade and sandy beach areas...it was PERFECT. I would highly recommend this area for family use.

Just went the other day, the road was still open to make it just a very short hike to get to the…read morecool creek and bridge area. IT DEFINITELY IS STILL ILLEGAL TO VISIT UNTIL MAY 21st 2021 at least. The website doesn't say so but several signs out here do and there is no reversal of that order anywhere to be found in the internet. Honestly was a cool place that i can't wait to explore more but I'm thankful it's closed because it's too easy too access which enables non nature people to go easily and trash it and disrespect the area, and not responsibly socially distance. If you aren't a local please don't visit this spot Go explore trails and nature area in your home towns and if there isn't enough than get your voice heard in local city council meetings and demand some more.

Jan 7, 2017 If you…read morelove Christmas, Santa Claus and all things winter wonderland, this is a must. We flew from NorCal to on 1/7/17 with 3 adults and my 12 year old nephew, to visit Santa's Village. Though I remember stories about it, I never got to visit them before it had burned down. Until now.... All of us had a blast! The lines had thinned out from December so the longest line we waited in was about 20 min to ride the train. We got to have a private audience with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The elves took us as a family in to meet Santa, just by ourselves. I think the way they do this is really wonderful because it feels very personal and private. Every person on staff is AMAZING! Smiling, energetic, having fun, being extremely helpful, and stellar customer service. They made sure we knew what attractions were open, where to go, etc. The women's bathrooms were kept excellent and clean. We lucked out with no rain. We rode Arrow's Adventure. Ate a lovely meal at Gatherings which is a bit higher end and also quieter, and they were able to accommodate with vegetarian for one of us. We made candy cane reminders at Santa's Workshop. My 12 yr old nephew ice skated for the first time and climbed the Bouldering Room inside rock wall. We got to ride the Polar Express Train. We panned for crystals and gold. We played in the snow, throwing snowball fights - So fun! We shopped a little, played a little, ate a little and left filling that wonderful tired, content feeling when you had the most perfect day. Price Many others complain about the price but I think it was so worth it. This cannot be compared with Disneyland or Great America or Magic Mountain.... it's apples to oranges. What Santa's Village brings is MAGIC. I certainly empathize with those who are challenged with the price and hope you'll save even a few bucks per week to come. This is not a big corporation with unlimited funds; it's a small group of dedicated people, who not only invested millions to restore and re-imagine this place, they also, I can only imagine, gave their the blood, sweat and many tears to bring this dream into reality. The price of a ticket is not just an entry in for the day but an investment in creating something that is bigger and brighter for this world. Look around, the world needs more play, wonderment, curiosity, magic and kindness! You will find all of that at Santa's Village!! I'm looking forward to returning later in 2017 to experience the zip line as well as all of their hiking and biking trails... so grateful and wish I could shake the hands of all those involved for making this happen. Also applaud them for not using animals in their attractions. And for being fully ADA compliant.

We love Sky Park. As locals, it provides us an amazing summer of cover bands (every Friday) and is…read morethe absolute best place on the mountain to go for music. The ambiance is fantastic (don't go to the Village - seriously) with trees all around and they're lit up so beautifully at night. The vibe is always super nice and it's just the best experience. Our kids are older now, so we don't go to the Park for rides as much as we previously did, but it's a must visit if you have little ones. If not, definitely check out Tunes in the Trees and stop at the Reindeer Room before going (needs a reservation)

This hike is definitely moderate in difficulty. Do not expect a walk in the park! If you are…read morewilling to put up with the uneven terrain (with lots of sand and rocks) and potentially getting lost, you will be rewarded with very scenic 360-degree views. The hike takes you through a granite boulder field to a small plateau, then through an intimidating boulder-pile summit, where you finally reach The Pinnacles peak. Total elevation gained is about 1,000 feet and it's about 4 miles roundtrip. Expect to take about 2-3 hours. It probably would have taken less time, but I stayed for a good half hour at the peak to soak in all the goodness. The official start of the trailhead actually begins right next to a shooting range and can be found easily by typing in "Pinnacles Trail" on Google Maps. Parking is virtually non-existent there. For plentiful parking, search for "The Pinnacles Trail Parking" on Google Maps. This dirt lot is not too far away and you can actually begin the hike there too, which I did. Make sure you have a parking pass displayed since you're in the San Bernardino National Forest. There's little to no shade for most of this hike, so plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen are highly recommended. Trekking poles will help with navigating through the uneven and steep terrain, but make sure to attach them to your pack when crawling up boulders. You'll need both hands to climb. Of course, wear a good pair of hiking shoes to stay sure-footed. There are a lot of splits and side trails that threw me off the official path. I counted about 5 trail markers throughout this hike, not nearly good enough to solely rely on. Luckily, my phone had plenty of battery and I was able to rely on its GPS to guide me on the trail path listed in Google Maps. Almost all modern phones have built-in GPS, but I recommend downloading a good GPS hiking app that supports offline maps and turning on airplane mode to conserve battery. I saw less than 10 other hikers from start to finish, so you definitely don't want to get lost here.

Updated review: Second attempt after a year. Made it to the top this time but trail was still…read moresomewhat confusing in some areas. Last stretch to the top requires rock scrambling. GPS of the AllTrails route was required to give a general direction. Overall, plenty of nice views including Silverwood Lake from a distance. Short video of the hike: https://youtu.be/LKLBBaKxJ7U