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Best of California

Picnics

A blanket spread out on the grass is the only way to spend the afternoon. It is time to step away from the desk and sit outside.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bette Davis Picnic Area image 1
Bette Davis Picnic Area image 2
Bette Davis Picnic Area image 3
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Spacious green areas with plenty of shade and picnic tables make it ideal for picnics. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere features wildlife like birds and squirrels. Nearby horses training add a unique touch, while restrooms are easily accessible for convenience.

A vast area offers plenty of shaded green space and loads of picnic tables and BBQ areas. Restrooms are easily accessible, and the space is usually quiet with room for dogs to run around.

People are saying

"It's a great dog friendly space with lots of room to run."

"It's a great place for a picnic with plenty of shaded green space."

"I found plenty of street parking available."

Good to know

1

The park is dog friendly and great for picnics.

2

There is ample street parking available near the picnic area.

3

Restrooms are easily accessible at the picnic area.

02
Fuller Park image 1
City park

Large open spaces with shade trees and picnic tables make it perfect for family gatherings and kids' celebrations. Massive playground and paved walking paths add fun and calm. Historic homes nearby add simple, beautiful charm to the park.

Many shade trees and picnic tables create a comfortable spot for picnics. Several areas accommodate large groups and kids' celebrations.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a massive playground for the kids."

"The bathrooms here are clean and spacious."

"It's a great space for walking your dog."

Good to know

1

There is no playground at Fuller Park, which may disappoint families with young children.

2

Reservations are required in advance for party and picnic areas.

3

Street parking is available along the perimeter of the park.

03
Highland Camrose Park image 1

Park offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with a semi-private setting behind gates and a large stone wall. Spacious picnic areas feature lots of picnic tables among lush gardens and shady spots. Presence of security adds a strong sense of safety.

Spacious picnic areas with lots of picnic tables sit among gorgeous gardens and trees. Shady spots and water fountains make it comfortable even in hot weather, and alcohol is allowed anytime.

People are saying

"The picnic tables are cute, hidden, and surrounded by gorgeous gardens."

"This park is super convenient for visiting the Hollywood Bowl."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

The park features public restrooms for visitor convenience.

2

Highland Camrose Park is dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.

3

The park has widespread picnic areas for gatherings and relaxation.

04
Crystal Springs Picnic Area image 1

Four designated picnic areas offer ample tables and barbecue pits, perfect for large groups. Mature trees provide cooling shade and a relaxing atmosphere. A playground for kids adds family fun, while quiet corners invite peaceful moments.

Four designated areas offer ample picnic tables and barbecue pits for large groups. The space is large and clean, with a playground for kids and hot coal disposal for barbecues.

People are saying

"This park is perfect for picnics and barbecues with plenty of tables."

"The haunted hayride was a fun activity with cool decorations."

"It's a great place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available at Crystal Springs Picnic Area.

2

Bring your own food, beverages, blankets, and lawn chairs.

3

Hot coal disposal is available at the picnic area.

05
Shoreline Lake image 1

Man-made lake offers serene picnic spots with benches and open spaces. Biking trails and scenic hiking paths provide great outdoor activities. Water options like kayaking add to the fun, making it a peaceful yet lively place on weekends.

Serene setting with picnic spots and benches offers a quiet place to relax. Bike paths and open areas add space for a small picnic and outdoor activities.

People are saying

"This quiet spot by the lake is perfect for peaceful walks."

"It's a serene place perfect for a picnic."

"I found the parking available here was ample and free."

Good to know

1

The parking lot tends to be quite busy on weekends.

2

Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities.

3

The park offers hiking trails and water activities that can occupy visitors for a longer period.

06
Gloria Heer Park image 1

Park offers a quiet atmosphere with mature trees for shade and a softball field for local games. Spacious green areas and clean picnic tables create a peaceful picnic spot. Playground adds a touch of fun for families.

Spacious areas and clean picnic tables make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. The park stays well-kept and quiet, ideal for relaxed picnics.

People are saying

"This park is a cute, quiet place."

"It's a cute, quiet park perfect for a peaceful picnic."

"The bathroom here was clean."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms at Gloria Heer Park are clean.

2

The picnic tables at Gloria Heer Park are clean.

3

The playground equipment is in good condition.

07
Indian Springs Park image 1

Large baseball field and two playgrounds create a family-friendly vibe. Picnic tables near play areas and picnic shelters make it ideal for family picnics. Walking path and trailhead offer both easy strolls and challenging hikes in a peaceful setting.

Plenty of space and picnic tables near the playground make it great for family picnics. Picnic shelters and play equipment add to the setup.

People are saying

"The parks here are clean, with nice grass and fun playgrounds."

"The playground was clean and fun for the kids."

"I found it perfect for a family picnic with plenty of space."

Good to know

1

The park features two playgrounds suitable for children.

2

There are picnic areas available for family gatherings.

3

Parking is convenient and easily accessible.

08
Riverton Park image 1

Large grassy field and high-quality playground invite kids and dog walkers. Shaded picnic shelter with multiple tables offers great spots to eat. Hidden volleyball court adds fun, while the quiet, peaceful setting keeps it calm.

Shade covers the picnic area with a picnic shelter and multiple picnic tables. A very generous space opens to a large open field for spreading out.

People are saying

"It's a really kid-friendly place with a fantastic playground."

"The playground here is fantastic and really clean."

"It's a fun place for a child to play on the equipment."

Good to know

1

The park has a porta-potty, but no permanent restroom facilities.

2

Play structures are geared towards children aged 5 and up.

3

The park features a large grassy field and shaded areas for picnics.

09
Linda Vista Park image 1

Lush greenery and oak trees create a cool, shady park perfect for families. Multiple playgrounds and picnic areas with shared grills support fun gatherings. Open spaces include a large grassy lawn and an off-leash dog area marked by white lines.

Large areas with about 8 picnic tables surround a shared grill that needs a whole bag of charcoal. Smaller picnic tables have dedicated grills requiring less charcoal. All picnic spots offer plenty of shade and some sit next to a golf course fence for watching players.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here were kept clean."

"It's a great spot with plenty of picnic tables and shade."

"It's so Kid Friendly with separate play areas for big and little ones."

Good to know

1

The park has several playgrounds suitable for different age groups.

2

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained.

3

There are plenty of picnic tables and grills available.

10
Torrey Meadows Park image 1

Wide lawns and large gazebos make great spots for picnics and gatherings. Scenic trails offer quiet paths for walking and jogging. A playground with shade structures keeps kids safe and cool while adults relax nearby.

Big gazebos hold about seven picnic tables and a grill. Designated picnic areas include tables, benches, and grills ideal for family gatherings. Arrive early to get good parking and a spot.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be quiet and clean."

"The bathrooms here are really clean and in good condition."

"The playground here is well-kept and modern for a great picnic."

Good to know

1

Reservations for gazebos must be made through parks and recreation phone calls.

2

The park has designated picnic areas with tables, benches, and grills for gatherings.

3

Torrey Meadows Park is dog-friendly, with spacious grass fields and scenic trails.

11
Grape Arbor Park image 1

Park features grape vines over picnic tables, making it perfect for relaxing meals. Kids enjoy the playground and open spaces to run. Sports lovers find basketball courts and volleyball areas for active fun.

Many picnic tables sit under grape vines, creating a pleasant setting. The park offers nice spots for walks and relaxing with family or friends.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with plenty of room to run."

"It's a small park with a basketball court."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful place perfect for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Grape Arbor Park has limited parking spaces available.

2

The park is dog-friendly, allowing pets on leashes.

3

Public restrooms are available at Grape Arbor Park.

12
Beach wolf image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Sit at concrete picnic tables on soft sand with ocean views. Enjoy gourmet tacos and creative breakfast in a relaxed atmosphere. Dog-friendly seating and shaded areas make it easy to unwind by the beach.

Numerous concrete picnic tables sit both on and off the sand, offering spots to eat while gazing at the ocean. Plenty of tables exist, or you can simply lay in the sand for a more casual setup.

People are saying

"These tacos are so flavorful and delicious."

"Their avocado toast comes with smoked salmon or garden options."

"You have to try the potato curry tacos for your picnic."

Good to know

1

Beach Wolf operates until 7 PM daily.

2

There is free parking available above the beach.

3

They refill water bottles free of charge if you buy one.

13
Heisler Park Beach Stairway image 1

Coastal cliffs and crashing waves create breathtaking ocean views perfect for photography and nature walks. Smooth paths lead to beach access and picnic tables with barbecues offer great spots to relax. Visitors enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by scenic atmosphere and plenty of seating.

Ocean views frame the picnic tables and grass areas scattered throughout the park. Plenty of seating spots offer space to relax and enjoy the scenery.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful with stunning scenery."

"The park's views are gorgeous, especially the coastal cliffs and waves."

"It's a beautiful park, perfect for a family picnic with an ocean view."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during weekends.

2

Pets are allowed on the beach before 9am and after 6pm.

3

Public parking on Cliff Drive is free after 7 pm.

14
Mayor’s Bicentennial Park image 1

Park blends rustic charm with quiet picnics thanks to a no flame rule and cozy spots. Paved paths and footbridges add to its peaceful atmosphere. Small size means fewer crowds but limited parking and seating.

No flame rule lets you bring any precooked food and a picnic blanket. The park suits both picnics and photo shoots well.

People are saying

"I found the park to be a cute, hidden gem."

"It's a cute, hidden park, great for picnics."

"I found it to be a charming, hidden park."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, especially on weekends.

2

The park is a no flame picnic area, perfect for pre-cooked meals.

3

Seating areas are minimal and somewhat hidden.

15
Primrose Park image 1

Small park features a colorful playground with padded floors and shade sails, perfect for young kids. Quiet, secure fencing creates a safe space for families. Plenty of picnic seating and nearby stores make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

Lots of sitting areas and water fountains make it easy to enjoy a picnic. Nearby restaurants and a 99c store help with food and supplies.

People are saying

"This place is really kid friendly, with a colorful and clean playground."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with kid-friendly play areas."

"The bathroom here is really clean."

Good to know

1

The park has one unisex private bathroom, which may lead to wait times.

2

There is plenty of parking available, including electric vehicle charging spots.

3

The playground is suitable for children aged 1-10, with shaded areas for comfort.

16
Blevins Park image 1

Small, quiet park offers large open space for sports and a children's playground near picnic tables. Walking trail and dog areas add to the calm, safe vibe. Perfect for families and casual gatherings.

Picnic tables sit near a playground, making it easy to combine eating with play. Open spaces support parties and dog training alongside picnics.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for picnics with clean picnic tables."

"It's a small, clean park with a nice playground and restrooms."

"It's a great spot for dog training and picnics."

Good to know

1

Parking is accessible at Blevins Park.

2

The restroom at Blevins Park is very clean.

3

Blevins Park is great for dog training, picnics, and yoga.

17
Del Aire Park image 1

Large outdoor playgrounds and multiple sports courts keep energy high. Plenty of green space and shaded picnic areas offer spots for relaxing and barbecues. Dog walking and group activities make it a versatile spot for all ages.

Lots of trees provide shade over picnic tables and benches. The park offers many spots for picnics and barbecues with plenty of seating. Arriving early helps to reserve a picnic spot.

People are saying

"This place is really kid friendly with a great playground."

"It's a beautiful place with lots of shaded picnic tables."

"The bathroom was clean and up to date."

Good to know

1

Community events are held at the park throughout the year.

2

Ice cream trucks visit the park on some days for treats.

3

The park is clean and well-maintained for visitors.

18
Cottonwood Creek Park image 1

Park features large grassy areas perfect for picnics and sports. Multiple sports courts support active play. A spacious playground keeps kids entertained while the quiet atmosphere offers peaceful breaks from busy roads.

Large lawns and grassy knolls provide plenty of space for picnics. Covered tables and a gazebo offer sheltered spots for gatherings.

People are saying

"The parks have a great playground and tennis courts."

"The bathroom here is basic but always stocked with toilet paper and soap."

"It's a beautiful spot with plenty of picnic space, including covered tables."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small and often full, especially on weekends.

2

There is only one gazebo, so arrive early to claim it.

3

The park offers a variety of activities, including tennis, basketball, and a large playground.

19
Rocky Nook Park image 1

Running creek and old trees create a lush, shaded setting perfect for picnics with BBQ pits and accessible bathrooms. Families enjoy the playground while others explore serene trails surrounded by peaceful nature.

Lots of shade and chair-sized boulders create a romantic picnic setting. Picnic tables and BBQ pits sit near clean, handicapped accessible bathrooms.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, wooded spot for a picnic."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful setting."

"The bathrooms here are clean and accessible."

Good to know

1

The park has clean restrooms available on site.

2

Parking is ample and convenient for visitors.

3

Tables are available for picnics and gatherings.

20
Tustin Heritage Park image 1

Small park offers a large grassy field and a pirate ship playground for kids. Active visitors enjoy the outdoor hockey rink and basketball courts. Shaded picnic areas with plenty of benches make it perfect for casual meals and family gatherings.

Shaded by trees, the picnic area offers plenty of benches and picnic tables. It suits casual gatherings and even impromptu meals when restaurants are busy.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are clean and well maintained."

"It's a nice shaded spot with a fun playground for kids."

"It's a lovely, clean, and shady park for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Tustin Heritage Park hosts evening movie screenings during summer school breaks.

2

Restrooms are often closed, but when open, they are clean.

3

Parking is available for approximately 30 cars on both sides of the park.

21
Shoreline Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking views of San Francisco skyline and harbor with a peaceful atmosphere despite airplane flyovers. Trails are perfect for walkers and dog owners, while picnic spots provide ample space to relax and watch squirrels.

A cute spot with plenty of space to unwind and enjoy a picnic. Watching the squirrels at work adds a nice touch to the relaxing vibe.

People are saying

"It's a great place for walking your dog on leash."

"I saw gorgeous sunsets with amazing views."

"It's a great place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

There is easy free parking at the ferry terminal and along the roadside.

2

Restrooms are available at the Ferry Terminal and along Seaview Parkway.

3

Shoreline Park is dog-friendly, but there isn't an official dog park.

22
Old Mill Park image 1
City park

Tall redwoods and a calming creek create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for picnics and outdoor fun. Two sides offer play structures and grills with picnic tables, plus an outdoor stage for events. Trails and open spaces invite various outdoor activities.

Two distinct sides offer picnic options: one with a play structure, restrooms, and water fountain, the other with more picnic tables, grills, and an outdoor stage. Benches and tables sit near a woodsy area, all within walking distance to downtown for easy lunch pickup.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with redwoods and a great playground."

"It's a great picnic spot with tables and a woodsy area."

"I found the atmosphere here to be beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult because it is limited.

2

The bathrooms at Old Mill Park are clean.

3

Old Mill Park has benches and picnic tables for visitors.

23
Bird Park at Morley Field image 1

Open grass areas with volleyball nets invite casual sports, while aromatic gardens create a calm picnic spot. Families enjoy the playground and dog-friendly space, making it perfect for socializing and relaxation.

Open green spaces offer a great spot for a picnic. The area feels nice and relaxing for sitting down and enjoying food outdoors.

People are saying

"This area is a nice spot for a picnic."

"I think it needs designated off-leash hours to be more Dog Friendly."

"I wish these parks had designated off-leash hours."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available in the surrounding neighborhood.

2

Bird Park is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

There are no restrooms available in the park.

24
Heritage Park image 1

Gated playgrounds with swing sets offer safe fun for kids. Open grassy areas with large oak trees provide shade for picnics and active games. Quiet, clean spaces make it ideal for families and caregivers to relax and play.

A fenced area includes swing sets, picnic tables, and benches. Grassy spaces support running and playing games alongside picnicking.

People are saying

"It's really kid friendly with two playgrounds, one for little ones."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with fenced-in playgrounds and picnic tables."

"I found it to be a quiet downtown break."

Good to know

1

Heritage Park has two playgrounds, one for smaller kids and one for older kids.

2

There is plenty of free parking available.

3

The park is wheelchair accessible with paved walkways.

25
Golden Valley Park image 1

Large open space offers dog-friendly fenced areas and a gazebo for gatherings. Picnic tables with charcoal grills make outdoor cooking easy. Walking paths and playgrounds add to the family-friendly atmosphere surrounded by trees and hills.

Picnic spots include picnic tables with charcoal grills for cooking outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a great dog park, fully fenced for off-leash fun."

"The bathrooms here were nice and clean."

"The playground here is really nice."

Good to know

1

The park has both small and large dog areas.

2

The restrooms at the park are clean.

3

There is plenty of room for dogs to run and play.

26
Margie L. Rice Park image 1

Playground offers a fire truck theme with slides and swings near a real fire station. Picnic areas include shaded tables and clean restrooms. Park feels calm with few visitors and has barbecue stations for outdoor meals.

Numerous picnic areas spread across the park include a few shaded picnic tables on the side. The restroom and picnic area stay very clean.

People are saying

"This picnic spot's playground is a fire station theme."

"It's a cool fire truck themed playground facing a real fire station."

"The fire station themed playground has so many cool slides and swings."

Good to know

1

The park has a small playground that is clean and safe for kids.

2

Restrooms were locked during my visit, limiting access to facilities.

3

There is plenty of street parking available near the park.

27
Lower Scholl Canyon Park image 1

Small, secluded park offers shaded picnic tables and grassy open spaces perfect for family outings. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere suits kids' parties with a large jungle gym nearby. Ample parking and well-maintained grounds add to the private feel.

Shaded tables sit on a flat lawn, creating a cool, breezy picnic area. Many grassy spots and benches spread out near a large jungle gym and restrooms.

People are saying

"The picnic area is nice, shady, and has plenty of covered tables."

"I found plenty of parking available."

"It's secluded and shady, perfect for a kids' party."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available nearby for guests.

2

Restrooms are available at the park.

3

The park has plenty of shaded picnic areas.

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