Sunset from the exit of Galster Wilderness Park in West Covina

Outdoors

Boating and kayaking near West Covina

Lakes, reservoirs and rivers near West Covina for boating, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.

Good to know: Life jackets are required for children on most waters, and many lakes require an invasive-species inspection or a launch fee.

Within 30 miles (6)

4 mi northwest · US Army Corps of Engineers

Santa Fe Dam

Facilities at Santa Fe are operated by Los Angeles County Parks. Swimming, fishing, non-power boating, hiking and picnicking are available. Of interest are the five distinct biological communities within the area.

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Picnicking
  • Water sports
  • Wildlife viewing

7 mi west · US Army Corps of Engineers

Whittier Narrows Dam

This project is managed by Los Angeles County Parks and the City of Pico Rivera. Whittier Narrows has no permanent pool.

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Horseback riding
  • Picnicking
  • Water sports
  • Wildlife viewing

19 mi north · USDA Forest Service · Campground

Deer Group Camp

Deer Group Campground is a great place to bring an extended family or large group.

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Swimming
  • Water sports

21 mi southeast · US Army Corps of Engineers

Prado Dam

This San Bernardino County Parks managed area is an oasis within one of the fastest growing areas of Southern California. Riverside County and the City of Corona also provide recreation facilities.

  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Horseback riding
  • Picnicking
  • Water sports
  • Wildlife viewing

26 mi northeast · USDA Forest Service · Campground

Mountain Oak

Escape to Mountain Oak Campground in the Angeles National Forest for a restful, refreshing getaway from city life.

  • Biking
  • Birding
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Mountain Biking

29 mi northwest · US Army Corps of Engineers

Hansen Dam

The City of Los Angeles manages the extensive day-use facilities, including golf and riding stables, are available at this site in the San Fernando Valley.

  • Boating
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Picnicking
  • Water sports
  • Wildlife viewing

30 to 75 miles (1)

32 mi west · US Army Corps of Engineers

Sepulveda Dam

The Sepulveda Dam's recreation facilities are managed by the City of Los Angeles Parks.

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Picnicking
  • Water sports
  • Wildlife viewing

Distances are straight-line miles from downtown West Covina. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.

More outdoors near West Covina

Questions

Where is the closest place for boating & paddling near West Covina?

Santa Fe Dam (US Army Corps of Engineers), about 4 miles northwest of West Covina as the crow flies. Next are Whittier Narrows Dam (7 mi) and Deer Group Camp (19 mi).

When is the best time for boating & paddling near West Covina?

Based on West Covina’s average highs, all year. Conditions at higher elevations can be much cooler.

Who manages these places?

Federal agencies including US Army Corps of Engineers, USDA Forest Service. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.

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