


Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
About
Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park is a sprawling outdoor paradise offering families endless adventures on and off the water. With Puddingstone Lake at its center, this park combines water sports, camping, hiking trails, and picnic areas into one convenient destination. The diverse activities mean every family member can find something they love, from toddlers feeding ducks to teens trying paddleboarding.
Highlights
- ✓Puddingstone Lake with swimming beach and designated swim area perfect for families
- ✓Sailing school offering lessons for kids and families who want to learn together
- ✓Multiple playgrounds and extensive picnic facilities with BBQ grills
- ✓Over 7 miles of hiking and biking trails with varying difficulty levels
- ✓Camping facilities for families wanting an overnight adventure
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (by 8 AM) to secure prime lakeside picnic spots and parking, especially during summer months when the park fills up quickly.
- 2.Bring water shoes for kids, as the lake bottom can be rocky in places. Also pack plenty of sunscreen since shade near the water is limited.
- 3.Check out the RV campground office for information about daily boat and paddleboard rentals. Reservations are recommended for summer weekends.
- 4.The Hot Shot Cafe near the swim beach area sells snacks and drinks, but bringing your own cooler will save money and ensure picky eaters are happy.
- 5.Visit the less crowded north side of the lake for quieter hiking trails and better wildlife viewing opportunities with kids.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer ideal weather without summer crowds. Visit on weekday mornings for the most peaceful experience, especially if you want to enjoy hiking trails or sailing lessons without long waits.
What to Know
While park entry is free, there is a vehicle parking fee ($10-15 per day). Swimming beach access, camping, and boat rentals require additional fees. The park has multiple restrooms, picnic areas with grills, and a snack bar near the swim beach.
Seasonal Notes
The swim beach typically operates Memorial Day through Labor Day. Water activities are most popular May through September. Winter months (November to February) are quieter and great for hiking, but lake water is too cold for swimming. Some facilities may have reduced hours during off-season months.
Nearby Eats
Portillo's Hot Dogs in nearby San Dimas is a family favorite with great burgers and Italian beef sandwiches. For sit-down dining, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse offers a diverse kids menu and is about 10 minutes away.
More Activities Near City of Industry
Puddingstone Lake/ Reservoir - East Shore
Puddingstone Lake offers families a perfect escape for water-based fun and outdoor recreation without breaking the bank. With designated swimming areas, sandy beaches, picnic spots, and gentle hiking trails circling the scenic reservoir, there's something to keep every family member entertained. The calm waters make it ideal for introducing kids to paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing in a safe, supervised environment.
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area is a sprawling 836-acre outdoor playground in the San Gabriel Valley that offers families countless ways to enjoy nature without traveling far from the city. With a scenic lake perfect for fishing, miles of easy hiking and biking trails, spacious picnic areas under shade trees, and wide-open spaces for kids to run and explore, this regional park delivers a full day of outdoor adventure for families of all ages.
Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park
Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park offers families 575 acres of outdoor adventure in the hills of City of Industry. With over 10 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, fishing ponds stocked with catfish and bass, and expansive picnic areas with playgrounds, this free park provides a perfect escape from the urban sprawl for families seeking nature without traveling far from Los Angeles.
La Verne Heritage Park
La Verne Heritage Park is a spacious community oasis perfect for families seeking a full day of outdoor fun without spending a dime. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, open green spaces for picnics and play, sports courts, and well-maintained walking paths, this park offers something for every family member to enjoy.