This place is a premier birding hotspot in the area. The diverse habitats--ranging from the expansive reservoir to quiet, leafy coves--attract a stunning variety of waterfowl and local species. It is incredibly peaceful to walk along the water and just listen to the birdsong. Whether you are a casual observer or a dedicated birder with a ebird checklist, you'll find plenty to see here. Beyond the wildlife, the park is well-maintained with clean facilities and great trails, making it a perfect escape into nature. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a quiet morning of birdwatching! Note: There is a parking fee here. read more

Use to be my favorite park Not after a FESTATION of Cantharis livida (beetle) flying in my hair, on tables , blankets food, clothes & our hidden Easter eggs . we just recently have a new born baby added to our family . Couldn't ENJOY the day or the new born trying to keep these nasty Flying beetles off of her . Easter Eve at the Bonelli Park was very uncomfortable. Also to find out these flying beetles snuck into our items as we brought them home . i've been to plenty of parks in my lifetime and never had this unsanitary bug infestation like this......NEED TO CONSIDER SPRAYING !!!! read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - BEETLE - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

What an oasis of natural wildlife beauty snuggled into a suburban area! I'm talking about Puddingstone Reservoir in Bonelli Regional Park. The greater park has camping, biking/walking trails, fishing, and day use sections for all day outdoor enjoyment. For me, I come for being on the water. I've kayaked here several times now. When entering from Via Verde, you'll need to stop at the gate: left for Raging Waters, straight on for Bonelli. If kayaking, your craft will be inspected for dryness so as to not bring in any disruptive, invasive, minuscule hitch hikers. You'll need to show you have pfds. There is a $9 up charge to the day use fee of $15 for non motorized water craft. A senior discount is offered. Other fees (and reservations) are needed for RV camping. I follow the road along to Sailboat Cove where I launch from. The parking lot has car spots as well as pull-through spots for trailers. The ramp is graded concrete, with room for 2 launches at a time. There are two docks. For non-motorized craft, most folks launch from the shoreline. Once you're on the lake, disengage from the larger world and enter the peaceful world of nature. The transition is practically magical! The soft lapping of the wakes from boaters across the lake is so relaxing as you're encompassed by birdsong. Bring your list if you're a birder, as there are so many varieties of waterfowl here to be seen and heard. There are fish, too, as this place is also a popular fishing hole for anglers. For me, down low and quiet, looking into the green yet clear water, I can see schools of small fish. My favorite section is to the right, where there's a passageway to a small cove at the outer limit of the lake. At some times during the year, there's more algae and this space appears to be a fish nursery, it is so filled with schools of small fish protected by the plant growth. There's a swim beach further out and to the right, a dock for fishing about mid-lake by day use/camping, rentals during the season for watercraft, and a motorized boating area over by one of the dams for zooming about. Overall, this is a haven for suburbanites to get away from it all for a while. Joggers, bikers, dog walkers, campers, anglers, kayakers, swimmers (when swim beach is open), family get togethers, bbq-ers and picnickers - this is the place for you! read more

See all

I came here for the first time and it is a very beautiful place. There was plenty of parking. There is a man made beach, and a lot of different areas to go at if that isn't your thing. I did a hike on the bonelli trail which I would not recommend. But if you are just spending the day sitting a relaxing it can be peaceful if there aren't any jet skis on the water. read more

See all

Amazing park ... we love going here for camping!!! I think it is a great experience for the kids. It has so many play grounds, full of trees with shade, bike lines, and a huge lake where park of it it's a mini beach, part for fishing and part for paddle boarding etc. overall a great park to go and have a Great Family time read more

Frank G. Bonelli, is a former member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors from 1958 to 1972. This Regional park is named after him and is more than 1800 acres with the following amenities: - Man-made Lake for swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing. - Numerous hiking trails that vary from easy to more difficult to navigate. - Children's playground with swings, "jungle" gym slides and equipment. - Most picnic areas have concrete tables and benches and a BBQ grill and are available on first-come first-served basis. - Large picnic areas for groups of 20 to 200 can be reserved online from the County's website. Prices vary based on size. There is an entry fee of $12 per car, $8 for senior citizens. The park is open Wednesday through Sunday (closed on Christmas day). Bring the family and enjoy the area, dogs on a leash are permitted. Sincerely, Rosemary read more

See all

Beautiful views, peaceful walks, friendly neighbors, and green grass everywhere. Cant ask for more when you wanna get away last minute and take alittle family trip close by and make great memories. Thanks Bonelli read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - View of the lake - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

Confirmed. Unfortunately Parking is now $15 YEAR ROUND . Also currently closed Monday and Tuesday. (Just spoke to park rep 10.27.25). read more

See all

Very nice and peaceful as well as a good place to cool down if needed during these hot times. Price was $15 to enter and restrooms were very nice compared to other parks. Will definitely stop by again. read more

First time here with my church friends, it a cloudy day but we really enjoyed this spacious park. Lots of picnic tables and trash cans nearby, it's convenient and keeping our natural environment clean. After food, we walked around the lake and had so much fun with the ducks and stunning views. Highly recommended for family time and friends if you love nature. read more

See all

The hiking and mountain bike trails have been over grown for months and no one seems to care. With rattlesnake bite being in the news you would think that would want the trails to be cleaned up. There should be warning signs on the trails for people walking there dogs. I have sent 2 emails out and no responses. I called the headquarters office at the park and I was told that they are not responsible for the landscaping of the park, which makes no sense. read more

Stunning views and great place for animal lovers and beginner hikers like me! Saw plenty of seniors and kiddos navigating the trail fairly easily too! Lots of wheelchair friend picnic spots and flat paths. Beautiful scenic water views and clear skies. High tide hit but still safe and other seating options available. Look closely and move slowly! Plenty of critters like bugs, birds, and froggies. Great to walk big dogs and plenty of room to guide them away from others if needed. read more

See all

Southern California has so many great regional parks, and Bonelli in San Dimas is one of them. We visited on a random Tuesday, when school was in session and people were at work, so we pretty much had the park to ourselves. We stopped at the first parking lot near the entrance and played at the playgrounds there (there were three playgrounds!), and also hiked a little ways into the canyons. The hikes here are gorgeous, and the one we did had an overlook that looked out onto the park. The hiking trail that we did -- I think it was the Bonelli Trail -- didn't have much shade, so you might want to bring a hat if you hike around here. This park is very peaceful, with lots of wildlife to observe, like squirrels and birds and things. There was also a steady stream of police cars that either sat and parked in the parking lot or cruised by. So this area is well looked-after. read more

Bonelli is a great park to come to for hiking, walking, running, cycling, etc.! I've been coming here since I was a kid and even ran here in high school for my cross country practices and races. There's honestly so much bonelli has to offer including multiple playgrounds, a trailer park campsite, and the swim beach that's open during the summer. I personally love running here since there are so many different trails. There's honestly other parts of the park that I have yet to explore so im always just coming back! read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - Inside the park - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

The perfect place to visit to get fresh air, to go for a bike ride, a hike, a walk, have a picnic, fish, camp, just enjoy some peaceful time by the lake, and more depending on the season. I have been coming here pretty much all my life. But even more so the past few years. There is a fee for parking during the summer season May 1 - September 30. And only on the weekends and holidays during the winter season October 1st- April 30th. During the summer, when I go, I will sometimes park at the Park and Ride instead and walk into the park. It is very peaceful to be there, I either go to bike, hike on the trails, or walk around by the lake. There are a few bathrooms around the park, and are usually pretty clean and maintained. Plenty of parking in the park. Definitely more crowded during the summer and weekends. But, I tend to go in the off season during weekdays! I love bringing my camera to take pictures here, whether it's while I'm on the trail or by the lake. Plenty of birds to take photos of, flowers and trees depending on the seasons. Often people are there having their family photos taken as well. read more

See all

It was my first time here and it's safe to say I'm coming back. The entrance/parking fee is $15 and a launch pass for paddle boards and kayaks is $9 unless you have a motorized vehicle then it's $12. I would say that's pretty reasonable for a good time. I'm not sure if we went on a slow day but it was empty and very relaxing. We noticed more people were getting there in the late afternoon (around 5/6) so if you like peace and quiet go earlier! read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - Paddle boarding - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

I throughly enjoy this park. Has a beautiful 3 mile loop and multiple playgrounds along the way, followed by a beautiful view of the water. Perfect for families on an evening stroll w the dogs or even on a quiet run. However once the sun goes down, there's not much light and I believe it closes at 8pm, you got to start making your way back to the car. There's a dog living there, and I've seen many people try to lure her to come back home with them. Seems like this pup is living her best life outside, and being fed by everyone around. However, they're "trapping her so she can go to her new family" sounds pretty heartbreaking to me. If you want to save a dog, go to the shelter, please! We aren't playing Pokémon over here with Miss Freesia. She has a good temperament, I don't think she needs a savior. Free-sia, bc let that dog be free! read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - Free Freesia :( she's happy here - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

As an avid birder, I can't believe it's taken me so long to visit Bonelli but I finally did and the amount of species I saw on my brief morning walk was astounding!! I've had so many birder friends hounding me to visit and I'm so glad I finally did - definitely a fantastic spot for birding, but also for fishing, kayaking and boating, or even just for relaxing by the reservoir! The lake in the heart of the park is 250-acre Puddingstone Reservoir and is a very important habitat for the birds and other wildlife in the area. The park is very well maintained and has tons of picnic tables and other areas to relax and enjoy the fresh air. The picnic tables by the lake are out in the open but the ones by the main parking lot are covered. The numerous trees provide some shade but I recommend sunscreen. There's a nice pier that gets you a little closer to the birds further out in the water - this is a fantastic place to watch the many Grebes that visit during their migrations - their mating dances are quite a splendid sight to see! There are lots of ground squirrels here as well and I saw a woman going around throwing lots of peanuts while I was there - it's cute to watch them eat but I'm not entirely sure this is good for them bc they become dependent :/ The park is very large with campgrounds and lots of different recreational areas. I visited the main part of the park by the nice beach but it seemed closed, perhaps for the winter? There were many people fishing by the parking area. It also has a large playground and there are plenty of clean bathrooms everywhere. Theres also a visitor center but it was closed when I arrived. During my visit I walked as much of the lake perimeter as I could and it was an easy stroll with so many birding opportunities! I saw 26 species in less than 2 hours - a fantastic morning! I'll definitely be back again in spring to try and catch some shots of the Grebes spectacular mating dance in all its glory! read more

See all

We rang in the New Year in chill mode by staying a few nights at Bonelli Park. Prices are reasonable with full hook ups for electricity and plumbing. The park is small and straightforward - you check in, park, plug in, and relax. It's set up in loops so you can go on easy meandering bike rides through different sections of the park and not get lost. Me and the kids took a sunset ride and got to see the sun set over the lake. I was envious of those who had lakeside view - super serene! There's a little market with barebones amenities: water, light snacks, NO alcohol (until further notice - I wonder what happened there?), and souvenirs. There's a small playground with two swing sets and a slide to help pass the time. If you're looking for chill, easy vibes, and to feel like you're far from home (but still freeway close), this is the spot. read more

This is one of the most beautiful parks in Southern California where else can one go to access vivid green pastures, a beautiful and still lake peppered with adorable ducks and elegant geese, and hiking trails of all intensities?! The daily charge goes to maintaining the parks and the increase in fees isn't the park's fault. It's super worth it to come here and escape the city. Also, there's bugs at the park. All kinds. ITS A PARK. There's wildlife and birds and fish... there are going to be bugs. If you don't like bugs, stay inside (: read more

This park has it all. Great picnic areas, fantastic hikes, and even a lake to launch your boat or kayak. My experience with this park was mostly for the hikes. Some fantastic trails here, a little bit for everyone. I was fortunate enough to launch a raft into the water with friends. The whole process was quite straight forward, just pay for parking at the staging area. Launch your vessel, make sure you have life jackets, and half fun. Brought some food to picnic after some fun in the waters. Overall a great place for all sorts of recreation activities. Perhaps I'll try the camping. read more

Great place for family picnic. The lake is so big and good for fishing. But the parking is so expensive

Went here to try our luck at fishing with my niece. Plenty of parking. We should've arrived early in the morning when fish usually that's when they bite. We went to the Puddingstone Reservoir side near the swim beach. We continued walking to fish at the pier towards the left after you park. It was a lovely view of the reservoir. The park recently stocked up fish, but unfortunately, we didn't catch any. Even other people fishing, whom we chatted with didn't catch any fish. Nevertheless, it was the adventure and time spent with my niece that was memorable. Beautiful park to take your family with to enjoy your day. read more

While the park was nice, the $15 parking fee was steep considering the beach was closed off completely. There were also a lot of dog and geese poo. read more

The park is big, with many activities, and close to, in the way inside there is a water park. Excellent for paddling, canoeing and fishing. There are tables for picnic and restrooms. You can take your dog. The place is so peaceful! It is worth to go there to spend a day with your family. My grandson loved fishing there. read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

This RV park is absolutely gorgeous. Every employee is friendly, kind, courteous and helpful... I'm part of a group and once or twice a year I'm in charge of making reservations for usually 10 - 12 rigs.... Shane Vasse is absolutely wonderful to work with.. I've had to make changes several times.... No problem.. he's there if I needed him, and never makes me feel like I'm being a pest. And always such a pleasure to work with. Bonelli is absolutely gorgeous.... The grounds so well kept. Maintenance is available within minutes if you need them. Every employee is friendly and welcoming. Can't wait to come back again read more

See all

I love coming to this park to relax and hike, fish, and spend time with the family. Now charging $15 day use. I'll miss coming here.

I could have sworn I have previously written a review for this place... Occasionally, I think yelp eats a review or two. But considering how much we all eat around here, I guess it's only fair that she gets a serving from time to time... Anyway, Frank G Bonelli, regional Park, known to those of us who grew up as children of the 80s, as simply "Puddingstone," is a relatively large man-made reservoir, nestled in the hills above San Dimas. For decades, my family and friends have joined me there for various purposes: kayaking, fishing, park barbecues, the occasional mud, run, or organized, race, and most frequently, for various trail walks, hiking, and hill running. The lake has a pretty well defined path that circumnavigate it, as well as miles and miles of horse trails that Chris cross the hillside in the general area around Bonelli Park. There are horse stables, a private, RV camp, and while I'm not sure if they are still open, they used to have hot tubs at the top of the hill with a pretty incredible view. In the spring and summer seasons, there is an admission charge at the gate, but from approximately November through April, or so, weekdays are free to enter with a vehicle. Most of the time, I parked outside somewhere, and walk or bike in. Speaking of bikes, there are many cyclists to use this area to train, particularly on some of the hills, which can be quite steep. There are grassy areas on the east and north shores, a dedicated, boat ramp, picnic facilities, and even a small fishing pier. There used to be two fishing piers, but some idiot did not realize that you cannot build a campfire on a wooden pier surface... Too bad, it used to be a cool spot to fish. Speaking of fish, there are signs posted all over the place that suggest you do not eat anything out of here, but there are quite a few subsistence fisherman who ostensibly fly the lake's waters for a little extra protein. There are seasonal bites on the usual, so CAL lake, fish, and shhh... don't tell anyone, OK? But there are actually a few nice bass probably still swimming around in there. Especially if the same 15 of us who know how to catch them continue to release them healthy. More of a sure thing is boating on the lake, although be advised: they are absolutely hysterically over the top nuts about making sure quagga mussels don't get into the lake, so if you have even the suggestion of water in your boat from anywhere else... Including a puddle that you drove through on the way in... They're not going to let you watch. Seriously. A puddle. Um, not that that happened to me or anything. At certain times of the year, the hill, sides, green up, with all sorts of beautiful plants blooming with sprays of wildflowers here in there. Most of the remainder of the year, it's Tinder dry brush... So be extra cautious with your coals, and for God sakes, quit smoking already. Speaking of getting healthy, most days see plenty of folks and families walking, cycling, running, or hiking on the paths and trails. The fastest path around the lake takes about 5 1/2 miles, but if you're creative with some of the trails, you can easily turn a trip around putting stone into a half marathon if you want to. Whatever you do out there, please pick up your trash, and be respectful of one another. This is one of the last community lakes in the area that is enjoyed by so many different people, and it would be a shame if it were restricted to all due to a couple of idiots. read more

See all

This is a huge park! First off, admission is $12.50 per car, but $5 if you come with a senior. There are plenty of parking spots at various sections. Parking areas are usually near a restroom so that's always a plus! This is a beautiful regional park. Everywhere it's clean and paths are easy to walk. If you opt to hike higher up, there are also plenty of hiking trails. There's a lake and the trail along the lake that provides such a calm and delightful sight with the mountains in the background. If you go around during winter you'll be able to see the snow capped Mt. Baldy in the background. I love that it's dog friendly so you can bring your fur babies along. Plenty of people jog and bike, so that's another option for some exercise. The air is clean and fresh as it's a little distance away from the smog-filled LA. Highly recommend! read more

See all

It is a nice place to visit and to connect with nature. The parking lot: They have different areas for parking. In the front of the main entrance if the day is not a busy one! Or at different designated areas all around the park. The park itself: It's the Heaven of San Dimas . You can enjoy the lake level horizon which give joy and tranquility. In addition to the green color every where around. It is indescribable beauty! Activities: Various types of activities from walking to biking to jogging to running and more Or if you want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature with a book! Tips: - Grab some snacks specially if you have kids with you - Bring chairs or a picnic blanket just in case if the park is busy - Bring water of course - Take sweater if you are planning to stay late Also, you can bring your pet with you. It's a pet friendly park. The admission ticket now is $12 and they prefer cash. The fee for an annual pass it's $150 although it excludes holidays It is a great place to hang out with friends and family and to enjoy nature read more

See all

So many playgrounds and so much beauty fishing, camping , hiking. Swimming. Such good time read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - Peaceful - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

See all

It was my gratitude to always run through here in my old cross country team. Shout-out to Chaffey College Cross Country and former Coach Lander and to the panthers and pantheresses of 2022-2024. It is beautiful, well maintained, and used for many recreational purposes by various visitors. Very lovely place. May your next outdoor adventure take you here? Thank you to Parks and Recreation for helping preserve this good park and Puddingstone Reservoir. May peace be upon you and your loved ones. To God be all the glory. read more

Frank G Bonelli Regional Park - Puddingstone Lake photo from Puddingstone Dam. - Parks Near Me - San Dimas, California

Always a great LA county park, Hubby at work kids at school, what to do... what to do ... TRAILS, beautiful trails for walking for mountain bikes... Today, perfect weather ... no sun, cloudy light drizzle why not mountain bike, if you love nature and getting muddy, good location for that! read more

See all

Beautiful and HUGE park. It is a $12 entrance fee per car, but free during weekdays during winter season. I counted 4 separate playgrounds as we drove by. People were biking, fishing, having picnics, and playing on playgrounds. There was also a gorgeous lake with tons of ducks! We also saw some cool rock formations that kids were climbing, but we didn't have time to go there today. Honestly, this park had so much you could do here! The park is huge and a lot of much maintenance, so the fee is understandable. We'll definitely come back often! read more

See all

Visited on Saturday, 05/21/22 for the very first time (I probably visited years ago when I was just a kiddo but do not recall). $12 entrance fee per vehicle. VERY HUMONGOUS park! Fresh air, remarkable scenery, and a great place to truly relax and spend time with family while being in a "remote area. The wildlife here is wonderful - we got to see amazing, unique bird species. You can fish, kayak, bike, hike, party, the list goes on! We hiked very far and would recommend bringing water. It was our first time hiking so we really did not know where we were going; we ended up hiking back to where we started since it will take HOURS to hike in FULL circle. There is POOP everywhere (doggo and duck poop) so be careful and wash your shoes after! Truly love this place - overall 5/5! read more

See all

It was a long trail - the Puddingstone trail from Alltralls app, so prepare snacks, water and wear hiking shoes. We took a short cut by the make, walked for one Lapp around this huge make was about 5 miles, but if you following the trail from the AllTrails app it would be 8 miles. Love my hike on Easter weekend 2021, Very beautiful view in the hills, stunning sunset view, beautiful camp grounds, bathrooms convenience, blooming flowers everywhere, found in sections making on flower branches haha! Well you now, it's spring time! TIP= $12 entry on weekend! I think it's free in weekend? But perfect spot for BBQ picnic and camping! read more

See all

Free on the weekdays, $12 entrance fee on the weekends, but you're supporting a local park, no issues from me here! I'm honestly surprised that such a nice park is located so close to me (yeah, yeah I know Schabaurum is there too), but having a lake really does hit different you know? I thought it was really cool how there was such a large body of water and people were fishing and rowing boats on the water. Lots of ducks, pelicans, cormorants, and other water fowl to take a gander at. We went farther up into the park and found a spot that had no people near us and we got to see all the cormorants fishing. There was an elote man hustling and his food was pretty good. A nice way to spend a morning/afternoon. I definitely want to come back and to a Yuru Camp photoshoot here. read more

Great beautiful park for a day out at the lake and/or picnic with friends and family. Went primarily for fishing and chilling, and it's a beautiful place to do so! Well kept and fairly clean, but the water was a bit filthy last time I went but it may be just due to excessive parties visiting and/or the heat. Overall for just $12 entry, I highly recommend visiting! read more

See all

The park is great. The restrooms are a disaster! Since the park is charging to enjoy the park and facilities it all should be cleaned regularly and attended by staff. I am giving 2 stars because several of the restroom stalls had no toilet paper, the toilet seats were dirty and the floor was filthy with trash and toilet paper absolutely disgusting. read more

We live close to Bonelli, so often walk over to the lake. Our dogs enjoy the walk and seen the ducks and geese and squirrels. Occasionally we in front across the coyote as long as you leave them alone, they will leave you alone. I've seen many people fishing, barbecuing, playing in the playground. This is a great place for a small gathering. Very large corporate gathering. They have many different areas of the park. I would highly recommend looking online and becoming familiar with the park set up. I would caution not to walk alone as we have encountered not so friendly folks on the trail. read more

See all