I've lived near this area on and off for a decade, and had no idea this spot existed! So glad to have found it. It's definitely a hidden gem to get out in nature and away from the city. There are multiple areas to go and either hike, or hang out. Benches. A good parking lot. The small hike to the top of the canyon is gorgeous. Only about 15-20 minutes and the views are great. They have working bathrooms that aren't gross. It's not an extraordinary or fancy park or anything, but it's the perfect place to just be in nature. I'm looking forward to going back! Only bummer is it looks like there was a nature center that's been closed since 2023. It looked like it would've been cool. Same with the amphitheater. read more

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We've been here several times already, and every time I come back, I find something new to enjoy about this place. The drive to Franklin Canyon is already beautiful, very green and peaceful. Once you get there, it feels quiet and relaxing, almost like you're not in LA anymore. There are a lot of trails depending on what kind of walk you want, plus many picnic tables if you want to bring food and spend a few hours there. The main lake is beautiful, but my favorite part is the smaller pond with turtles, ducks, and huge koi fish. The animals are very used to people and come pretty close, which makes it really fun to watch. If you walk higher up near the fire station, the views are amazing. There's also an amphitheater and a small museum area that I still want to visit next time Everything feels clean and well maintained, including the restrooms, and they even have water for dogs if you come with your pet. Overall, it's just a really peaceful place with a calming atmosphere. Definitely recommend if you want a little nature escape without driving too far from the city. read more

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Really enjoyed this spot. It's quiet, peaceful, and feels like a hidden escape right in the middle of the city. Parking is very convenient and close to the trail, which makes it easy to access. The trail itself is calm with plenty of shade, so it's great even on warmer days. The people around were friendly and respectful, which added to the overall experience. One of the highlights was seeing turtles swimming and ducks around the water. A nice touch that makes the place feel more alive. Overall, a very relaxing and enjoyable place. Definitely worth visiting. read more

Franklin Canyon Park - Ducks - Parks Near Me - Beverly Hills, California

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I'm bummed to hear of the break ins in other reviews. As I work in the area, I have made it a run to get to this trail so I have never taken a car. It's nice. You definately feel one with nature, with occassional scares of squirrels walking over leaves, and ponds filled with ducks and turtles. A few park benches throughout. As there are multiple entrances, you get a different experience each time. A nice hike if you go with friends. The pond and the views truly make it scenic. Family friendly and easy hike. read more

Franklin Canyon Park - Parks Near Me - Beverly Hills, California

As of 3/2026, the north entrance is FINALLY open again! I've been hiking the trails for almost 10 yrs. Far fewer people than other trails for being so centrally located. Very quiet and serene. There ARE cameras at several of the stop signs. It only took me being fined once to learn to stop and count to three. Good for safety and a reminder to slow down and enjoy the setting. read more

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Such a great outdoor park! Accessible bathrooms, very peaceful, and lots of different trails to try. The drive up here is a little daunting as it goes by some narrow mountain roads- so if you're a nervous driver, I would get a buddy to carpool and drive with you. Ample parking available and lots of shade throughout the park, and picnic tables too. read more

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What is the coordinate to get to the Andy Griffith lake? I've hiked here twice and always end up somewhere else. Today, it looked like they were widening the halstein trail. We powered through that trail to find older ladies and families with dogs coming down. Turns out there is a longer less challenging trail and the entrance of the first parking lot. We typed up Franklin canyon reservoir which is about 500ft further. There was trail closed signs Monday-Thursday and a heavy machinery vehicle to make the trail wider parked. We were able to walk past it... next time, we'll go up the longer less challenging trail! read more

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First hike in a long time! Franklin Canyon Park is an extensive series of paths, roads, inclines, and nature, but this is definitely a favorite. It's never too too busy, plenty of room to navigate about, lots of ponds, cool half bridges and nature around you. We explored for a good 90 minutes as much as possible, a few paths that lead to nowhere or that we blocked by fallen trees, muddy road and small obstacles. There aren't as many guiding signs as some other Canyon Parks and trails, but it's still fairly easy to get around. You'll find yourself on paved road a bit with cars coming or going at times, everyone is mindful, cautious and keeps the speed low - we did have one couple driving out get a little too close with a few of us. A few park benches in various places to sit and enjoy the scenery, have a meal or take a beat. My friend Andrew noted they filmed and shot a lot of exteriors here for AHS:1984, even constructing some temporary sets. If you check out the in Media (sections for various sites) or Filming Locations (IMDb) you'll note projects from the 1930s to present day, including: A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Manchurian Candidate, Purple Rain, Platoon, Criminal Minds, Twin Peaks, Star Trek and True Blood to name a few. Aside from filming this huge slice of nature can be rented out for event and occasions in parts. The Sooky Goldman Nature Center (and visitor center) is a perfect place to refill your water bottles, use the facilities (clean as can be), grab a snack, and check out their exhibits and/or programs when available. For wildlife ducks are in abundance the most, but can't forget about those awesome bullfrogs, turtles, other reptiles, birds, butterflies, natures weavers and co. Perfect place to explore, get in steps, enjoy time with family, friends or that special someone while also enjoying the great outdoors. Q Tips: Sunscreen, hydrating and snacks for fuel are your friends. Parking is marked clearly - plenty of signs and things to note for areas, including where not to park (with camera monitoring - look out for those trash bin looking podiums in places). You can enter from a few different ways including where Coldwater Canyon and Mulholland Drive meet - directly across for another favorite spot (Tree People). read more

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主打路线：Reservoir Loop Trail。环绕湖泊，平坦好走，全程大概1.5英里，遛娃遛狗遛自己都OK！ ·隐藏副本：喜欢一点点挑战的，可以去探索Hastains Trail，钻进橡树林和枫树林，坡度适中，运动量刚刚好，暴汗完皮肤都会发光！ · 林间小道：阳光透过树叶洒下光斑，跑起来抓拍，你就是森林里最活泼的小精灵！ 野生导游的贴心小Tips： · 导航定位：直接搜 Franklin Canyon Park 即可。停车场不大，建议早点来当"早鸟"！ · 装备建议：舒服的鞋子是必须的！水！水！水！重要的事情说三遍。还可以带点小零食，在湖边野餐，快乐翻倍。 · 无痕徒步：我们是可爱的徒步人，记得把垃圾带走哦～ 徒步总结报告： 运动量达标，身体轻盈，心情满分 read more

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Franklin Canyon Park felt like a hidden escape in the middle of the city. I went with someone and spent hours walking trails, sitting by the pond, and enjoying the quiet. Teenagers were having picnics, taking nature photos, and relaxing in groups. The atmosphere is something teens would love because it is peaceful, open, and full of nature without feeling too far from the city. The service shows in how clean and well maintained the park is with clear paths and safe areas. The value is great because you can spend the whole day exploring without spending money. The quality of the environment is high with beautiful trees, wildlife, and open spaces. The selection of trails, picnic spots, and scenic areas gives teenagers plenty to enjoy. I have only been once but it felt special. Teenagers would love the calm energy, the nature views, and the space to be creative and I highly recommend it. read more

Unfortunately, no longer a safe park. Had my car broken into and items taken within 40 minutes of arriving. AAA had to come help and I was told this is increasingly common in the this park - he had recently been there for the exact same thing. Clearly this is a trend yet there's a complete lack of security. Without feeling safe or feeling like your belongings are safe while locked in your car, unfortunately a park like this has no value. read more

Stumbled upon this park while looking for something to do in the area. It was great! (Well, there's that one part where I almost stepped on a rattlesnake who was about to strike a squirrel in the middle of the trail - but we all got a scare and we all survived sooooo, I digress). Great views. Great shade. Easy to follow paths. Clean and stocked bathrooms. Best stumble I've had in a long time. read more

Get away from the city and escape here! I had no idea this beautiful park existed and it's full of ducks and turtles! This is thanks to the efforts of conservationist Sooky Goldman and Congressman Howard Berman, which resulted in the creation of the park in the 1970's or else this wouldn't exist!! There are free events that are held if you feel like a late moonlit hike or in case you want to learn about the different plants and wildlife here! A little info about this place, it is about 605 acres, leashed dogs are allowed and it's filled with a lot of history! It also has some movie history which I've listed for you. Historically the park traces its beginnings to 1914 when William Mulholland and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power built a reservoir in upper Franklin Canyon. The canyon was used by the family of oil baron Edward L. Doheny as a summer retreat. The 1930s began the frequent use of the canyon for filming. American Horror Story (2011- ) ... Sleepwalkers (1992) ... When a Stranger Calls (2006) ... The Brady Girls Get Married (1981 TV Movie) ... The Frankenstein Monster Project (2019) ... The A-Team (1983-1987) read more

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It is a public municipal park located near Benedict Canyon, at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. The park is conveniently located at the purported geographical center of LA, and it is free to the public and no permit is required to hike any of the trails, and dogs are welcome on leashes. The hiking trails are moderate for the most parts, though the uphills could get steep and slippery from time to time. The pond and reservoir provide respite for a variety of birds, plenty of ducks and turtles, and remember not to feed the animals in the water, as you may cause damage to the environment despite your good intentions. read more

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My car was broken into and credit cards stolen from the parking lot. Not cool ! How do they not have security cameras for that but do for stop signs ?! read more

BEWARE! The park rangers here are out to fine people for minor violations. I chalk this up to the general greed in Beverly Hills. There are stop signs here that are carefully filmed. If you don't make a complete stop at these signs, they will send you a citation of $100 per violation. I've been here twice with friends. The first time, I didn't have any problems. However, last December I was sent two $100 fines for not stopping long enough at these signs. This was annoying having to pay $200 considering how much I spent on Christmas gifts! There was no hikers present on the road at the time and I was the only car driving on the road for a while since it was pretty secluded, but THEY ARE TRYING TO TAKE YOUR MONEY! Please look this up: The Mountain Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) has created their own set of rules for ticketing using stop sign cameras, however this is not under the California Vehicle Code and is not legally enforced by Los Angeles County. Los Angeles no longer enforces red light cameras, which is why the MRCA has invented its own set of rules. These tickets are not being issued to you from the DMV but the MRCA operating on its own rules. read more

If you are a woman, don't go here alone. It is a dangerous place. Beware of seemingly friendly park personnel. Beware of many dogs not on leashes. This is a beautiful place, however, it is extremely unsafe for women. read more

I love this park. It's so peaceful. If you take your dog; make sure your dog wears those shoe booties to avoid pokies. I just wish they fixed the pot holes driving out. They have a parking lot so easy parking too. read more

Be careful at this park with the parking situation. There are signs that say take valuables with you, and it's true. Had items stolen within hour of doing the hike. read more

I came here with my bf & a couple friends, it wasn't much of a hike but the location was nice. This is a good place to go for a walk or even set up a little picnic,there is plenty of space to set up on the floor or even a couple tables the further up you go. My friends daughter absolutely loved the little lake since there were many ducks and turtles. I would definitely come again but next time for sure bring snacks and pack lunch to just enjoy the scenery. Ps. Keep in mind if you bring your smalls ones to hold their hand while making your way up because there tend to be a lot of cars passing. read more

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LAKE: Pretty. You can find a little spot and just hang out and read or have a picnic. TRAIL: There is some semblance of a trail but it's very hard to follow which was a bit frustrating. I think it begins at the Franklin Canyon building across from the parking lot. There is a set of wooden stairs. It's difficult to follow because the trail ends at several points, being superseded by the paved road. I mostly walked the paved road seeking these bits of trail (which are totally unmarked). Anyway, if you're looking for a definitive trail to follow, look elsewhere. This park is best for hanging out by the lake or just walking around without a set purpose. PARKING: Ample spaces in the lot. CAVEAT: Be careful driving here. For one, the roads are very serpentine and narrow. Slow down as there is two-way traffic which you can't see around curves. Also, there are people walking on the roads. Finally, the stop signs are photo-enforced (this is clearly delineated using signage). read more

It's one of my favorite parks/ hikes. Kids friendly. There are a lot of shades, and the path isn't narrow. You can see ducks, turtles, and fish at the pond. I think I saw a koi fish or goldfish in it. read more

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An incredible hike. Beautiful. You hike behind Tree People. All dirt paths leading into a neighborhood. Small parking lot. Some street parking. read more

I'm doing hikes pretty much every single weekend. I'm working my way to do the six pack of peaks for SoCal. So I added this one to my list to try and change things up. I may boost this up to a 5 star but.. I will need to go back and try and get a better rock.of the trials. It was actually pretty difficult to find where the trailheads were, I even run into a couple people searching as well. There is not a lot of signage up for them it is a heavy residential road sooo I get privacy but it was a bit of a pain. I ended up finding a back Kelly niche that ended up having a road leading up to an eventual trail. I could tell it wasn't directly for the trails and almost more of a bike trail. But eventually as I scouted out .. I found the trails and the road that would lead to them. so let's make it a boost later when I actually get to experience those trails. Also.. lots of dog poop.. locals or travelers are not being good about the dog poop.. please... Clean up your mess.. 1- Parking- so a lot of the maps don't necessarily do in the right direction and some of the entryways are for the water plant.. so it throughout the navigation quite a bit. However once you do find the area to park there is a good amount of parking even off to the side of the street. 2- the trials .. so I didn't get to experience the actual trails I'm more or less got to experience some of the off trails from this park. they did have a really nice recreational area for families to go and lots of spacing and benches to eat and hang out so it would be an awesome place to take food and chill. The hikes did look challenging.. so these won't be like some of the others I did.. the incline looked like I was going to have fun and be challenged. 3- the people- most people were maintaining their distance and wearing masks. I have one that I pull up and pull down based upon who's around. the recreational everyone was evenly spaced out and keeping to small groups. The portion of the hike that we ended up doing was very steep but there were in a lot of people so we didn't really run into too many hikers. The other side of the canyon where there was more people would if gave me more of that experience. All in all I'll be back.. and hopefully I can return with some updated news about the trails and everything else. read more

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I had sooo much fun with my family and would definitely do it again. It is covered with beautiful plants, and the pond is full of beautiful fish. It was one of my favorite hikes l have ever been on. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone who wants to go on a hike. read more

Went here for the first time with a friend and its a rather easy hike with nice views and windy areas. When you reach the top, you are greeted with a nice theatrical set up and an area for a picnic. If you dont want to hike all the way to get to those areas, you can just park at the top of the hill which i think is called the Tree People Trail. When you start off at the bottom of the trail, there is ample parking and some designated EV parking spots. There is also a restroom for for both male and female. read more

What drew me here was the lake. I recently went to Yellowstone and I swear entering the parking lot reminded me of YNP (which was nice). I wasn't sure what I was getting into if there was a hike within the lake or the hike was away from the lake. I went around the lake which has a trail around it, about 20 minutes. It's not necessarily a hike, but a scenic walk. There is also a duck pond and they LOVE it when a car parks because they immediately head towards it. If you have kids, they'll love it. After the beautiful lake I did a hike trail. The pathway was narrow and a one way in, one way out trail that leads to a fence. I have to try out the other trails here next visits. read more

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A park in a canyon, in the hills between the LA Basin (Beverly Hills), and the San Fernando Valley (Sherman Oaks/Studio City). If you're looking for a dose of nature and/or a few hills to climb up and down, this is a pleasant park. Bring bug spray. read more

Franklin Canyon Park in Beverly Hills is a great outdoor space located in the heart of Los Angeles for all ages whether it's walking, hiking or just getting outdoors. There are trails for all levels, a goldfish pond and I believe even some outdoor event space by the center. (Word of caution, follow the street signs to the letter. If there is a stop sign, don't roll through it as there are cameras hidden in the trees that will catch you and trust me, that $100 ticket is no fun). I came this time to hike the Hastain Trail located closer to the Beverly Hills entrance. If you're coming in from Coldwater Canyon Blvd, you'll need to drive a good distance toward the Beverly Hills side before seeing the trail head. Don't follow Google Maps, as it'll take you to a street off of Coldwater Canyon Blvd, and I'm not certain you'll be able to access the trail or park on that street. However, from Franklin Canyon Park you are able to access the trail head. The trail itself is mostly dirt path with some rocky sections, but nothing too technical. The trail itself is technically a loop and most have suggested that you take the loop in the clockwise direction as the initial ascend is at a 40% grade, which is quite steep for a descend and can be dangerous if you don't have the right shoes or equipment. If you do choose to take the trail in the counterclockwise direction, walking sticks are highly recommended...or you can do what I did and take it out and back. The counterclockwise direction is still a decent ascend, but not as bad as a 40% grade and once you get to the summit you are rewarded some some fantastic views of Beverly Hills, Century City, Santa Monica and DTLA. If you take the last little stretch all the way to the end, you can actually see both the valley and the westside and get some really nice views of some fantastic architecture. Just remember, if you plan on taking the loop down in the counterclockwise direction, go with someone and take your time as it can get dangerous. read more

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I have been enjoying exploring new places to enjoy hiking where areas are not so crowded still and this is most definitely a place to come! Came on a Saturday arrived at 9 there were several folks here already but this spot is huge so all I seen were the vehicles parked and seldomly ran onto others along the trails. Which I might add when I did they were ever so friendly. Dog friendly was the big plus for me here and anywhere I can take my furball as he has hiked with me his entire life. Benches are here a few nicely hidden with multiple of shade from the beautiful Redwood trees. No doubt LA is a busy city, but you can still find calm within the chaos at Franklin Canyon Park. This 605-acre park is tucked into a canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains in Beverly Hills and has a number of trails that allow Angelinos to escape for a couple hours of exercise in nature. I enjoyed finding this trail that was suggested hike up Ranch Trail, begin from a small parking area at the intersection of Franklin Canyon Drive and Lake Drive and set out east up a flight of wooden steps. Ascend a draw in the side of the canyon carved out by a seasonal stream. This lush debut gives the hike an enchanting start, but the vegetation becomes less verdant as you proceed up the canyon. Ran across a lil that I thought was so adorable and cute I just had to take a break from the views and hike sat and relaxed a bit. read more

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This is a wonderful park to go on a hike or have a picnic. There are plenty of tables and benches to take a break, have a quick bite, or enjoy the scenery. You might see a few ducks too. I have been here several times with my boyfriend and seen ducks on the lake. The only downside is there are areas where there are quite a bit pf mosquitos. I've seen bees too but not too many. read more

Franklin Canyon Park - A small waterfall out of many throughout the park. - Parks Near Me - Beverly Hills, California

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Franklin Canyon Park is in The hills of BH and extends to the Santa Monica Mountains, which it is part of. This is a very scenic park with wildlife, walking hiking paths, a lake, a running stream, and it's about a 5-10 mins drive from Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. A great mini getaway and feel nature within the city. So many rules are enforced here and this park is heavily monitored via camera and park patrol personnel, who are fond of issuing tickets! It's a bit to a challenge finding the right road to get here. Also, once here in the park it's poor cell reception. And make sure you read the posted park hours signs, gates close as noted. This park is a great place to visit and I highly recommend it. read more

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We love this park! It is my friend favorite place to spend the Thanksgiving day. It is her traditional for years. My husband blow up his mind when he discovered The Andy Griffin Show beginning was shot there. It is perfect place for picnic with family, friends and go with dogs. I like to go in Fall and Winter. Also, try to get in one entrance and go out in the another entrance. You will have a big surprise. There is a open theater in the park! Isn't cool? You can get marry there, but it is a little expensive.... We tried it. $400 to use the park and $100 for each 10 guests. Not for us! Go there and enjoy the sunny day. read more

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I have never given a park less than 5 stars!! Here's why Free parking or if you don't make a complete stop it'll be a $100 ticket. There are signs, but it's unclear as to how long you actually have to stop for. Many people on yelp said they got a ticket!! There is a hidden camera (looks like a trash can) In order to avoid getting a crazy $100 ticket, avoid this place or be sure to stop at the stop sign (count to 10 or to be really safe count to 20!!) I mean it sounds crazy, but it's better than getting a ticket. Nice little lake (less than 1 mile loop) or if you are feeling adventurous you can take a scenic route and it'll take you to the views of the city!! read more

Franklin Canyon Park - Parks Near Me - Beverly Hills, California

I was watching an old Huel Howser show and wanted to see whether this lake was as beautiful as shown on television. Well, the lake was in the heart of and actually the center of Los Angeles, but surrounded by Beverly Hills. This is the proverbial "oasis" among the concrete jungle of Los Angeles, with plenty of hiking areas, picnic tables, and streams for children and adults alike to enjoy. The park itself was being cleaned up of debris, fallen trees and other debris, possibly for fire prevention. This time around, we just cruised the lake to become acquainted with the lake and would love to walk the perimeter on a nice fall day. It seems this lake if owned by the LADWP, which makes sense, as there were plenty of their vehicles there as crews were working on a Sunday. I truly recommend coming here, if you want a quick vacation away from City life. read more

Franklin Canyon Park - Lakeview - Parks Near Me - Beverly Hills, California

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Nice and relaxing hike with lots of shade and places you can sit and relax too. Lots of things you can explore and look at. Very different from my usual Hiking Adventure. Had a great time with my kids. read more

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Beautiful scenery, dog friendly, family friendly walking trails. While walking this trail you'll spot all sorts of animals ducks, turtles, frogs, and lizards. Fun walking trail, troublesome getting out of the park. read more

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My friend and I love this hike! Lots of shady areas. We entered from the Coldwater & Mulholland entrance there's parking at various spots. Make sure to do a complete stop at the stop signs. They do have cameras and give tickets. I didn't get one, but my friend did. My gf and I walked around the reservoir to warm up, and then we go to the Franklin Canyon park trail. Walked down towards Beverly Hills to take the trail going up, it's quite steep, but not too treacherous. Next time, we'll fork to the the right and do the Hastain trail. It took us 3 hours, because we stopped to use the loo, and took in the breathtaking scenery. I believe this was where the site of the Andy Griffith Show was filmed. read more

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We had heard stories of a lake or reservoir in the hills or off Mulhulland years ago. Today was an amazing day to visit. Great to see the ducks and turtles up so close. They didn't seem to be bothered by people interacting with them. We did not feed them and hopefully no one else did either. The park instructs you not to. The walk around the lake was great though the lake does not seem equipped to handle a large influx of people. We were fine especially considering we enjoy the quaint feeling. There were lots of families around many picnicing and allowing kids to explore. It's a great family outing. The Spanish house, duck/turtle pond, the bridge to the turtle/coy fish pond and views are worth every second. I would have liked to see a park employee presence at some point (injuries, safety, a quick hi) but I always felt safe and comfortable. read more

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Don't come here lol. The ticket rumors are true and now they're harassing me. Despite stopping for 15 seconds to avoid this ticket maybe I didn't apply the "Mississippi" rule because I now owe $110.00 the lake is cool but wow how disappointing to ticket people potentially trying to do something free for fun. To alleviate depression lol........... this park sux. read more

Franklin Canyon Park - I made sure to stop before reading the reviews but alas it wasn't long enough lol go to Griffith park y'all.. - Parks Near Me - Beverly Hills, California