When you arrive parking is plentiful along the borders of the park or in the parking spaces. I love coming to this park for dog training and for spending time with my dog allowing her to sniff and run on an extended leash (either 30 to 45 feet leash). The great thing about this park is that there is a sidewalk to walk on to walk the perimeter of the lake, or there are many areas of large green fields that surround the park. I have seen other dogs off leash, and normally this gives me great hesitation, but in a large park like this, you can be far enough distance away from everyone else and their dogs to avoid them. Now that it's spring, everything is blossoming and blooming, but be careful, when I was here the grass had not yet been mown, and there are so many foxtails growing right now. So many got caught in my shoes and thankfully I checked my dog's body completely and her feet and none had stuck to her. When things are mown it's great but also beware of the ants. When I was on the side of the park that has the football field sized grass area, I was watching my dog sniff and play and suddenly I felt something biting me. I looked down and dozens of red ants were climbing me from the dirt. I must have mistakenly stood on an ant mound. Thirdly, just also keep aware of coyotes, I have seen a coyote several times at Lake Balboa and they do not seem fearful whatsoever and they are just walking around casually in the middle of the day. This park is a true gem because of how beautiful and serene it makes life feel. There are people fishing in the lake, walkers, runners, people relaxing on benches reading, friends playing cards, birthday parties or other events, people bicycling or skateboarding. I love this park. read more

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It's one of those places that feels like a mini escape without having to leave LA. The lake is beautiful, especially in the mornings and around sunset, and the walking path around it is perfect for a chill stroll, jog, or bike ride. There's always a good mix of people here families, couples, dog walkers, and folks just trying to get some fresh air. The park is spacious, well-maintained, and surprisingly peaceful considering how central it is. Plenty of picnic tables, grassy areas to relax, and spots to just sit and people-watch. The ducks and birds add to the whole vibe. Parking is usually easy, which is a huge plus, and the restrooms are decent for a public park. On weekends it can get busy, but it never feels overwhelming because there's so much space. Whether you're looking for a quick walk, a picnic date, or a calm place to clear your head, Lake Balboa is a solid go-to. Definitely one of my favorite outdoor spots in the Valley. read more

What a great park. Balboa park is a relaxing park to take your family to spend time at. There is so much to do for the family. You can go fishing there you can rent little peddle boats to ride in the lake you can also rent kayaks and also bicycles for the family to ride around the park. The park it self is huge you can go on a long walk or for a jog. People ride their bikes and scooters on the path ways. Or you can just hang out and grill there as well. Its a super chill place to go kick back and enjoy. read more

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Lake Balboa park or just Balboa Park as locals call it, is one of my favorite parks in the San Fernando Valley. It's a large, well-kept recreational area in the Sepulveda Basin with a beautiful lake for fishing and pedal boating, plus tons of walking and biking paths. You'll always see people walking their dogs, having BBQs, celebrating kids' birthdays, or just enjoying the outdoors. This park means a lot to me because it's been around for as long as I can remember. I grew up coming here with my family, and now as an adult, I still come back regularly--mostly to get a solid run in. I usually do about a 5-mile loop around the park and nearby streets along Woodley, Burbank, Balboa, and Victory. It's especially nice in the spring when the cherry blossoms are blooming. Overall, it's a classic Valley spot and a great place for all ages. read more

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Such a beautiful park to enjoy nature; from stunning mountain scenery to a beautiful lake which provides habitat to exceptional wildlife including mallards, geese, pelicans, herons, and coots. There is a paved path around the lake which makes this one of my favorite places to enjoy a leisurely walk especially in springtime when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. read more

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First time I went, I went to go meet up with a photographer who was going to help me learn to use a camera and I said, to myself, I gotta come back here with my family, so I did. I went on a weekday and found peace there even though there were people there, I think they went to for the same reason, but on the weekends it get packed. I would give it a 5 but the bathrooms aren't that clean. Otherwise it's a nice place. read more

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Love it you can find here all you need. Big lake, trails, kids playgrounds. You can also have a picnic or buy something in park markets. A lot of parking spaces read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

Beautiful, clean park that offers something for all ages. Was surprised people fish there. The lake is just over a mile and a leisurely stroll. Also has hiking and biking trails. Bikes and swan paddle boats can be rented. The lovely roofed benches adorned with twisting branches and lavender-colored blooms enhance this respite feel from the city. The bathrooms are clean and well maintained. I saw garbage on the ground with a trash can nearby- show some respect, not indifference! I saw minimal graffiti around the lake. There can be a lot of duck feces on the walking path. Bigger cherry blossom trees are on the car path as you enter the park. read more

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Spacious park with lots of trails to walk dogs, run or bike. There's some wildlife (ducks and geese) to watch and some fish in the lake to catch if you bring your fishing poles. Parking is available at the front entrance before crossing the bridge, next to the lake and lots of "street" parking inside. There's a kids playground and lots of picnic tables or lots of lawn space to have a picnic, restrooms and recreational activities like renting a paddle boat (swan shaped) or even kayak lessons! read more

One of the best parks in the area. A lot to do and overall a place evey local need to know. The kids will love it. A lot. So why 3 stars? I must say that it is not as safe as it used to be. Many shady people started to hang here, and it makes the place feels less safe. read more

It was a beautiful day for a walk. Portions of the path were a little muddy and some areas were flooded due to the recent rains. But we didn't mind at all. Enjoyed this walk very much read more

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When you're in the sprawling metropolis of L.A. you crave serene open parks like Lake Balboa. It's a great place to go walking, ride a bike, rent a paddle boat or have a picnic. You'll see people walking their dogs, taking their kids to the playground or going for a run. There are plenty of benches and spots to relax. The lake is full of ducks and other water birds. The only thing I didn't love were all of the pesky gnats! There were some vendors around but I didn't look too closely at what they were selling. If I lived here I'd take walks here to escape suburbia and enjoy nature. read more

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Such a beautiful park with so many things in nature to admire. I love coming here just to walk around or visit some food trucks that are there. There are restrooms and so many things to do. They offer Swan boats that you can take out onto the lake. read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - ducks - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

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So so beautiful. I absolutely LOVE this park. But please please please something needs to be done about the homeless. This is getting BAD. read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

It's spring and it's blooming seasons. The wisteria are starting come into full blooms which makes a beautiful walk around the lake. I also noticed that there were loads of new trees planted in the front entrance grassy knoll area. The park is green from all the rain we've received so enjoy it now before it gets too hot and all dried up. I didn't see much of any new duckling this year. They tend to always have the around in the lake but none so far. Still a nice place for a picnic, exercise, fishing or a quality time with family. read more

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good place to go with family to spend a day my kids enjoyed the boat paddling at lake and also like eating corn read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - kids enjoying - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

The unspoken Echo Park. This park is so underrated and not ever talked about which is a shame because this park is a great place to retreat, bbq, picnic, or just be outside. So much green open field area to picnic, run, and walk. It's probably the biggest park I have been to. Bike and pedestrian walkways are accessible. I saw many people fly fishing to my surprise and seen a couple of fish jump out of the water. *Duck, geese, pigeon, swan city! Birds everywhere! They are cordial and are not aggressive from what I have observed. *Bike rentals and swan boats are available! *I took off only star because I had a great experience though there are some definite improvements to be made. As an entirety, it is maintained enough but some parts need some TLC (tender loving care) -Trash from vendors, and random hygiene products on the ground. -Bird poop aggregated at a section of flooring that made it unwalkable. ALOT of bird feathers shedding everywhere -Water was beautiful but not clean and saw someone washing themselves by the lake. Lifeguard on duty warned fishermen's that the bacteria in the water is high. -More shading options around the lake would be nice as some benches didn't have shade. I would come here again as the parking is free, the park is wide open, and it's not a far out drive! read more

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Beautiful during the day, scary at night. Pros: fresh water, cute ducks, big playground for children, free parking, walking trails, pretty environment Cons: people blasting loud trashy music, people doing weird things, creeps creeping when it starts getting dark, very dirty bathrooms, not permitted to swim at all read more

Dog-friendly, family-friendly and safe! Great place for walking, fishing, picnics, and bird watching read more

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Love it here! My number one go to spot to hangout, go for a walk, or even have a friend group and a picnic in the park. The grass is always maintained and there's always a place to sit. Plenty of parking. Dog friendly. read more

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This is probably the largest park with more than just a play area and a grass field in the San Fernando valley. It has a lake, where you can see many "duck, duck, goose!" Get it?! Lol, paddle boat rentals, bike rentals, an extensive play area with many games for children to play all day long, food vendors, long paths for walks/jogs, sports field, barbecue pits, picnic tables, and last but not least--restrooms. My least favorite and definitely not the highlight of the park if I must admit I'd rather hold it in than going in there. There is several of them, dirty beach-style looking restrooms with toilet paper that is hard to roll out without it tearing apart. Went in once and never again. It would be awesome if they would remodel them. On the bright side, the park is lively and enjoyable in many ways, which I mentioned above. The ducks are so cute and too friendly/brave enough to follow you around! The lake seems dirty, but they are alive. I hope the water is being cleaned for them. I always see people giving them bread; one thing I also saw my parents do when I was growing up. However, bread does not provide them with any nutritional value and can actually cause them health problems. If you, or anyone you know feeds them bread, you will do them a big favor by switching to oats, rice, corn, peas, lettuce, or spinach because these are actually healthy treats for them. Tip: Go early in the morning if you want to relax or exercise with less people around. It usually gets really packed by noon! Or if you decide to go on a weekend after noon, be ready to expect a full park with people being loud and having fun while eating, playing music, selling goodies, etc. There's plenty of parking around the park, which can become a hassle on the weekends, but I always end up finding a spot. One thing I enjoy the most is renting their surrey and riding it along with my toddler. It's a good workout with a nice view right before sunset. read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Stroller ride a while back. It's always nice to pause and admire the duckies! - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

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Swan boat attack by geese. Saved by my yodeling call that allegedly has the same effects of a siren. Notified nearby Swan boats. Rushed out of there and met king swan that had strikingly similar looks to the ones of Nick Wild from Zootopia. I change my rating to 3.5/10 because Zootopia 2 was life changing. read more

Great park for many things. They have a great walking and bike trail around the lake. Lots of picnic benches and gazebos to hang out and rest with ducks wandering around with you. It's very dog friendly. I love going in the morning to just take a morning walk and relax and reflect and get some "fresh" LA air. They have bicycle rentals and you can even rent swan pedal boats too. read more

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Cute park to walk around. Sometimes there are off leash dogs so be wary. Generally people keep to themselves and so it's a nice place to exercise, walk the dog, and adventure around the trails! read more

I have been coming here for years for a walk and sometimes to have a picnic with the family. There are so many activities you can do here with your family such as riding bikes, renting a swan boat or the pedal bikes. A very nice playground for the kids and many paths to take a long or short walk around the lake. There are ducks in the lake and on a beautiful sunny day you can see the reflection of the blue skies in the lake. Today was very gloomy but still so beautiful to be here. I enjoyed a nice walk and my son and husband rode their bikes. On weekends the parking situation is crazy but I never had an issue during the week. Oh and you can fish here... read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

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Love this park! Great place to spend couple of hours on weekends walking, relaxing and socializing. My son loves feeding ducks and playing at the playground. read more

Really enjoyed coming here, first time and I watch the sunset and it was pretty active. read more

This park is great! It's so big and full of life, very dog friendly and there is plenty of space to do activities. There were birthday parties, cook outs, people fishing and people like me just taking their dog for a walk. I'm adding this to a regular visit for me and my dog. read more

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Lovely park in the SFV to fish, run, bike, and watch ducks. I usually come between 6am to 9am for a morning run. There's plenty of parking at that time. In weekends, especially holiday weekends, it gets packed by 11 with the parking getting full and folks parking on the dirt. For running, I love the multiple route options. Around the lake is about 1.25 miles. Around the tree area can be 2-3 miles. And there is a bike and running trail around the outer perimeter as well. There are a ton of ducks. Sometimes there's a ton of duck poop on the pavement as well. One area of improvement is the restrooms. They are not clean and lately they are flooded from the rains. read more

Lake Balboa is a beautiful place to go..l wish people stop feeding birds and ducks with bread.

Gorgeous park/lake area in the SFV. I love that the stroll around the lake is a nice scenic walk. One of my favorite places I've discovered in the Valley. There are ample parking spaces, many vendors near the park, - it's just a great atmosphere all around! There's Swans to ride too if you desire! read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

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I feel like I chalk this entire area up to one place, although it has a dozen plus names and sections to visit. My review from 2015 is under "Woodley Park", but I never visit Lake Balboa without covering it from what I'd consider to be a full perimeter approach. I've been coming here for ages and rediscovered the area many moons ago when some friends and I were training for an upcoming run, and my sons then high school XC team used the area for some practices. I mainly come here to run and while it's not my top choice for a destination (drive, park, run) area it certainly helps get the job done. I typically run it from Woodley to Burbank, Burbank to Balboa, Balboa to Victory - back to Woodley (approx 5'ish miles or so, one loop) but my son runs it a little differently. We come out here to lap it a few times. I think the most I've done here is 3 laps (becomes redundant and you start to feel like you're on a hamsters wheel) but if I had to use it for a 20-22 mile run I could make it work. Like I said, not my favorite spot but it's nice to have a little variation now and again, you get some dirt, some concrete, and very few stop lights to deal with so it's a nice stretch for non stop running. I dip into other areas of the park at times for short strolls, my sister and I used to come often to enjoy calm, peaceful, quiet bird watching at the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve. If you're into birding, I'm a major bird nerd - bring your binoculars! There's also a golf course, which I probably desperately need to get in some range action at because I haven't swung my clubs in forever. The area has a ton to offer, tennis courts, soccer fields, birding, large water basins, walking/biking paths, you name it. In closing, it's basically one place depending on your mobility. Explore, explore, explore. As covid runs rampant and everyone either has it or is sick, I wouldn't be caught dead working out indoors (I mean other than in my own home) so coming out here before sunrise when it's most tranquil is a great time to get in a workout while keeping safe, getting in a good sweat sesh and being away from people. Parking is abundant and never an issue in any area you wish to start in. read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Before Sunrise, not only a great movie but a good time for an 11.25mile Monday morning jog - hope you weren't asleep (6:42a) - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

Lovely park. Busier than most though because of the location. You can find areas that aren't as busy. My parents decided to peddle on the Swan boats. I surely couldn't because I was too concerned with the lake water splashing on me ... let's just say, there is nothing awesome about the water here LOL Our senior dog had a wonderful stroll. It was peaceful. Happy dogs walking. Ppl getting their exercise in and a few bikers. Some were fishing and signs were posted that it's catch and release which is good since all the birds and ducks need their food. Lots going on in this park. Great spot. Ample parking. read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

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They have -paddle boats(to rent) - bikes (to rent) - clean bathrooms - golf course - picnic tables - fish(fishing permit is required) Cons: I really hate the smell of the lake it gives me a headache The lake is dirty read more

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I've only been here a few times however this is my first time here when the cherry blossoms were blooming. Nice park to take your dogs for a walk or just to enjoy the scenery. read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

Very nice park, bigger size, more European style with alleys to stroll, benches, a lake, cute birds - swans, ducks, etc and nice vegetation. There's a big playground, picnic tables, bike paths. A bit of everything. Restrooms included, sometimes there are vendors if you need a drink or a snack. I've been going to this park for many years, on and off. Sometimes it can be crowded and the parking reflects that, it's harder to get a spot. Even during Covid there were many people for outdoor activities, I tried to social distance. There is a huge need for bigger parks like Lake Balboa in LA area, more greenery, more alleys where everyone can stroll. It's well maintained, perfect for a nice morning or afternoon out! read more

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Amazing place to have a picnic, enjoy some gorgeous LA weather, and play with your fur babies! I would bring my dogs all the time and now I bring my cat. She loves it! The park is very spacious and offers some lovely views of the lake. I've never been on these swan boats but they look so cute! There are also biking trails, playgrounds, vendors, bathrooms, picnic tables, and parking is free and there's a lot of it which is good bc it can get busy on weekends. Overall, this is a GREAT place to visit! My kitty can't wait to go back ;) read more

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park - Parks Near Me - Van Nuys, California

What a beautiful day to enjoy!!! Not so hot and not so cold.. All walks of life... Parking lot is full but we were able to find a spot. read more

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We love this park. 2 big play areas for older and younger kids with soft sand base. Equipment is well maintained. Great food carts on weekend, great for families and bring the pets too. Parking can be challenging but there is ample. I did a Mother's Day picnic set up here by the lake and it was beautiful. Ducks and paddle boats are fun in warmer weather. Large walking trail around lake where kids can skate and ride bikes. A great park with lots of grassy areas and great for parties! read more

I found this place just cruising one day and I have been coming almost every day ever since. The park has it all, a Bike trail, an area to walk/run/jog around the man-made lake, a Golf course, boat rentals, bathrooms, children's play area, baseball court, dirt bike area, people bring their little controller boats to play with at the lake. There are picnic areas too and Sunsets are gorgeous to see from here. The weekends tend to be quite busy but it is still enjoyable to seat on a shaded bench and people watch or just watch the giant ducks and geez haha they are gorgeous. There are some areas that have homeless people but I have never been bothered by them and the city workers are always cleaning or patrolling around the park. The Police also patrols around the park so it feels very safe. I prefer to do my runs very early because there are areas on the running path that has no shade and it tends to get quite hot over here but running the inside trail and one side of the sidewalks outside is about 8k. I started running only 5k here but now I am up to 10k so its a fantastic place to run. read more

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