There are more than two dozen local parks in San Diego County, from Fallbrook to Spring Valley, from Solana Beach to Julian. Nearly all of these neighborhood parks offer playgrounds, lawns, and picnic areas. If you’re looking for a place for a small birthday celebration or a casual family outing, one of these local parks may be right for you – and may be right down the street! Each picnic area in the local parks features tables and small barbecues. Remember that availability is only on a first come, first served basis. Go to this page to see a list of our local parks. Note that some of these parks are alcohol free.
While the local parks are popular with residents looking for a casual picnic, nine of our County Parks have special reservable picnic areas for those occasions when you’re planning a larger outdoor gathering. They’re especially popular for company picnics, wedding receptions, or large family reunions. The reservable areas in these parks will accommodate from 50 to 500 people. Each of the areas has tables, benches, and barbecues, and one area in most parks has a covered pavilion with electrical outlets, a serving counter, and a large barbecue stove. Reservations in these parks are available up to a year ahead of time. See below for more information on these special picnic parks.
Now you can visit our day-use availability web pages and find out if that site you want to reserve is available...up to a year in advance! Go to our day-use availability page, find out if the site is available on the date you'd like, and call our reservation desk to reserve it. It couldn't be easier.
Dos Picos
Three reservable areas on 78 oak-studded acres surrounded by steep, boulder-strewn slopes.
El Monte
Seven reservable grassy areas in this popular 98-acre park.
Felicita
Seven reservable areas on 53 acres of dense oak groves and grassy play area.
Flinn Springs
Three reservable areas plus three small group areas on 40 acres.
Guajome
Conveniently located 40 miles north of San Diego, bordering Oceanside, this park offers an on-site pavilion.
Lake Morena
The most remote of the city’s reservoir, Lake Morena offers an on-site pavilion.
Lincoln Acres
Offers an on-site community center.
Louis Stelzer
The oak-shaded picnic area in this 340-acre park features a bbq grill, benches, and a lawn.
Old Ironsides
Offers an on-site community center.
Otay Lakes
One reservable area with a spectacular view of Lower Otay Lake highlights this 78-acre park in the South Bay.
Pine Valley
Three reservable areas on 17 acres featuring tall pines and ancient oaks.
Potrero
Grassy meadows and hundreds of oaks enhance the reservable picnic area on 115 acres.
San Dieguito
Only minutes from the ocean are the four reservable areas in this 125-acre park.
Sweetwater
This 540-acre regional park offers an on-site pavilion.
Tijuana River Valley
Nearly 1700 acres of diverse habitats, sports facilities, a bird and butterfly garden, and even a community garden are features of this regional park.
William Heise
More than 900-acres within its boundaries, this park offers one picnic area and a wedding tree.
If you would like to receive an e-mail from us advising you of when the latest issue of the Activity and Program Guide is available, please send your e-mail address to: askparks.lue@sdcounty.ca.gov
