Franklin Canyon Park - Image 1
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Franklin Canyon Park

4.6
·2k reviews·Beverly Hills, United States

A serene 605-acre oasis in Beverly Hills, offering tranquil lakes, abundant wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Franklin Canyon Park - Image 1

Franklin Canyon Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 605-acre oasis in Beverly Hills, offering tranquil lakes, abundant wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Franklin Canyon feels like a secret nature escape in the middle of the city."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Boots with good traction are recommended.

🐶 Leashed dogs welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Franklin Canyon Lake

Franklin Canyon Lake

Upper Franklin Reservoir

A serene, three-acre lake offering a peaceful escape with abundant wildlife.

Duck Pond & Wildlife

Duck Pond & Wildlife

Heavenly Pond

Home to numerous turtles, koi, and ducks, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Various trailheads

Over five miles of trails wind through oak woodlands, perfect for a refreshing hike.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Parking

Franklin Canyon Park is a beloved spot, so arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag free parking. Some visitors recommend parking on the baseline if the main lot is full, but be prepared for steep, potentially slippery terrain. TikTokReddit

Visitor Center Status

While the park grounds are always accessible, the visitor center has experienced funding shortages and may be closed. Check ahead if you were hoping to access its facilities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Good for picnics & family
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Franklin Canyon Park 2600 Franklin canyon drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 #oasis #hiddengem #explore #losangeles #hike #lake #serene
@didi14310
71.5K likes • 536.4K views

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Boots with good traction are recommended. Reddit

🐶 Leashed dogs welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure! TikTokReddit

#franklincanyon #beverlyhills #losangeles #koi #koifish #PerfectAsIAm #SuperlativeSmiles #HikingSzn
@mkirk0
61.2K likes • 725K views
📍 Franklin Canyon Lake | Details👇 Discovering the tranquility of this charming park in Beverly Hills - the perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon by the lake! 🦢🌿 Franklin Canyon Lake 4.6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (1,872) 2600 Franklin Canyon Dr Beverly Hills, CA Don’t forget to follow @placestovisitincalifornia to find your next place to visit or stay in California! ➡️ Planning a road trip? Get your FREE Dow...
placestovisitincalifornia
756 likes • 26.1K views

🚗 Free parking available

A rare perk in LA! Arrive early for the best spots. TikTokReddit

📸 Capture the serenity

This hidden oasis is perfect for nature photography. Instagram+1

Hidden gem of the week: Franklin Canyon Park ⛰️🌲🦆 This may look like an alpine lake, but Upper Franklin Reservoir and its adjacent duck pond are hiding in the center of L.A. Part of a larger @mrcaparks area, you’ll find the upper reservoir just off Mulholland Drive, south of Studio City (and a ways north of Beverly Hills). The park is open daily from 7am to sunset. #timeoutla #lagram #la
timeoutla
8.2K likes • 226.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Boots with good traction are recommended. Reddit

🐶 Leashed dogs welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the adventure! TikTokReddit

🚗 Free parking available

A rare perk in LA! Arrive early for the best spots. TikTokReddit

📸 Capture the serenity

This hidden oasis is perfect for nature photography. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Franklin Canyon Park's serene atmosphere and natural beauty, calling it a 'secret nature escape' in the heart of LA. The free parking and abundant wildlife, including ducks, turtles, and koi, are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the park's grounds are well-maintained and offer lovely trails and picnic spots, some note that the visitor center has been closed due to funding shortages.

"Really enjoyed that terrain. Unfortunately, the visitor center has been closed with funding shortages, but the grounds are marvelous. The water is lovely and there are ducks and turtles and Koi in the pond as well as wonderful old growth trees."

jo Cobbett

"Went here on a Saturday in April. Saw a video on ig posted by the tannr guy and had to check it out. We didn’t know where to park but we parked on the side at the baseline. It was pretty steep and I would recommend boots with traction. We slipped a few times. There were signs that said leashed dog friendly."

Gwen Davis

"Ended up at this park just from driving around after having a great lunch at the hideaway in Beverly hills, it was really nice, we unloaded the bikes rode around for about 1 hour had a blast"

Efren Ramirez

What People Like

Peaceful lake and pond
Abundant wildlife
Free parking

What People Dislike

Visitor center closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Franklin Canyon Park is located at 2600 Franklin Canyon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. While the north entrance off Mulholland Drive has been closed to vehicles due to erosion, you can access the park via the Beverly Hills entrance. TikTokInstagram Parking is free, but can fill up quickly on weekends. TikTokReddit

Yes, Franklin Canyon Park offers free parking. However, it's a popular spot, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is advised. If the main lot is full, some visitors have parked on the baseline, but be prepared for steep terrain. TikTokReddit

Yes, biking is a popular activity at Franklin Canyon Park. Visitors have enjoyed riding bikes around the park for hours. Reddit

Information on public transport access is limited, but given its location, it's likely best accessed by car. TikTokInstagram

The park is generally open daily from 7 am to sunset. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Franklin Canyon Park is free to enter and offers free parking, making it an accessible natural escape. TikTokReddit

There are no entrance fees for Franklin Canyon Park. TikTokReddit

The visitor center has faced funding issues and may be closed. It's advisable to check its status before your visit if you plan to use its facilities. Reddit

Yes, dogs are allowed in Franklin Canyon Park as long as they are kept on a leash. TikTokReddit

Franklin Canyon Park is typically open from 7 AM until sunset. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking on over five miles of trails, picnicking in designated areas, observing wildlife like ducks, turtles, and koi at the lake and pond, and exploring the nature center. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Yes, Franklin Canyon Park offers several easy trails perfect for a short, refreshing hike, suitable for various fitness levels. Reddit

Visitors often spot ducks, turtles, and koi in the lake and pond. Deer have also been seen in the park. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The serene lake, abundant wildlife, and beautiful oak woodlands make it a fantastic spot for nature photography. Instagram+1

Yes, the park has numerous picnic areas and is a popular spot for picnicking, offering a beautiful natural setting. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants within Franklin Canyon Park itself. However, it's conveniently located near Beverly Hills, where you can find many dining options. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Reddit

Franklin Canyon Park has many picnic areas equipped with tables, making it ideal for a day out. Reddit

Information about a cafe or snack bar is not readily available, and the visitor center may be closed. It's best to bring your own refreshments. Reddit

After visiting the park, you can find great lunch spots in Beverly Hills, such as The Hideaway. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Franklin Canyon Lake and the duck pond are particularly picturesque. The oak woodlands also offer beautiful backdrops for nature photography. Instagram+1

Yes, with ducks, turtles, and koi in the water, and the possibility of seeing deer, it's a great location for wildlife photography. InstagramReddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow. TikTok

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with the park authorities or the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) for current drone policies. Instagram

Franklin Canyon Park has been used as a filming location for productions like 'American Horror Story 1984'. For commercial filming, permits are likely required. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Franklin Canyon Park is a fantastic destination for families. The duck pond and lake are a huge hit with children, offering endless fascination with the ducks, turtles, and koi. Instagram The park's easy trails are perfect for little legs, and the picnic areas provide a great spot for a family meal amidst nature. Reddit Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited. Leashed dogs are also welcome, making it a fun outing for the whole family, including furry members! TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

With over five miles of trails winding through oak woodlands and around the serene lake, Franklin Canyon Park is a haven for hikers. The loop around the reservoir is a popular choice for a moderate walk, while other trails offer more challenging terrain. TikTokReddit The park's natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and the feeling of being in a secluded oasis make it a rewarding experience for anyone looking to connect with nature. Instagram Don't forget sturdy footwear, as some paths can be steep and slippery. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Franklin Canyon Park offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The tranquil Franklin Lake and the lively duck pond are prime subjects, especially during the golden hours of morning and late afternoon. Instagram+1 Capture the diverse wildlife, from the colorful koi to the basking turtles, or focus on the textures and light filtering through the oak woodlands. Instagram The park's serene atmosphere and natural beauty provide a perfect canvas for both landscape and wildlife photography. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Franklin Canyon Park

Franklin Canyon Park boasts over five miles of well-maintained hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. The most popular route circles the Upper Franklin Reservoir, offering a relatively flat and accessible path perfect for a leisurely stroll or a short hike. TikTok For those seeking a bit more challenge, trails branch off into the surrounding oak woodlands, providing opportunities for more vigorous treks. Instagram Many visitors appreciate the variety, noting that you can enjoy a quick walk or a longer exploration depending on your time and energy. Reddit

Some trails can be steep and require good traction, especially if you venture off the main reservoir loop. Reddit It's worth noting that the park has been used as a filming location, adding a layer of pop culture interest for some visitors. TikTok Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk by the water or a more adventurous hike, Franklin Canyon Park's trail system offers a rewarding experience for all. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters at Franklin Canyon

One of the most charming aspects of Franklin Canyon Park is its abundant wildlife. The Upper Franklin Reservoir and the adjacent Heavenly Pond are teeming with life. Visitors frequently report seeing numerous ducks gliding across the water, turtles basking on logs, and vibrant koi fish swimming in the shallows. InstagramReddit The presence of these creatures adds a dynamic and engaging element to the park's serene atmosphere, making it a delight for families and nature enthusiasts alike. TikTok

Beyond the aquatic life, the park's oak woodlands are also home to various species. While less commonly seen, deer have been spotted within the park, offering a delightful surprise for lucky visitors. Reddit The natural setting provides a sanctuary for these animals, allowing them to thrive amidst the urban sprawl. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behaviors and health. Instagram

Franklin Canyon Park: A Filming Location Gem

For fans of film and television, Franklin Canyon Park holds a special allure as it has served as a backdrop for numerous productions. The picturesque Franklin Lake, also known as the Upper Franklin Reservoir, is particularly recognizable. It was famously used as Camp Redwood in 'American Horror Story 1984' and featured in the opening of 'The Andy Griffith Show'. TikTokInstagram

This cinematic history adds an extra layer of intrigue for visitors who can explore the very locations where iconic scenes were filmed. The park's natural beauty and relatively secluded feel make it an ideal setting for creating atmospheric and memorable on-screen moments. TikTok While enjoying the scenery, you might just find yourself recognizing a spot from your favorite movie or show. Instagram

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