Whittier Narrows Dam
This project is managed by Los Angeles County Parks and the City of Pico Rivera. Whittier Narrows has no permanent pool.
- Biking
- Boating
- Horseback riding
- Picnicking
- Water sports
- Wildlife viewing
Outdoors
Boating and kayaking near Torrance
Lakes, reservoirs and rivers near Torrance for boating, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.
Good to know: Life jackets are required for children on most waters, and many lakes require an invasive-species inspection or a launch fee.
Within 30 miles (4)
Sepulveda Dam
The Sepulveda Dam's recreation facilities are managed by the City of Los Angeles Parks.
- Biking
- Boating
- Picnicking
- Water sports
- Wildlife viewing
Hansen Dam
The City of Los Angeles manages the extensive day-use facilities, including golf and riding stables, are available at this site in the San Fernando Valley.
- Boating
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Picnicking
- Water sports
- Wildlife viewing
Santa Fe Dam
Facilities at Santa Fe are operated by Los Angeles County Parks. Swimming, fishing, non-power boating, hiking and picnicking are available. Of interest are the five distinct biological communities within the area.
- Boating
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Water sports
- Wildlife viewing
30 to 75 miles (4)
Prado Dam
This San Bernardino County Parks managed area is an oasis within one of the fastest growing areas of Southern California. Riverside County and the City of Corona also provide recreation facilities.
- Boating
- Camping
- Horseback riding
- Picnicking
- Water sports
- Wildlife viewing
Deer Group Camp
Deer Group Campground is a great place to bring an extended family or large group.
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Water sports
Santa Barbara Island
Once visitors have scaled the rugged cliffs using the steep trail from the Landing Cove, they will be rewarded with a campground perched on the bluffs with magnificent coastal views.
- Birding
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Guided Interpretive Walks
- Hiking
- Information Site
- Photography
Lake Casitas
Lake Casitas is formed by Casitas Dam , which is a feature of the Ventura Project . Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers one of the nations best bass fishing areas.
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Nature education
- Picnicking
- Ranger programs
75 miles and farther (2)
Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park encompasses five remarkable islands and their ocean environment, preserving and protecting a wealth of natural and cultural resources.
- Boating
- Camping
- Diving
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Paddling
- Picnicking
- Snorkeling
Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary
The waters that swirl around the five islands within Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary create a special place for several species of plants and animals.
- Boating
- Diving
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Paddling
- Photography
- Ranger programs
- Snorkeling
Distances are straight-line miles from downtown Torrance. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.
More outdoors near Torrance
- Hiking near Torrance
- Camping near Torrance
- Fishing near Torrance
- Biking and mountain biking near Torrance
- Picnic spots near Torrance
- Horseback riding near Torrance
- Wildlife viewing and birding near Torrance
- Swimming holes and lakes near Torrance
- Off-roading and OHV areas near Torrance
- Parks in Torrance
- Day trips
- Weather by month
Questions
Where is the closest place for boating & paddling near Torrance?
Whittier Narrows Dam (US Army Corps of Engineers), about 21 miles northeast of Torrance as the crow flies. Next are Sepulveda Dam (24 mi) and Hansen Dam (29 mi).
When is the best time for boating & paddling near Torrance?
Based on Torrance’s average highs, all year. Conditions at higher elevations can be much cooler.
Who manages these places?
Federal agencies including US Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, USDA Forest Service. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.