THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Regional Park · CA

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park is a popular Southern California recreation area centered around a large reservoir, offering diverse outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, camping, and water sports.

Regional Park12604+ Trails

Designation

Regional Park

Total Wilderness Area

1260

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park is a popular Southern California recreation area centered around a large reservoir, offering diverse outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, camping, and water sports.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park is located in San Dimas, California, within the San Gabriel Valley. The park encompasses several hundred acres surrounding Puddingstone Reservoir, a man-made lake that serves as the centerpiece for recreational activities. The park features a variety of ecosystems including chaparral-covered hills, riparian zones along the reservoir, and open grassy areas. Established in 1925 and named after Frank G. Bonelli, a former Los Angeles County Supervisor, the park has developed into a multi-use outdoor destination. Visitors can engage in freshwater fishing for bass and catfish, boating and paddle sports on Puddingstone Reservoir, and mountain biking on trails cutting through the adjacent hills. The park also includes multiple picnic areas, playgrounds, and a large campground with both tent and RV sites. Wildlife in the park includes species typical of Southern California chaparral habitats, such as quail, hawks, and occasionally deer. The area provides an accessible natural escape close to the Los Angeles metropolitan area, appealing to families, anglers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park is also home to the Bonelli Equestrian Center and hosts various events, including fishing tournaments and trail runs. The park’s combination of water and upland activities along with developed facilities makes it a year-round outdoor destination with attractions that appeal to a broad audience.

Field Guide · Regional Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

The Enchantment of Fish Canyon Falls★ 8.2⌖ 7 miHiking
Fish Canyon Falls

The Enchantment of Fish Canyon Falls

Explore Fish Canyon Falls near Duarte, CA, a moderate hike to a stunning three-tiered waterfall. Best visited during spring for a full waterfall experience. Popular activities include photography and picnicking.

Majestic Heights of Iron Mountain★ 8.4⌖ 14 miHiking
Iron Mountain

Majestic Heights of Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain in Southern California is a challenging hike with rewarding views. Known for steep trails, it offers breathtaking panoramic vistas. Best visited in spring or fall, it caters to adventure seekers looking for a tough climb.

Mount Wilson: A Scenic Gem of Southern California★ 8.5⌖ 16 miHiking
Mount Wilson

Mount Wilson: A Scenic Gem of Southern California

Explore Mount Wilson, a beautiful historical destination with trails and observatory tours in Southern California's Angeles National Forest. Ideal for families and hikers, enjoy stunning views and cool temps year-round.

Snow-Capped Splendor: Mt Baldy Trailhead★ 8.8⌖ 16 miHiking
Mt Baldy Trailhead

Snow-Capped Splendor: Mt Baldy Trailhead

Explore the Mt Baldy Trailhead in the San Gabriel Mountains. A challenging 6-10 hour hike to the summit with stunning views. Ideal for hiking, snow sports, and rock climbing. Best visited in spring and fall. Not accessible for wheelchairs.

Nature's Retreat: Angeles National Forest★ 8.4⌖ 18 miHiking
Angeles National Forest

Nature's Retreat: Angeles National Forest

Explore Angeles National Forest near Los Angeles, CA. Known for its high peaks and diverse trails, including the challenging Mount Baldy. Enjoy year-round hiking and breathtaking views, with busy summer seasons.

Discover Fresno Canyon Trail★ 7.2⌖ 18 miHiking
Fresno Canyon Trail

Discover Fresno Canyon Trail

Explore Fresno Canyon Trail, located near Corona, CA. This moderate trail offers hiking and wildlife watching with scenic views of the canyon. Perfect for family outings, it's best visited in spring and fall when it's less crowded.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Puddingstone Reservoir — popular for boating, fishing, and paddle sports✦ Bonelli Equestrian Center — comprehensive horse-riding facilities and trails✦ Scenic hiking and mountain biking trails with views of the San Gabriel Mountains✦ Waterfront picnic and camping areas offering excellent family recreation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Equestrian Activities

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fees apply for vehicle entry; camping requires reservations and fees; no permits required for fishing but a California fishing license is necessary.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park Campground

Campground adjacent to Puddingstone Reservoir offering tent and RV sites with access to restrooms and picnic facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

San Dimas
⌖ 1.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Dimas, California

A gateway to San Gabriel Mountains adventures offering hiking, biking, and easy access to outdoor escapes close to Los Angeles.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Glendora
⌖ 3.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glendora, California

A gateway to the San Gabriel Mountains offering diverse outdoor recreation with a friendly, suburban vibe and quick access to rugged trails and nature escapes.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Covina
⌖ 4.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Covina, California

A suburban gateway to Southern California’s outdoor playground with nearby hiking and biking spots, combining urban comfort with quick access to natural escapes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Pomona
⌖ 5.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pomona, California

An urban gateway to diverse outdoor adventures combining Southern California’s mild climate with nearby mountains, parks, and waterways.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Diamond Bar
⌖ 5.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Diamond Bar, California

A suburban hub offering accessible outdoor activities with a focus on hiking, biking, and nature exploration in a warm Southern California climate.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Azusa
⌖ 5.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Azusa, California

A gateway to the San Gabriel Mountains offering rugged hiking, rock climbing, and river activities with easy access to wild terrain and wilderness areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.