Outdoors
Lakes, rivers and recreation areas near South Gate where fishing is allowed, closest first.
Good to know: Anyone 16 or older generally needs a state fishing license; seasons, limits and special rules vary by water. California license information ↗
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.
Managed by Orange County, there is no permanent pool, but varied facilities such as fishing, picnic areas, a nature trail, and tennis. The site of the historic oil boom town of Olinda. Adjoins Chino Hills State Park.
Crystal Lake is open, however, campsites are no longer available for reservation on Recreation.gov. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Deer Group Campground is a great place to bring an extended family or large group.
Escape to Mountain Oak Campground in the Angeles National Forest for a restful, refreshing getaway from city life.
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.
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.
Distances are straight-line miles from downtown South Gate. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.
Santa Fe Dam (US Army Corps of Engineers), about 17 miles northeast of South Gate as the crow flies. Next are Carbon Canyon Dam (20 mi) and Crystal Lake (33 mi).
Yes, anglers 16 and older generally need a California fishing license from the state wildlife agency. Rules, seasons and limits vary by water.
Federal agencies including USDA Forest Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.