Angeles National Forest
- Biking
- Camping
- Fire Lookouts/Cabins Overnight
- Hiking
- Horse Camping
- Horseback riding
- Off-highway vehicles
- Picnicking
Outdoors
Swimming holes and lakes near Whittier
Lakes, rivers and beaches near Whittier where swimming is allowed on public land.
Good to know: Most natural swimming areas have no lifeguard; check water-quality advisories and current conditions before swimming.
Within 30 miles (2)
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
30 to 75 miles (2)
Mountain Oak
Escape to Mountain Oak Campground in the Angeles National Forest for a restful, refreshing getaway from city life.
- Biking
- Birding
- Boating
- Camping
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
San Bernardino National Forest
- Biking
- Camping
- Climbing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horse Camping
- Horseback riding
- Hunting
75 miles and farther (1)
Sand to Snow National Monument
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.
- Accessible Swimming
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Photography
- Wildlife viewing
- Winter sports
Distances are straight-line miles from downtown Whittier. 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 Whittier
Questions
Where is the closest place for swimming near Whittier?
Angeles National Forest (USDA Forest Service), about 13 miles north of Whittier as the crow flies. Next are Deer Group Camp (27 mi) and Mountain Oak (34 mi).
When is the best time for swimming near Whittier?
Based on Whittier’s average highs, May–October. Conditions at higher elevations can be much cooler.
Who manages these places?
Federal agencies including USDA Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.