Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

About

Located at 9310 Fanita Pkwy in Santee, California, Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve serves as a prominent local destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The preserve features a series of lakes that provide a scenic backdrop for a variety of activities, including fishing, bird watching, and picnicking. With well-maintained grass areas and extensive walking paths that span several miles, the park offers a convenient space for residents to enjoy a stroll or a bike ride in a setting that many visitors find peaceful and relaxing. The facility also functions as a campground, offering space for RVs and floating cabins, which draws visitors looking for a multi-day getaway. While the park is frequently praised for its clean grounds and family-friendly atmosphere, the experience can vary depending on the time of visit. Weekends and holidays tend to be quite busy, often leading to limited parking and more crowded conditions along the trails and fishing spots. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 1,600 reviews, the preserve remains a significant part of the East County landscape, balancing its role as a recreational hub with the ongoing challenges of maintaining facilities and managing the needs of a diverse community of day-trippers and long-term campers alike.

Reviews Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

Santee Lakes is widely appreciated as a scenic, family-friendly destination for walking, picnicking, and camping. While many visitors enjoy the well-maintained grounds and peaceful atmosphere, others report concerns regarding maintenance, wildlife issues, and inconsistent experiences with staff and fishing.

Opening hours

Friday

6 AM–7 PM

Monday

7 AM–7 PM

Sunday

6 AM–7 PM

Tuesday

7 AM–7 PM

Saturday

6 AM–7 PM

Thursday

7 AM–7 PM

Wednesday

7 AM–7 PM

Contact

• 9310 Fanita Pkwy, Santee, CA 92071
• (619) 596-3141
• www.santeelakes.com