Chollas Park

Chollas Lake Park is a 60-acre urban oasis located in southeastern San Diego, California. The park is centered around a 16-acre reservoir that was originally constructed in 1901 to serve San Diego's early water supply. In 1966, the lake was turned over to the city's Department of Park and Recreation, and in 1971 it was designated as a youth fishing lake.

The park's main feature is the lake itself, which is surrounded by a 0.8-mile dirt path popular for walking, jogging, and bicycling. This path is shaded by towering eucalyptus trees, providing a cool and peaceful environment for exercise and leisure activities. The lake is stocked with fish and serves as the only youth-only fishing lake in San Diego County, allowing children 15 years and under to fish for free.

Beyond the lake, Chollas Lake Park offers additional hiking trails that extend into the surrounding urban canyon area. These trails provide opportunities for nature walks and wildlife observation, with various native and non-native plant species present throughout the park. The park's landscape includes a mix of open areas, wooded sections, and chaparral-filled canyons, offering diverse environments for visitors to explore.

The park provides numerous recreational facilities for community use. There are picnic areas with tables and barbecue grills scattered throughout the park, some near the water's edge and others in more secluded spots among the trees. For families with children, the park features playgrounds, including a large one at Gloria's Mesa and a smaller one near the lake's southern shore.

Chollas Lake Park also hosts various community programs and events throughout the year. These include fishing clinics, nature walks, reading programs, and seasonal activities like caroling around the lake and an annual spring egg hunt. The park serves as an important community resource, offering a natural retreat and recreational opportunities within an urban setting.