Top 19 Lakes around Colma
Lakes near Colma California are typically found in adjacent cities or regions, as Colma itself is primarily known for its numerous cemeteries. The town does not feature notable natural lakes within its municipal boundaries. Visitors seeking lake-related activities will need to explore areas outside of Colma, such as San Francisco or Brisbane. These nearby locations offer various natural and man-made water bodies.
Best lakes around Colma
- The most popular lakes is Lake Merced, a large freshwater lake in Sanβ¦
Last updated: August 16, 2026
Stow Lake - Golden Gate Park
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Brisbane Lagoon
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Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake
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Lake Merced
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Botanical Garden North (Friends) Entrance πΊ
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Tips from the Community
The headwind when riding north can be brutal some days. The bike lane on both sides is wide and expansive. It's a really safe place to ride with beautiful views.
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Hellman Meadow is hosting the annual "Hardly Strictly Bluegrass" festival, on the first long weekend of October on some 5 stages of free live music in Golden Gate Park, financed since 20 years before his death with a foundation grant by angel investor Warren Hellman, who loved music.
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Really nice park π
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Quaint small lake fed by a stream pumped uphill and descending as an artificial waterfall. Across the street from Hellman's Hollow, the meadow hosting the annual "Hardly Strictly Bluegrass" festival, on the first long weekend of October on some 5 stages of free live music in Golden Gate Park, financed with a foundation grant by Warren Hellman, who loved music.
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Great alternate exit/entrance for a run through the beautiful and fragrant biomes https://www.sfbg.org/visit
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Stow Lake is a manmade lake in Golden Gate Park with a rich history that dates back to 1893. Offering hiking and bike trails, Stow Lake is a popular destination for visitors looking to engage in active pursuits in the park, boat rides, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and even ghost hunting. Row boats, electric boats or pedal boats are for rent from the Stow Lake Boathouse 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week, and a Surrey Quadricycle photo op at the rental center. There are eight picnic tables and two BBQ grills, some people also rent the picnic area for family celebrations, parties, and other gatherings. Restrooms are close to the Boathouse. The cafΓ© at the Boathouse provides coffee and snacks. The surrounding bridges, feathered residents, meandering turtles, and other bursts of nature create a wealth of photo opportunities. Some trails are not for biking, consider walking around the lake and crossing over the bridges to venture throughout Strawberry Hill in the center of the lake or visit the historic Pioneer Log Cabin located near John F. Kennedy Drive. Other sights of Stow Lake include endless wildlife, many birds, and the bright red colors of the round Chinese pagoda β a gift given to the park from San Franciscoβs βsister cityβ of Taipei. Stow Lake is located between John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive β west of the Japanese Tea Gardens. Weekends are bike friendly: no cars are allowed on John F. Kennedy Drive on Saturdays (April to September) or Sundays (year-round) β but cars are always on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. https://goldengatepark.com/stow-lake.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any lakes directly within Colma, California?
No, Colma is primarily known for its cemeteries and does not feature notable natural lakes within its municipal boundaries. Visitors seeking lake-related activities will need to explore areas outside of Colma, such as San Francisco or Brisbane.
Which lakes are popular for visitors near Colma?
Popular lakes near Colma include Lake Merced in San Francisco, Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake also in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, and Brisbane Lagoon in the nearby city of Brisbane.
What kind of activities can I do at Lake Merced?
Lake Merced is a large freshwater lake popular with boaters, hikers, bicyclists, and golfers. The larger south portion of the lake is open to boating and has a free public boat dock for launching kayaks and canoes.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Colma?
Yes, several lakes in the vicinity are considered family-friendly. Lake Merced, Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake, and Brisbane Lagoon all feature amenities and environments suitable for families.
What natural features can I expect to see at Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake?
Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake is a quaint small lake fed by a stream that is pumped uphill and descends as an artificial waterfall, creating a picturesque setting within Golden Gate Park.
Can I find hiking trails near these lakes?
Yes, there are various hiking opportunities. For example, you can find easy hikes around the region, including trails like Mussel Rock Trail and Milagra Ridge Loop. You can explore more options on the Easy hikes around Colma guide.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes near Colma?
Absolutely. The area offers several cycling routes, such as the Murphy Windmill β Golden Gate Park loop. For more detailed routes and options, refer to the Cycling around Colma guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Colma guide.
What is Brisbane Lagoon and where is it located?
Brisbane Lagoon is a remnant of San Francisco Bay, formed by the construction of the U.S. Highway 101 causeway. It is located in the nearby city of Brisbane, adjacent to the San Francisco Bay.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Colma?
Visitors appreciate the diverse environments offered by these lakes, from the boating and recreational opportunities at Lake Merced to the scenic beauty of Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake. The community has shared over 15 photos and given more than 25 upvotes for these spots.
Is public transport available to lakes near Colma?
While specific public transport details for each lake vary, Lake Merced, being in San Francisco, is generally accessible via public transportation options within the city.
Are there any cafes or amenities near these lakes?
Lakes like Lake Merced and those within Golden Gate Park (like Hellman Meadow and Lloyd Lake) are typically located near urban areas with access to cafes and other facilities. The 614-acre park around Lake Merced also includes extended golf courses with amenities.
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