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Charming Reservoirs on the Westside, Los Angeles

Most Scenic Reservoirs near LA

Silver Screen Serenity:
Exploring Los Angeles' Reservoirs Through Film


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Updated on Mar 21 2024 9:55am

LA's Best Reservoirs

Nestled amidst the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles lies a network of reservoirs silently serving as both vital water sources and captivating movie backdrops for Hollywood's iconic films.

Los Angeles, a city often synonymous with glitz and glamour, is also home to a network of vital reservoirs that quietly ensure the supply of water to its millions of residents. Spanning across the vast urban landscape, these reservoirs stand as silent guardians of the city's water security. From the iconic Hollywood Reservoir nestled amidst the Hollywood Hills, offering scenic trails and a glimpse into cinematic history, to the serene Silver Lake Reservoir in the heart of Silver Lake, providing a haven for recreation and wildlife, and the tranquil Franklin Canyon Reservoir in Beverly Hills, steeped in both natural beauty and cinematic lore, each reservoir serves as a vital component of Los Angeles' infrastructure while simultaneously offering moments of respite and reflection for its residents. These reservoirs not only quench the city's thirst but also weave themselves into the fabric of its identity, embodying the harmonious blend of urban living and natural splendor that defines the City of Angels.

Most Charming Reservoirs
Hollywood Reservoir, Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, California
Hollywood Reservoir, Hollywood, Los Angeles, California
Hollywood Reservoir in Southern California

Hollywood Reservoir - Hollywood Hills

Nestled amidst the iconic Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Reservoir stands as a testament to both natural beauty and cinematic history. A serene oasis born from the ingenuity of William Mulholland's engineering prowess, the Mulholland Dam stands sentinel over the tranquil waters of Lake Hollywood, serving as a vital lifeline for Los Angeles since its inception in 1924. Framed by the silhouette of the Hollywood sign and flanked by Cahuenga Peak and Mount Lee, this picturesque reservoir has played host to numerous movie and TV productions, including the memorable episode "Lake Hollywood" from Ray Donovan's 2016 season, alongside cinematic classics like "Chinatown," "Earthquake," and "Rescue Me." As visitors traverse the 3.4-mile loop encircling the reservoir, they become part of a storied landscape where nature intertwines with the magic of Hollywood, offering a glimpse into the timeless allure of this cinematic haven.


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Most Charming Reservoirs
Silver Lake, California
Silver Lake Reservoir, LA County, California
Silver Lake Reservoir in Southern California

Silver Lake Reservoir - Silver Lake

Nestled in the heart of Silver Lake, Los Angeles, California, the Silver Lake Reservoir captivates visitors with its serene beauty and vibrant recreational offerings. Spanning 114 acres, the reservoir boasts two dog parks catering to canines of all sizes, a basketball court for sports enthusiasts, and a playground for children to frolic. Overlooking the shimmering waters lies The Meadow, a sprawling 2.5-acre grassy knoll where visitors can bask in the sun, enjoy picnics, or engage in leisurely games. The Reservoir teems with life, hosting a diverse array of ducks, geese, and other avian species. Renowned in the realm of cinema, Silver Lake has served as a backdrop for numerous iconic films, including the enigmatic "Under The Silver Lake," alongside cinematic classics such as "Pulp Fiction," "Gangster Squad," and "Grease." Additionally, the neighborhood has provided a scenic setting for television series like "The L Word: Generation Q" and "You," further solidifying its status as a cultural landmark intertwined with the magic of Hollywood.


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Most Charming Reservoirs
Franklin Reservoir, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California
Franklin Reservoir, Los Angeles, California
Franklin Reservoir, Beverly Crest, LA, California

Franklin Reservoir - Beverly Hills

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, the Franklin Canyon Reservoir offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and TV history buffs alike. Spanning 3 acres and adorned with Heavenly Pond, this serene oasis served as a cherished hiking spot for the legendary Katharine Hepburn, who frequented its scenic trails during her time with Spencer Tracy. Tucked below Mulholland Drive, west of Coldwater Canyon, and just moments from the glamour of Beverly Hills, Franklin Canyon Reservoir exudes an aura of escape from the bustling city. With a rich cinematic history dating back to the 1930s, the reservoir has been immortalized on screen in numerous iconic productions. Notably, it stood in for the North Carolina lake in the opening credits of The Andy Griffith Show, while also serving as the backdrop for Claudette Colbert's hitchhiking scene in It Happened One Night. Its tranquil waters have provided settings for beloved TV series including The Brady Bunch, Bonanza, The Waltons, Lassie, and Star Trek, cementing its status as a cherished filming location in Hollywood's rich tapestry of cinematic history.


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Best Outdoor Activities in Los Angeles
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