Mountain Escapes: Family Road Trip Photography at Southern California's Lakes
Why Choose Mountain Lakes for Your Family Photography Session?
Mountain lake photography sessions offer something no studio can: authenticity. Surrounded by towering pines, mirror-like water, and mountain peaks, these natural backdrops create an atmosphere of calm and connection. Families can explore, play, and simply be themselves—allowing for genuine smiles, candid interactions, and breathtaking portraits.
Whether you're celebrating a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or just carving out quality time, these sessions let you blend adventure and artistry. Perfect for families visiting from bustling cities who want to slow down and savor the beauty of Southern California’s high-elevation gems.
Top Mountain Lake Destinations for Family Photography
Big Bear Lake
Location: San Bernardino Mountains, CA
Address: 630 Bartlett Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Why Shoot Here: Big Bear Lake is a classic alpine getaway with year-round beauty. From its wooden docks to hidden forest trails, every corner offers a new photo op. Families from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County often make the drive to experience the charm of lakefront cabins and cozy mountain moments.
Photo Op Ideas: Try Boulder Bay Park for wide lake views or the Castle Rock Trail for rustic forest portraits.
Pro Tip: For fewer crowds, explore the north shore early in the morning or head toward the alpine forest trails near Pine Knot Landing.
Photo Credit: Joshua Chun
Lake Arrowhead
Location: San Bernardino Mountains, CA
Address: 28200 CA-189, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352
Why Shoot Here: Often called the “Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead exudes luxury and peace. Surrounded by elegant homes, forested trails, and upscale shops, it’s perfect for styled family sessions. The Lake Arrowhead Village offers charming boardwalks, shopping, and views.
Photo Op Ideas: Walk the lakeside paths at the Village, or shoot near North Bay Trail for picturesque views.
Pro Tip: While the lake itself is private, many photo ops are available along the village boardwalk and scenic routes like Hwy 173.
Photo Credit: Carter Saunders
Lake Gregory
Location: Crestline, CA
Address: 24171 Lake Dr, Crestline, CA 92325
Why Shoot Here: Less crowded than its neighbors, Lake Gregory offers grassy parks, kid-friendly water zones, and peaceful shoreline paths. Families from Riverside and San Bernardino love this easy day-trip spot.
Photo Op Ideas: Rent a pedal boat or picnic near the swimming area. The shaded paths around the lake offer great candid backdrops.
Pro Tip: Park near San Moritz Lodge and follow the trail around the west shore for quieter photo spots with filtered light and lake reflections.
Photo Credit: Kelly Sikkema
Green Valley Lake
Location: San Bernardino Mountains, CA
Address: Green Valley Lake Rd, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341
Why Shoot Here: Known as the “best-kept secret,” Green Valley Lake is a quiet escape that feels untouched. The crystal-clear lake is perfect for paddleboarding, fishing, and intimate family moments.
Photo Op Ideas: Shoot near the dock at sunrise or capture moments with your kids skipping rocks at golden hour.
Pro Tip: Grab a spot near the public beach before 9 AM for pristine, empty shoreline and early golden light.
Photo Credit: Peter Robins
Jenks Lake
Location: Near Angelus Oaks, CA
Address: Jenks Lake Rd W, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305
Why Shoot Here: Surrounded by dense pine forest and known for its peaceful vibes, Jenks Lake is ideal for nature-loving families who want a serene, reflective setting. Visitors from Las Vegas and Arizona enjoy its cooler temps and calm energy.
Photo Op Ideas: Take a walk along the shoreline for reflection shots, or explore the forest trails nearby.
Pro Tip: Want a little more adventure? Park at the base of the entrance and take the short hiking trail up for a more private viewpoint and great photo angles.
Photo Credit: Charley Pangus
Lake Hemet
Location: San Jacinto Mountains, CA
Address: 56570 CA-74, Mountain Center, CA 92561
Why Shoot Here: Tucked into the San Jacinto Mountains, Lake Hemet offers pine-lined views, quiet shores, and fewer crowds. It’s a top choice for laid-back families coming from Palm Springs and Temecula.
Photo Op Ideas: Photograph near the boat dock or capture wide shots of the lake with distant mountain ranges.
Pro Tip: Purchase a day pass and drive into the campground area—some of the best photo spots are tucked behind campsites, offering peace, privacy, and shaded lake views.
Lake Fulmor
Location: Just outside Idyllwild, CA
Address: Hwy 243, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549
Why Shoot Here: A tiny gem tucked into a bend along the mountain highway, Lake Fulmor has a cozy boardwalk and picnic spots perfect for relaxed mini sessions.
Photo Op Ideas: Use the footbridge or reflection shots in the water. Great for quick stops or styled portraits.
Pro Tip: Arrive early before highway traffic picks up, and use the wooden bridge and surrounding trails for dreamy, soft-light portraits.
What to Wear for Your Mountain Lake Photoshoot
Layers Are Key: The mountains cool down fast! Soft knits, denim, flannels, and earth-toned cardigans keep everyone warm and stylish.
Coordinate, Don’t Match: Choose complementary colors—think forest greens, dusty blues, or cream and rust tones.
Footwear Matters: Boots, sneakers, or hiking shoes are great for lake trails and rocky spots.
Accessories: Add cozy scarves, wide-brim hats, or bring heirloom items like family blankets or fishing gear for personality.
Make It a Full Family Getaway
These lake destinations offer everything from cabin rentals and fishing spots to canoe rides and hiking trails. Whether you're escaping from L.A. for the weekend or visiting from out of state, it’s easy to turn your family photo session into a full-fledged adventure.
Plan a cozy overnight stay, roast s’mores after your session, or explore nature trails together. The journey becomes part of the memory.
Book Your Mountain Lake Family Session
We specialize in natural light, outdoor photography for families who love a little adventure with their portraits. Whether you want a 45-minute session or a full day of storytelling at multiple locations, we’ll help you create a collection that reflects your family’s bond.
Try our Spring in Focus Photoshoot for a simple yet meaningful session, or contact us to plan a full custom package at your favorite lake.
Final Thoughts: Turn the Drive Into a Memory
These Southern California mountain lakes aren’t just scenic—they’re soul-filling. From the still waters of Jenks Lake to the charm of Big Bear or the hidden quiet of Green Valley Lake, each destination has its own energy, ready to be captured with your loved ones.
If your family loves road trips, outdoor fun, and real moments over stiff poses, this is your sign to take your next photoshoot to the mountains.
Let’s hit the road and make magic.
