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.

Before You Go: 10 Last-Minute Travel Photoshoot Destinations in Southern California

Photo Credit: Benjamin Voros

Looking for the perfect way to wrap up your Southern California getaway? Whether you're leaving town tomorrow or just remembered you need that one perfect family photo, our "Before You Go" Last-Minute Travel Shoot captures the magic of your vacation right before it ends. It's fast, spontaneous, and designed for travelers who want beautiful, high-quality images without the hassle of long planning.

At Last Minute Photoshoot, we specialize in on-demand photography for travelers, couples, and families making the most of their California adventure.

Why Travelers Are Booking Last-Minute Sessions

Every year, millions of travelers arrive in Southern California from around the world—many from places like New York, Florida, Mexico City, Vancouver, Toronto, London, Montreal, Tokyo, and beyond. California’s coastlines, wine country, deserts, and theme parks are more than destinations—they’re memory-making backdrops.

We’ve designed these quick, efficient sessions for:

• Families wanting a vacation portrait before heading home

• Couples who want one last romantic moment captured

• Content creators and solo travelers needing professional shots

With major international airports like LAX, SAN, and ONT, and drive-ins from Las Vegas, Phoenix, and San Francisco, the opportunity for a last-minute session is just one click away.

Below are the top 10 locations in Southern California for a Last Minute Travel Shoot, based on accessibility, foot traffic, and iconic scenery.

1. Santa Monica Pier & Venice Beach

Santa Monica Pier – 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Venice Beach Boardwalk – 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: With over 10 million annual visitors, Santa Monica and Venice offer two classic LA backdrops within minutes of each other. Great for spontaneous shoots with the family, or artsy boardwalk portraits for couples.

Quick tip: Schedule during golden hour for dreamy pier sunsets or vibrant mural shots.

2. Disneyland Resort & Anaheim Packing District

Disneyland – 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802
Anaheim Packing District – 440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: Just finished a magical day at Disney? Our photographers can meet you nearby for a 30-minute shoot while the memories are still fresh. Perfect for parents, kids, and couples who want to remember the moment forever.

Quick tip: Use Downtown Disney or the gardens around Disneyland Hotel for lush backdrops.

Photo Credit: Bradi Alexandra

3. Temecula Wine Country

Wilson Creek Winery – 35960 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591
Callaway Vineyard & Winery – 32720 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: A favorite stop for couples, girls' trips, and wine lovers traveling in from LA or SD. Perfect for engagement photos, anniversary keepsakes, or simply to celebrate your vineyard escape.

Quick tip: Plan around sunset for golden-hour glow through the vines.

4. Joshua Tree National Park

Visitor Center – 6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: The desert scenery is surreal, raw, and unforgettable. Great for artistic couples, solo travelers, or even spontaneous elopement-style shoots.

Quick tip: Cholla Cactus Garden and Arch Rock are ideal for sunrise.

Photo Credit: Cedric Letsch

5. La Jolla Cove & Torrey Pines State Reserve

La Jolla Cove – 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Torrey Pines – 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: Dolphins, cliffs, and tide pools. Whether you're heading back to Canada, Texas, or Europe, this stop is easy to access and hard to forget.

Quick tip: Hike down the Saigon Trail for jaw-dropping ocean views.

Photo Credit: Zach Josephson

6. Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory – 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: The Hollywood Sign, skyline views, and classic architecture make this a top pick for LA tourists and content creators.

Quick tip: Shoot during twilight for a soft-lit cityscape.

Photo Credit: Pedro Marroquin

7. Third Street Promenade

Third Street Promenade – 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: Near the beach and full of energy. Ideal for lifestyle content, casual portraits, or family sessions after lunch or shopping.

Quick tip: Use the storefronts, string lights, or hidden murals for variety.

Photo Credit: Gerson Repreza

8. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park

Abalone Cove – 5970 Palos Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: Hidden cliffs, crashing waves, and tide pools—minus the crowds. A favorite for couples heading to or from LAX.

Quick tip: Low tide = access to epic caves and tidepools.

Photo Credit: VincentYuan87

9. LA County Arboretum

Arboretum – 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: If you’re wrapping up your SoCal trip inland, this lush garden oasis is perfect for family and maternity shoots.

Quick tip: Peacocks roam the grounds—great for kids!

Photo Credit: Hendrik Morkel

10. Carlsbad Flower Fields (Seasonal: March–May)

The Flower Fields – 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Why it's perfect for last-minute photos: A seasonal favorite near San Diego, especially for spring break travelers from New York, Florida, or abroad.

Quick tip: Early morning gives the best light and minimal crowds.

Photo Credit: Samantha Fortney

Book Your "Before You Go" Travel Shoot – Starting at $295

• 45-minute session in any featured location

• 30 professionally edited images

• 5 prints in various sizes

• Full online gallery within 24 hours

• Part of our service includes early arrival to secure photo-worthy locations, making things easier for you

• Same-day rush available

Reserve Your Shoot Today

Final Thoughts

Vacation goes by fast—but your memories don't have to. Whether you're boarding a flight to London, driving back to Phoenix, or heading home to New York, our Last-Minute Travel Photoshoots let you leave with something meaningful.

Because the best souvenir… is the photo you almost forgot to take.