Home › California › Chula Vista › Otay Lakes County Park
Otay Lakes County Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 491 Google reviews · Running trail in Chula Vista, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Otay Lakes County Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking and biking trails amid gorgeous scenery, plus playgrounds and BBQ spots.
What runners say about Otay Lakes County Park
“Parking is $3 which gives you access to a beautiful clean park with gorgeous breathtaking lakeside views and rich wildlife.”
“Parking is $3 which gives you access to a beautiful clean park with gorgeous breathtaking lakeside views and rich wildlife.”
“You've got the lake, a nice shady park with BBQ spots, and a few trails to choose from.”
Otay Lakes County Park in Chula Vista is one of those parks where playing with the kiddos can be so peaceful because you are surrounded by so many large trees, mountains, a beautiful lake, & trails. The park has lounging chairs to sit and just admire the spectacular views of the Otay Lake.
This is a great location. You've got the lake, a nice shady park with BBQ spots, and a few trails to choose from. the start of this trail head is directly across from the bathrooms. If you see a sign that says "Stop" steep banks do so, we ran into a dead end and some crumbly ledges.
Really nice clean park. Beautiful views of the lake. Lots of hiking trails to choose from. Wasn't alot of ppl thr surprisingly for a Sunday. Picnic tables, BBQ, a playground for the kids. Nice area to hve a bday party, or a family get together. Bathrooms are super clean. Well maintained. Cost 3 dollars to get in.
I love this park. Parking is $3 which gives you access to a beautiful clean park with gorgeous breathtaking lakeside views and rich wildlife. Really fun to set up a tripod with binoculars for birding. We heard and saw 3 red shouldered hawks flying together!
Trail conditions & character
“Parking is $3 which gives you access to a beautiful clean park with gorgeous breathtaking lakeside views and rich wildlife.”
“Parking is $3 which gives you access to a beautiful clean park with gorgeous breathtaking lakeside views and rich wildlife.”
“Scenic with a large lake view, bathroom facilities that are maintained, covered areas for rent and a playground for kids.”
“You've got the lake, a nice shady park with BBQ spots, and a few trails to choose from.”
“00 parking fee Hiking trail & a stroller friendly trail Park brochures available at the ranger station”
Plan your run at Otay Lakes County Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitesdparks.org
- Phone+1 619-482-7361
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Chula Vista
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lower Otay Reservoir Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 70 reviews
Scenic area featuring a short hiking trail along a lake.
Chula Vista Fun Run
4.7 ★★★★★ 3 reviews
Mountain Hawk Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,141 reviews
12-acre green space with picnic gazebos & trails, plus a basketball court, playground & splash pad.
All Seasons Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 238 reviews
Green space featuring areas for basketball & soccer, a playground & picnic spots with BBQs.