We realize that “picnic” is synonymous with “summer.” Still, we’d like to welcome you to the world of fall fete champetres, where crisp, chilly air, cozy blankets, and the irresistible allure of autumn culminate in what can only be described as alfresco magic. As leaves almost everywhere turn to vibrant red, orange, and golden hues, there’s no better time to embrace the season’s beauty and indulge in the warmth of a cozy and charming outdoor autumn picnic. 

The following represents our picks as you plan your journey into the ultimate fall alfresco dining outing around Woodland Hills – think of it as a delightful experience beyond just a meal on a blanket in the great California outdoors.  

Top of Topanga Overlook, situated at 3400 North Topanga Canyon Boulevard in Topanga, is a nine-acre site that includes parking, restroom facilities, extensive native landscaping, interpretive displays, a drinking fountain, benches, and, of course, picnic areas. Accessed from Topanga Canyon Drive above the San Fernando Valley, the Top of Topanga Overlook provides visitors the perfect backdrop for an autumn picnic, with its views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Santa Susana Mountains, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the wide valley below. No overnight parking allowed.

Serrania Park, situated at 20726 Wells Drive, is a serene outdoor space nestled in the heart of Woodland Hills, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature while engaging in outdoor activities – but with its lush greenery and well-maintained grounds, this spot provides a welcoming environment for you and your family to relax and unwind amid a bustling city. Best of all, Serrania Park makes for the perfect picnic oasis, given that it’s one of the only parks in Los Angeles surrounded by steep mountains, to say nothing of its pet-friendly aura, playground facilities, and more.

Red Rock Canyon Park, situated at 23601 West Red Rock Road in Topanga, is located in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains off of Old Topanga Canyon Road, offering a small picnic area and drinking fountain at the trailhead. The riparian canyon walls are fortified with huge red sandstorm outcroppings reminiscent of Southwest canyons and gorges. At the same time, special Rockland micro-habitats reside among the many beautiful red, tan, and pale purple rocks and oak – plus sycamore trees at the bottom of the gorge. When you’re ready to picnic at Red Rock Canyon Park, you’ll be treated to a key habitat linkage between Malibu Creek State Park and Topanga State Park. Parking is $5.

Shoup Park Summit, situated at the Woodland Hills Recreation Center, is a serene outdoor destination nestled in the heart of L.A., offering a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature while unwinding in a tranquil setting. In addition to these elements, Shoup Park Summit remains an ideal venue for those looking to relax, being that it features several picnic areas where you can sit back and enjoy a meal while taking in the views. These shaded spots are perfect for a family picnic, a quiet lunch, or a place to curl up with a good book. Open 24 hours.

Calabasas Creek Park, situated on Calabasas Road and Mulholland Drive/Valley Circle Old Town in Calabasas, boasts a rich history that’s well-known by Woodland Hills locals, reaching back to 1776 when Juan De Anza and his party of Spanish explorers stopped here to rest their horses under the oaks – today, people from all over L.A. come to enjoy a moment under those same oaks along the creek, just as they did over 200 years ago. Privately owned and maintained by the Leonis Adobe Association, Calabasas Creek Park represents a late 1880s Victorian period area with original and replicated artifacts and remains part of the Leonis Adobe Museum, a fully-restored venue adjacent to Sagebrush Cantina. Often called a “darling place” to relax or picnic, Calabasas Creek Park remains a top choice on our list of perfect fall picnic spots.

Shadow Ranch Park, located at 22633 Vanowen Street in West Hills, was established in 1932 and provides a space for all ages, what with its plethora of swings, slides, shade, and clean sand – but when it comes to picnicking around Woodland Hills, there’s little competition. Great for parties and outdoor events with an area boasting multiple picnic tables, shade, and grassy areas to sit on, Shadow Ranch Park also shares a rich history with other locales in our roundup; this historic ranch house, built from 1869 to 1872, was one of the first ten properties to be designated as a city Historic-Cultural Monument (HCM #9), even boasting something of haunted history. Open Monday and Tuesday from 8 am to 4:30 pm, Wednesday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm; closed Sunday.

Whether you’re a seasoned picnic enthusiast or a newcomer eager to experience the joys of autumn alfresco dining on a blanket, this roundup has hopefully guided you in uncovering the secrets to crafting a fall picnic – one that is as charming as it is memorable.