Professional Photography, Filming, Videos

Lake Jennings is a highly desirable film backdrop for small and large scale productions. With scenic beauty and close proximity to San Diego, the lake makes this an ideal location for still photography, commercial, motion picture, and video production. The 350-acre park is located just off the intersection of Highway I-8 and Lake Jennings Park Road at 9535 Harritt Road, Lakeside, 92040. The grounds are typically closed to the general public four days per week, providing a secure setting and eliminating crowd control issues that can be encountered in other venues.

Permits, Schedule and Regulations

Recognizing that schedules may require same-day turnaround for permits, approvals can generally be acquired within a few hours. To expedite requests, please download and email the facilities use permit along with the certificate of insurance naming Helix Water District as the “additional insured” to: Helix Water District at ranger@lakejennings.org. The permit may also be faxed to (619) 390-2755. Payment of use fees are to be made at the time of reservation. 

Fees vary according to location. See the Venue Fee Schedule for area breakdowns.

Larger or more intensive shoots with special needs will incur additional charges. The use of large or unusual equipment must be approved by Helix Water District, and may also be subject to additional costs that will be negotiated with the District.

Lake Staff will assist production by facilitating and accommodating wherever and whenever possible. However, some areas of the park may be unavailable due to endangered species, health department regulations, sensitive habitat, or environmental concerns. In most cases, viable alternatives can be made available.

Photography, filming and videotaping for purposes of professional use is subject to the rental agreement for the areas of the lake being used.

Because Lake Jennings is a drinking water reservoir and subject to public health laws and regulations, body contact with the water is prohibited. Filming is subject to all Lake Jennings rules and regulations.

For purposes of insurance coverage, Helix Water District must be listed as a named “additional insured” on a policy that includes the entire time period of the rental agreement. Minimum policy limits are $2,000,000 in aggregate; $1,000,000 each occurrence. Please see application for specific wording required on insurance documents.