La Mesa Eco Park sits at the northern edge of Quezon City beside the La Mesa Dam, which provides much of Metro Manila's water supply. The park covers a significant tract of second-growth forest that has been protected for decades, and contains a small lake where visitors can rent paddle boats, swimming pools, picnic areas, and a nature trail through the secondary forest.
It is a real escape from the city — the air is noticeably cooler and cleaner once you are inside the reserve. The birdwatching is good by Metro Manila standards. Weekends get crowded, but the park is large enough that you can find a quiet trail if you are willing to walk a bit past the main picnic area.
Getting there requires a car or a tricycle from a jeepney drop-off point — it is not easily reachable by public transport. Allow a full half-day if you want to properly explore the trails and the lake.