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Lake Casitas Recreation Area FAQ

Can we swim in Lake Casitas? 

No, we do not allow any type of swimming, wading or body contact in Lake Casitas. It is because Lake Casitas is a drinking water supply.

What campgrounds have a view of the lake? 

Many campsites have some views of the lake, but the best and most popular are Campgrounds F, G, and M, depending on lake levels.

Which campgrounds have playgrounds? 

C, G and M. There are also playgrounds near the front entrance, at the Santa Ana Boat Launch picnic area, the Wadleigh Arm Event area and at Picnic #8.

How many tents are allowed per site? 

There is no limit to the number of tents, but there is a maximum of six people per site.

How many pets are allowed per campsite? 

Two.

What is the earliest I can check in? 

If there is no one in the site from the night before, you may be able to come in earlier, otherwise check-in time is 2:00 p.m. You can call ahead to check the status of your campsite (805) 649-2233.

What are check-in and check-out times? 

Check in time is 2:00 p.m. and check out time is 12:00 p.m.

What is the latest check-in time? 

Check-in times vary with the seasons, later during the summer, early during the winter. Please call for more specific information (805) 649-2233.

Can I make a reservation for Saturday only? 

Sorry, no. On the weekends we have a 2-night minimum (Friday / Saturday) and on major holidays, there may be a 3 or 4-night minimum. You are welcome to come in on a Saturday on a first-come, first- served basis, but since we are always full on the weekends in summer, we would suggest that you call ahead and check availability.

Do reservations have to be paid for in advance? 

Yes. They have to be paid in full when made.

What types of payments are accepted? 

Visa, Master Card, Discover, and American Express credit cards and cash.

What is the mailing address? 

11311 Santa Ana Rd., Ventura, CA 93001

How much is it to come in for the day? 

Please visit our Recreation front page for a list of entrance fees. 

Can we bring a dog to the lake? 

Yes, dogs and other pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6' in length and under control at all times. They are not allowed within 50' of the lake or streams or inside the Water Adventure, and may not be left unattended but they are allowed in boats .

Do I need a fishing license to fish at the lake? 

Yes. The California Department of Fish and Game requires persons 16 and over to have a valid California fishing license when fishing. Fishing licenses are sold at the Marina Bait and Tackle Shop. In addition, adults may supervise children under 16 without purchasing a license, but if an adult assists in any way e.g. baiting the hook, casting the line, etc. the adult must purchase a license. See Fishing Terms & Conditions.

What are the boating requirements for the lake? 

Boats must be a minimum of 4' wide, a minimum of 11' and a maximum of 35' in length; however, boats between 26' and 35' in length must be inspected by Park Staff and a special permit issued. Canoes, kayaks and some inflatables are allowed. Inflatables must have a solid floor and transom, at least 3 chambers and 1' of freeboard. They are subject to inspection before being allowed on the lake.

Is boating allowed at night? 

No. Boating is limited to day use hours which vary depending on the time of year.

I can't bring outside food, what else can't I bring into the Casitas Water Adventure? 

The following items are not allowed to be brought into the Casitas Water Adventure: radios, cassette recorders, sleeping bags, luggage, bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades, and coolers other than those containing baby food and / or water. Casitas reserves the right to add items to this list at its sole discretion. Wagons used as strollers and coolers containing baby food and / or water are allowed.

Due to bees and yellowjackets in the area, no food or drinks will be allowed to be brought inside the Water Adventure. This policy has reduced reported bee stings by 90% from previous seasons! Please note that all backpacks, purses, bags and coolers will be inspected at the entrance to the Water Adventure. A picnic area is provided just outside the Water Adventure fence for your convenience.

What if I want to bring my own food & drinks? 

Food & drinks are not allowed to be brought into the Water Adventure, however, picnic tables are conveniently located just outside the waterpark facility.

Can I make Water Adventure ticket reservations? 

Yes, in fact reservations are strongly recommended to guarantee entrance.  Call 805-649-1122.

Are group tickets available for the Water Adventure? 

Yes, for groups of 35 people or larger. Call (805) 649-1122.

I am just going in to watch my children play at the Water Adventure. Do I have to pay also? 

Yes, everyone entering the Casitas Water Adventure must pay the entrance fee.

Do I have to wear a bathing suit while I'm in the water at the Casitas Water Adventure? 

Yes. All patrons entering the water must wear appropriate swimwear, no street clothes.

I have a baby swim tube, may my daughter swim with it? 

No. Floatation devices are not allowed inside the park. A variety of tubes are available to play in and there are life jackets for small children.

Do you offer birthday packages? 

Sorry no, but group rates and shade structures can be reserved for the Casitas Water Adventure.

Where is the Water Adventure located? 

The Water Adventure is inside the park to the right of the entrance.

Are there bears at Lake Casitas? 

Lake Casitas Recreation Area is surrounded by wilderness areas. Yes, bears have been seen in the Recreation Area although on few occasions. A variety of animals make the Recreation Area and the surrounding wilderness their home. There are deer, coyotes, mountain lions, skunks, raccoons, opossums, many species of birds (bald eagles nest in the trees!), and ground squirrels to name a few. There are also an abundance of insects so insect repellent is a must.

Please plan your visit to the wilderness carefully, protect your pets and your camp site.  Appropriately store your food and secure your site.

 

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