*HEAT ALERT: With temperatures set to exceed 110 degrees throughout much of the state this week, California is urging everyone to take extra precautions as they celebrate the Fourth of July. Governor Newsom has directed the Office of Emergency Services to activate its State Operations Center. Read about how California is preparing for this heatwave. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of California from 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, through Sunday, July 7, at 8 p.m. PDT. Please be sure to take extra precautions when heading outdoors and know before you go by checking the park’s webpage ahead of time. Visit our safety tips webpage and get the latest on the weather at weather.gov.
Current Restrictions
Last Checked: 7/4/2024 11:10 AM
Additional Reservation Information
Reservations are available by visiting the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation website.
Yes
Dogs not allowed in water. Note: Park unit operated by Los Angeles County. Check website at https://parks.lacounty.gov/castaic-lake-state-recreation-area/ for more information.
Picnic Areas
Env. Learning/Visitor Center
Exhibits and Programs
Fishing
Beach Area
Swimming
Vista Point
Windsurfing/Surfing
Family Programs
The recreation area can be reached by exiting Interstate 5 at Hughes Lake Road, 41 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. From Ventura, it is 51 miles to Castaic Lake via Highway 126 and Interstate 5.
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area is a reservoir of the State Water Project. It is one of the Project's largest recreational lakes and the terminal of its west branch. The site includes 29 miles of shoreline. A major attraction is the 425-foot tall Castaic Dam.
Castaic Lake has two bodies of water. Lower lake is for non-power boating and canoeing. Swimming season on lower lake runs from mid-May to mid-September. Upper lake is for sailing, power boating, water and jet skiing, and fishing. The lake is stocked with bass, trout and catfish. Boat rentals and a tackle bait shop are available.
Other recreational activities include hiking, biking trails, picnic areas and playgrounds. Rental group picnic areas are available for up to 600 persons.
Location - Directions
The recreation area can be reached by exiting Interstate 5 at Hughes Lake Road, 41 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. From Ventura, it is 51 miles to Castaic Lake via Highway 126 and Interstate 5. Latitude/Longitude: 34.5347 / -118.6108
Facilities/Activities Los Angeles County operates Castaic Lake SRA -- please visit their website for additional information.