Just 10 miles west of Ojai, Lake Casitas is a sprawling reservoir offering family-friendly recreation with a relaxed vibe. Known for bass fishing, the lake hosts several tournaments and yields largemouth bass, crappie, and redear sunfish. While body contact is restricted, kayaking, sailing, and pedal boating are allowed. The Lake Casitas Recreation Area features a massive campground with over 400 sites, a water adventure park for kids (seasonal), and bike rentals. The Coyote Point Disc Golf Course offers lake views and shaded fairways. Casitas is also a dark-sky haven, making it ideal for stargazing. On weekends, food trucks and markets pop up nearby, and Boccali’s Pizza & Pasta in Ojai is a beloved spot for post-lake refueling. Quiet, scenic, and ideal for unplugging—Casitas is SoCal’s under-the-radar outdoor escape.
- Surface area (mi)
- 2.77
- Max depth (ft)
- 239.5
- Elevation (ft)
- 337.93
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 32.37
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
Islands
Amidst the tranquil waters of Southern California lies a collection of islands that evoke a sense of serenity and mystery. Steeped in history, these landmasses have served as gathering places for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The remnants of early 20th-century structures dot the shorelines, providing a picturesque backdrop for hikers exploring the winding trails that meander through lush flora. Lookouts offer breathtaking vistas, perfect for a captivating photograph at sunset, while hidden coves invite exploration. Among the islands, you might stumble upon secluded spots ideal for picnicking or simply unwinding in nature’s embrace. For the adventurous, watercraft rentals make navigating between these isles a thrilling endeavor. Each visit unveils anecdotes of the past, as whispers of Native American heritage and early settlers linger in the gentle breeze, enticing travelers to discover the rich tapestry of culture and beauty beneath the azure skies.
Nearby amenities
A variety of amenities are available for those visiting this scenic Californian lake. For boating enthusiasts, the Lake Casitas Marina provides boat rentals, a public dock, and a convenient boat ramp. Jet ski and pontoon rentals are also offered, along with a fuel dock for refueling on the water. Visitors can find a range of shops, including a well-stocked general store and a bait and tackle shop to meet all fishing needs. Dining options are plentiful, featuring the Lake Casitas Restaurant with lakefront views, as well as nearby cafes and ice cream stands for a quick treat.
Parking is organized with a day-use lot and RV parking available, ensuring easy access for all visitors. For those looking to stay overnight, Camp Casitas offers both tent and RV camping, along with cozy cabins. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with hiking trails and a designated swimming area. Well-maintained restrooms, trash bins, and potable water stations enhance visitor convenience throughout the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Casitas Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Casitas. It is a drinking water reservoir, and any body contact with the lake water is prohibited to maintain water quality. Instead, you can swim at the Lake Casitas Water Adventure Park, which is located within the recreation area.
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Casitas Lake is a popular destination because of its diverse recreational activities. It offers fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and a family-friendly water park called Casitas Water Adventure with a lazy river and water playgrounds. The lake’s serene setting and beautiful scenery also make it an ideal spot for relaxation and nature lovers.
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The bag limits for Casitas Lake are as follows: three catfish, five crappie, and five sunfish. For largemouth bass, the limit is five per angler, but bass between 12 to 18 inches must be released. These limits were implemented to improve bass fishing and manage fish populations.
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There is no public beach at Casitas Lake. This is because Lake Casitas is a drinking water supply, and any type of swimming, wading, or body contact is not allowed.
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The towns near Lake Casitas are Ojai and Ventura. Ojai is a quaint village with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, just a five-minute drive from the lake. Ventura is a bit farther, accessible via US-101 and CA-33.