Don Castro Regional Recreation Area

About this place
Provided BBQ grills in picnic areas; personal charcoal/propane BBQs allowed in designated picnic areas outside the swim lagoon. Picnic sites inside the swim area are not reservable. Red Flag fire bans apply.
Good to know
Hours
- 8:00 AM–8:00 PMNov 1–Feb 28 · November - February
- 8:00 AM–10:00 PMMar 1–Oct 31 · March - October
Fees
- Free per personLagoon Access Fee, under 2 years, June-September weekends/holidays only
- $3 per personLagoon Access Fee, age 2-17, June-September weekends/holidays only
- $3 per personLagoon Access Fee, age 62+ or disabled, June-September weekends/holidays only
- $5 per personLagoon Access Fee, age 18-61, June-September weekends/holidays only
- $5 per trailerJune-September weekends/holidays only; October-May no fee
- $5 per vehicleJune-September weekends/holidays only; October-May no fee
- $25 per busJune-September weekends/holidays only; October-May no fee
What's here
Location
Common questions
Can you grill at Don Castro Regional Recreation Area?
Yes — both propane and charcoal grilling are allowed at Don Castro Regional Recreation Area. Grills are already provided on site. None for provided grills; 2 group picnic sites reservable. Always confirm current rules on the official page before you go.
Do you need a permit or reservation?
None for provided grills; 2 group picnic sites reservable.
Is there a fee at Don Castro Regional Recreation Area?
Yes — fees apply. For example, Free per person · Lagoon Access Fee, under 2 years, June-September weekends/holidays only. See the official page for the full schedule.
Can you swim at Don Castro Regional Recreation Area?
Swimming allowed in the lagoon, open weekends and holidays May 16–Sept. 27, and Monday-Friday June 1–Aug. 14, 11am-5:30pm (gates close at 6pm).
Are dogs allowed?
No animals except ADA-trained service dogs are allowed in the swim area.
What are the hours at Don Castro Regional Recreation Area?
8:00 AM–8:00 PM · Nov 1–Feb 28 · November - February; 8:00 AM–10:00 PM · Mar 1–Oct 31 · March - October.
