Outdoor adventurers will always be at home in California, and there is a lake near Ventura that was made for laidback fun. Lake Casitas is an excellent place to spend the day, but there is so much to do that you may need to stay overnight to fit it all in! This reservoir is just an hour from the town of Ojai and 23 miles from the city of Santa Barbara.
It is the perfect setting, as it offers several areas to explore against the backdrop of the Laguna Ridge area of the Santa Ynez Mountains as well as the Los Padres National Forest. Whether you enjoy wildlife, boating, beautiful views, or golfing, there is plenty of family-friendly fun to be had at Lake Casitas. The only thing you can’t do is swim or come into contact with the lake itself, as it is a drinking water reserve. You could even visit after a trip along California’s Pacific Coast Highway.
Things to do at Lake Casitas
There is a lot to do at Lake Casitas for those who love outdoor activities. On the lake, it is possible to go boating or kayaking. If you have children, there is also a dedicated water park. At the Casitas Water Adventure, kids can tube on its lazy river or splash around in its water playgrounds. For those who love fishing, there are big bass, rainbow trout, crappie, redear sunfish, and catfish in the lake.
If you want to challenge yourself, then head to the 18-hole Coyote Point Disc Golf Course to hit some balls. Trails for walking and biking around the lake are great for enjoying the vistas or stopping for a snack in one of the picnic areas. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, like pelicans and vultures, as well as deer, foxes, and squirrels. There are also campgrounds named after these feathered and four-legged creatures that you can stay in so that you can wake up next to the lake.
Where to stay at Lake Casitas
There is an abundance of places to camp in the Lake Casitas recreation area. Altogether, there are 600 spots available that accommodate RVs and tents. These range from small dirt sites to executive hookups with water, electricity, and sewage facilities on a large-sized concrete pad. Book them up to 90 days before your trip on the recreation area website.
For those looking for a little more comfort, the Blue Iguana Inn in Ojai is a 3-star hotel with a pool, jacuzzi, and soaking tubs. It has 4.6 stars on Google Reviews, as visitors love its gorgeous suites with private balconies. If you want to stay close to California’s beaches, the Cliff House Inn on the Ocean is a short drive from the lake and close to the pier for Rincon Island. It has a 4.2 out of 5 rating on Google due to its beautiful views, outdoor pool, and private beach area. Anywhere that you stay close to Lake Casitas will give you the chance to experience California’s stunning natural landscapes in a relaxed style without having to leave this place too early!
