Don Castro Regional Recreation Area

Lake and Lagoon Features

The swim lagoon at Don Castro Regional Recreation Area becomes the heart of the park during summer months, drawing families from Hayward and Castro Valley to its sandy beach area that wraps around two sides. The lagoon water comes from EBMUD and is properly chlorinated and filtered, with a large shallow section roped off specifically for little ones.

The park itself covers 101 acres and centers around the man-made San Lorenzo Creek Reservoir, maintained by Alameda County Public Works. Just a heads-up: the reservoir is off-limits for swimming, boating, or any splashing around - the lagoon is where all the water fun happens.

Recreation Activities

The swim lagoon is popular with central Alameda County locals, especially from late May through September. You won't break the bank for a day of swimming either - entry runs about $3 for adults and $2 for kids under 16, with the tiniest tots (under 1) getting in free.

If hiking is more your thing, Don Castro has roughly 3.5 miles of trails that connect to the broader network including the Chabot-to-Garin Trail and a section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. These paths also link up with neighboring Five Canyons Open Space, offering plenty of options for nature walks and hillside views. The Whispering Creek Trail loops around the lagoon - keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like ducks, blue herons, geese, and kildeers going about their day.

A dirt trail winds along the shoreline between tall eucalyptus trees

Photo: vonguard (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Fishing Opportunities

Don Castro's lake offers good fishing opportunities. The waters are home to trout, bass, catfish, and bluegill, with regular stocking of trout and catfish to keep things interesting. Just remember to bring your California State fishing license if you're 16 or older.

A heron stands in the shallow waters of Don Castro Reservoir among bare winter branches

Photo: vonguard (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Picnic and Recreation Facilities

Scattered across the park are numerous picnic tables available on a first-come basis, plus reservable group areas for larger gatherings. Some picnic spots are nestled inside the swim complex, while others offer a bit more seclusion outside. BBQ pits are readily available, making it easy to turn a simple outing into a proper cookout.

For those feeling a bit more active, there's a volleyball court waiting for your next game, and plenty of open grassy areas ideal for frisbee, catch, or just lounging with a good book. Inside the swim area, you'll discover umbrellas providing much-needed shade on those hot summer afternoons.

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Amenities and Access

No need to rough it here - Don Castro offers clean restrooms with flush toilets and showers inside the swim area, plus outhouses stationed throughout the rest of the park. Drinking water fountains keep everyone hydrated during your visit.

The park typically charges around $5 per car for parking, but this fee is sometimes waived on weekdays. Open year-round from 8AM to 6PM, Don Castro is open year-round from 8AM to 6PM.

Your four-legged friends are welcome in most of the park and on the trails, but you'll need to leave them behind when heading to the swim lagoon area. Also worth noting - alcohol isn't permitted anywhere within the park boundaries.