Don Castro Regional Recreation Area

Lake and Lagoon Features

Don Castro Regional Recreation Area is a 101-acre urban oasis located on the boundary between Hayward and Castro Valley in California. The park features a man-made lake, San Lorenzo Creek Reservoir, which is maintained by Alameda County Public Works and is closed to boating, swimming, or any type of body contact.

Adjacent to the reservoir is a swim lagoon, which is the park's main attraction during the summer months. The swim lagoon is supplied with water from EBMUD, chlorinated, and filtered. It has a large shallow area roped off especially for children, making it a popular spot for families. The lagoon features a sandy beach area on two sides, creating a beach-like experience for visitors.

Recreation Activities

The clear blue waters of the swim lagoon are a favorite with central Alameda County residents, particularly from late May through September. Entry fees for the swim lagoon are affordable at approximately $3 for adults and $2 for children under 16, with children under 1 free.

Don Castro offers approximately 3.5 miles of hiking trails that connect to the Chabot-to-Garin Trail, a segment of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, and the extensive trail system of the neighboring Five Canyons Open Space. These trails provide opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and enjoying scenic views of the Hayward Hills. Along the Whispering Creek Trail around the lagoon, visitors can spot local wildlife including ducks, blue herons, geese, and kildeers.

Fishing Opportunities

Fishing is another popular activity at Don Castro. Anglers can catch trout, bass, catfish, and bluegill in the lake. The lake is stocked regularly with trout and catfish, though a California State fishing license is required for anglers age 16 or older.

Picnic and Recreation Facilities

The park offers numerous picnic areas with tables available on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as reservable group picnic areas. Some of these picnic areas are located inside the swim complex, while others are outside. The park is equipped with BBQ pits throughout, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings and cookouts.

A volleyball court is available for visitors to enjoy, and the expansive grassy areas provide space for various recreational activities. The swim area includes umbrellas for shade, which are particularly welcome on hot summer days.

Amenities and Access

The park features clean restrooms with flush toilets and showers inside the swim area, as well as outhouses throughout the rest of the park. Drinking water fountains are available to keep visitors hydrated.

Don Castro Regional Recreation Area charges a parking fee (typically around $5 per car), though this is sometimes waived on weekdays. The park is open year-round from 8AM to 6PM and provides an important recreational resource for the local community, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, picnicking, and nature appreciation in a convenient urban setting.

Dogs are welcome in the park and on the trails but are not permitted in the swim lagoon area. Alcohol is not allowed within the park.