Everything went great at this place Well, organized and clean friendly atmosphere. All the best to management & crew. read more

We visit this lake often and enjoy it every time that we go! There is plenty to do there to meet many people's needs. On one side you can launch boats, kayaks, paddle boards and such. On the other side there are 5 or 6 different play areas, plenty of tables and even bbqs and bathrooms. Thankfully the bathrooms ass minimal but always clean. Sometimes we go on the lake, sometimes we just play in the sand, sometimes we go to the play grounds. We even ride our bikes there or go for a walk. There's so much to do for people who love the outdoors. It costs $12 to park for the day, then $9 to bring a kayak or paddle board. Since we go often we bought an annual pass for parking. It's usually pretty chill. During holidays or summers it can get more crowded. We went on the 4th of July and parking was closed by noon. Definitely check it out! read more

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Coordinates to the fishing pier (lagoon) 34.50081° N, 118.60793° W Castaic Lake may be a different experience with a boat but we came without to check it out. It was a bit confusing at first because we tried the fishing pier (hence the coordinates above, in case anyone has some trouble finding it like we did in the early morning hours). We then worked our way over to the main lake but the fishing was not a successful trip. Overall it was nice lake to check it out since it's not too far away. read more

What a beautiful day for some SUP. Arrived about 10:30am and water was calm. Inspection was easy because our birds were COMPLETELY dry and had not been used since August. These are the things they ask: name of boards? When we're they last used? We're they put away dry? Do you have a life vest for each board? First timers get additional questions like name, address, etc., but once you're in the system, like we are, they pretty much ask if it's all still the same and just jot down what they have on the paperwork. That stays with you. Parking pass($12 as of 10/17/22), SUP launch x 2 ($9 as of same date) = $18, and we're in! Pull to launch on lower lake - no one around - SWEEET! Put our towels, equipment, snacks, drinks, etc on table under shady tree, off loaded our boards and friend parked car in nearby lot w/ parking pass taped to driver's side, inside windshield. Launched our boards, paddled for a little over an hour and conditions were great. Came back in for a rest, my friend ordered some food for pickup from nearby Casa Lupita(see separate review), went to pick it up - because parking pass is good for all day re-entry - while I did some SDP (SIT DOWN PADDLING! ;-)). When she came back we ate our yummy burritos, played some cards, then got back in the water around 3pm. Breeze had picked up a TINY bit, so still good for paddling around. Came back in around 4pm, packed up everything and left around 4:45. FUN! All day we saw just 2 motorboats, 2 non motorized fishermen, and a few people sprinkled around the shores fishing. I'd consider that empty on a Monday. Bathrooms next to lower lake launch area get cleaned each day and were clean and operating fine each time we used. Shout out to Lifeguard John who helped us with some equipment issues and made for an even better experience! read more

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The actual lake is wonderful and not the problem. My problem is with the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation Department . I paid for an annual pass two months ago and now they are shutting down June and maybe part of July. Also shutting down two day a week. They mishandled the money so they say. But they have money for other celebrations and installing transformers to keep people out? Is there a lawyer out there than help. I know suing them is almost impossible but they are negligent and took money knowing that we wouldn't have access to the lake. They are so corrupt and it makes so sad that there is no consequences. read more

Wow! Visited swimming area on Sunday August 11, 2024 and was disgusted. It was so bad that I will not be returning unless there are some drastic changes. Drive from LA county was about an hour. I called and spoke to a staff a day before to prepare myself. They do not allow floaties and life jackets need to be certified. Arrived around 5:30 AM as suggested by the staff (he said Sundays are the most packed) but you don't have to arrive so early unless you have no portable tables. I was not prepared with some essentials here like additional tables and canopy for shade. Hammocks are a must here and if you can claim a spot right in front of the swimming area i highly recommend it. These areas by the trees will have shade through the day. The bathrooms were full of toilet paper, every single stall. You couldn't avoid stepping on used tampons, pads and toilet paper through out the whole day. They never got cleaned. The trash bins were overflowing with trash and bird had all night to go through it and make more of a mess. It got picked up before 10 AM. The beach was never cleaned. There was left over trash and bird feathers everywhere. It was horrifying how trashed this lake is. $12 a parking for this poop show is ridiculous. We got kicked out the lake because someone pooped in it. Whoever did it would rather poop in the lake than those disgusting restrooms. read more

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The staff here are amazing!!!! Okay, I meant to write this review 2 months ago. I am a new boat owner and still learning a TON. It was my first time taking my new boat out without anyones guidance, and of course, being inexperienced, I unknowingly took it out on a super, like super windy day, with 25+ mph winds! And again, being naive and inexperienced, I launch my little boat, immediately regretting it hahaha. And being new to all of this at the time, I had no confidence or knowledge to properly retrieve my boat out of that, mess, to say the least hahaha. The workers, working at the launch ramp SAVED ME!!! They were all so beyond super nice, awesome, and helpful! I asked if they could help me retrieve my boat, cause, I didn't know what to do hahaha, and oh my gosh. I am beyond thankful for them! They all helped me and only thanks to them we were able get the boat back on the trailer with those crazy winds. A MASSIVELY HUGE SHOUTOUT TO KEARNS, HOGGIE, AND BURNETT!!!!! I CAN NOT THANK YOU GUYS ENOUGH AND HOPE YOU READ THIS!!! They were so helpful and so kind! Didn't take money or anything! Amazing workers! So sorry it took so long to write a review! I didn't forget! Get them a raise frickin immediately! They definitely made it a memorable first experience hahahaha! May the Lord BLESS all of you!!! read more

We as a family really liked it, we are happy and are planning to come here again, we liked the trampoline for children, it is very cool, a very clean and well-kept place read more

Had an amazing time would come back great spot to go fishing and close to six flags so kids can do rollercoasters and the boys can relax and go fish read more

Castaic Lake - Me - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

Great Lake and clean. However, this place is Nazi Germany when it comes to boat inspections. I have never failed one but i avoid Castaic just based on their annoying inspections. Also the life guards on the water who think they are cops are just as annoying. Fees are too high. "Do you have your boating license sir." Just gtfo. This place is operated by Newsom himself. read more

Bass gods answered tonight!! My mom with her first big boy Castaic lagoon night fishing read more

Castaic Lake - Catch and release - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

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We camped here for 2 nights, and went fishing, and kayaking on the lake. (Of course you need a fishing license for those asking.) I suggest looking on the website and reading the regulations so that you may have the most enjoyable experience. It was $9.00 to kayak and your kayak will be inspected. The camp sites are all $30/night. I liked the site we camped in but next time Im going to look for the lake view sites. I notice that they book out pretty fast at this site. Swimming ends after labor day I believe so best to go the dares that the swim beach is open if you want to go for a dip. This lake is beautiful. I truly enjoyed fishing and kayaking here, and next summer, Im coming out here to swim/snorkel. I want to especially express my gratitude for the staff. The guy that inspected our kayak was so nice and helpful. We spent a total of 69.00 for 2 nights camping and kayaking. They sell firewood as well on the site. I cannot believe after kayaking, I dropped my phone off the boat launch dock into the water while unloading. I notified the guy that does the boat check in and he notified base, who notified the lifeguard. Would you believe that the lifeguard came boating over to the dock, put on his dive mask, and dove in to look for my phone? Took him about 7 minutes in and out but he found it and my phone worked! I am so grateful for Richard Curl and I hope that he sees this review. I thought my phone was a lost cause at the bottom of the lake but he took the time and effort to get in that cold water at the end of the afternoon and retrieve my cell phone for me. Words cannot express my appreciation for him. If you are looking for a campsite that allows fire pit, fishing, swimming, kayaking, then this is tge lake. I like camping near water and Lake Castaic is a huge lake. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and I will be back! Thanks to all staff who help make this place thrive. read more

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The obstacle course on the lake looks fun but it's packed with all these children and you can't get in the water anywhere near it. The side of the lake that you can swim in, is very murky and you can't even see the bottom. You can't take floaties because they'll start running towards you screaming "hey you can't swim over there! No floaties! Get out of the water!" (Happened to me, I have it on video) The workers will literally scream at you if you decide not to step in the murky water. read more

because of where it's located in all the surrounding stores in different places that you can get stuff for the day and it's a big big lakes fishing is great I am not been there in a long time but unless something drastic has happened it's one of the best lakes out there you can fish from the dock or the shore or you might still be able to get a boat . I live in Lancaster so we have Apollo Park and it's the best it's also free to park and fish you just gotta make sure you have your fishing license read more

Beautiful clean lake. Came in early, lots of parking space. Water is clear, lots of fish swimming. Not crowded. Came on a Sunday. $12 for the day pass. Very relaxing, chill, lots of trees for the shade. I've seen people kayak, and ride the boats. They are pet friendly as long as you have them on the leash. There's multiple stalls bathroom. Bathroom is well maintained. Will definitely come back. read more

Castaic Lake - Lake fishing - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

Beautiful lake but I will NEVER go back. My experience described by local vendor as "sounds like to got the standard Castaic experience." I usually take my paddle board to Pyramid Lake and have a great time but was heading out yesterday later than anticipated and this was a little closer so gave it a try. I initially pulled up to the entrance on Lake Castaic road that my GPS took me to. They were nice but explained you can't launch from here as this area was only open to people not accessing the water. They directed me to another entrance on the other side of the dam. Dove there and upon arriving they stated paddleboards are not allowed on this side of the dam because of boat traffic and to go back down. I informed them the people on the other side sent me here. A group of 5-6 people in the security shed left me sitting there for 15 min while they radioed a bunch of people. They finally came back and said go to the RV parking you can launch from there. Drove to RV parking who stated there is no launching from there and again sent me to another location. When I finally got to the correct (forth) location they began very aggressively telling me to show them "tags" and prepare for inspection. I respectly told the gentleman this was my 1st time here and I wasn't aware of what he was asking me for but that I wasn't aware I needed any sort of registration or license for a paddle board. I laid everything out for them to see and they told me it would be $38.00 for parking and boat fee. I asked them if there was a discount for active duty military (the other lakes all offer) and if a boat fee was supposed to be charged for a paddle board as the other lakes don't charge a boat fee for this. He very rudely responded no discounts for anyone for anything, $38 dollars I don't care why you think you're special. All I did was ask a question. After all of that I finally got on the water and paddled out to a little beach of on the far side of the lagoon where there were many people and other paddleboards had paddled up as well. Almost immediately a lifeguard boat beached itself and came up to me and asked about my dog (she was on the board with me). He told me to make sure to keep her on a leash, which she was, and I told him absolutely I'm not trying to cause any problems and he left. Within 5 mins he drove his boat back onto the beach and began berating all of the paddle boarders saying the beach is closed to swimmers, you can't sit on a board in the water. Either beach the boards in the sand or paddle back "wading in the beach water" is not allowed. This didn't seem to make nor were there any signs stating this. After harassing 5 or 6 beach goers individually for the crime of going in the water he again got in his boat and left. Again, about 10 minutes later he beached his boat a 3rd time and told me alcohol is not allowed anywhere in the lake or park. I'd been holding the beer through now all 3 altercations now with now mention, there were again no signs stating this, and everyone on the beach or BBQing in the park just off the sand had a cooler. He told me to pour it out, which I did without arguing, and he went on to hassle everyone else at beach and park about it. Then he came back to me and told me to open my cooler and there could be a fine of $200 per beverage in my cooler. I again asked him where the sign was stating no alcohol in the park. He told me "the rules changed and people should know." At this point I'm royally pissed at how my day at the lake has gone and asked him for a badge number. He told me he didn't have because he's a lifeguard. I then told him "I've been very respectfully and compliant but at this point what you're doing is harassment and if he didn't have a badge I wasn't opening my cooler and he could hop back in his little boat and F$$k off." Then I paddled back to the launch point and started breaking things down to leave. A nice lady who rents boards and things asked me how my day was and told her honestly I didn't see myself ever coming back and explained my day to her. She said "That's why locals won't come here and this place is empty most of the time." 90% of the people I talk to have a similar experience. Disorganized and rude staff hassling everyone when they aren't doing anything wrong." Hope to see you again but totally understand why I probably won't. read more

Omgggggg!! Watched a movie on a boat here they were sold out and my mom got me a VIP boat and it was amazing front row and watching Jaws the movie on the lake it was so beautiful and such an amazing experience it's not all the time that they have this going on but I definitely will be back when they have it again!! Lots of parking in the middle of no where but worth the drive read more

Castaic Lake - Watching a movie on a boat! - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

Cool place to fish. Lots of parking near the dock. Other patrons seems respectful of each other's space. Portable bathroom near the lake was blown out, but if you don't mind walking or a small drive there are better restrooms near the pay booth by the entrance/exit. read more

Castaic Lake - Gone fishing - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

Depending on what you're coming here for, this place is so beautiful and a perfect place to bring your pets, friends, family, and especially if you have kids. There's so much open space and different ways you can walk that all have fantastic views. It's best to go when the weather is nice so you're able to walk around comfortably and can stay awhile. My favorite time is a little bit before sunset. Everyone is usually really nice and doing all sorts of activities. There are plenty of benches, grills, playgrounds, open spaces of grass and also parking along the streets before you turn right @ the stop sign (if you don't want to pay $12 for parking) and the walk to & fro is not bad at all! There's all different types of hiking trails further up the hill and even a lookout; just keep driving up a little and you'll see everyone parked in in different dirt areas. My favorite is the "3rd dirt area" as you keep going. Perfect for lovebirds and stoners, of course. read more

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If it's your first time, You have to have a dry vessel ! Absolutely dry and free of any moisture or water. If there is any water , from other lakes or ocean or even from your hose water at home, and I mean as little as a drop, you will not pass the inspection. You will waste your time in line. They will mark you down and you'll have to come back in 8 days. Any water on your boat including on or in the jet engine, propellers or even in your flush whole, instant fail, they will turn you away. It won't matter if you hosed your boat down the day before with fresh water???? They will even ask you to turn on your engine for a few seconds just to see if anything spits out. They will go inside your boat and check all areas that water may linger. Be patient, there is limited staff. They will get to you. Most waiting is due to inspections. The staff was very helpful. Very nice . The lake is absolutely amazing and that's cause they are really strict AF. Not much fun for PWCs like jet skis, small area for those to play around. Restrooms on the lake water are broken all of the time, so go before you get on the water or good luck If you do end up making it through and you plan on coming back to the lake, make sure to get a tag on the way out. Ask what time to be back to get a tag "very important" Getting a tag on the way out ensures that you can come back to the lake without your vessel having to go through a rigorous boat inspection. Also a castaic lake tag is also good to go for pyramid lake inspection, however, A pyramid lake tag is not good for Castaic lake unless 8 days have passed. Make sure to call if you have any questions. read more

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I have a soft spot for lakes since I grew up on a lake.  This lake impressed me because it has floating outhouses on the lake where you can drop a deuce instead of in the water.    There are small boats available for rent at the landing and the lake doesn't seem to be overcrowded.  I'm not sure about the fishing on the lake but if you get here early enough you might get lucky to find calm waters.  In the afternoon the wind picks up and the water is rough for skiers and wake boarders. read more

Castaic Lake - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

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Loved this spot yesterday. Took our toddler there to get some time in the water. Only one swim beach but we got there at 11am and it was fairly busy. There were still a few shady options under trees and people seemed to be able to keep distance Safely. We left about 12:30 and it was getting busier. They did open up a second part of the lake for swimming since more people were arriving. For smaller kids I think earlier in the day is better, water is lovely to swim in and the guards are nice. $11 to get in which is fine. Only thing is there is a lot of wildlife poop around, mostly from the geese and ducks bring wipes! read more

Castaic Lake - Cased in swimming area. - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

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Drove up from LA to go Paddle boarding. $12 to park and $9 for each paddle board. Plus inspection and paperwork. If you board inflatable or not has any water on it. If you are pumping air don't let any sweat fall on it they will BAN you for 8 days (those were the attendants words once I woke him up in the booth). I have been on this lake before boating and it was not as strict. He added that if it is windy I can't go out. Yet he did not know if it was he would have to call to ask. I get it we have to pay for maintenance and his pay and other things but it really wasn't worth it for me. I had already wasted gas to get there wasn't gonna throw money away (it's the principle) as I drove away there were only a few cars and know one in sight on the water. I gave 2 stars because I know the water is good but the bureaucracy is NOT. read more

Castaic Lake is a Great Lake. If you are looking for a day trip to relax and catch some California sunshine look no further. You can take a walk on the water and watch the boats cruise by. They have a area that is for swimming only. There are lots of spots to cast a rod and fish. You can also use the campgrounds and pitch a tent or take a Rv. The grounds are always clean and the staff are professional and friendly. Although they don't have a store on site that sells food. They have boat rentals, bait, and snacks available. read more

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Beautiful beautiful lake. You have the Laguna and the main lake. Both beautiful and you can pay once $11 and get access to all parking lots (I visited 3 of them). I personally think that $11 is little too much. But worth it. People here are very nice and the woman at the entrance was very friendly and helpful. Came here for fishing, but there are many things to do here. No luck with fishing. Tried 7-10:30 AM at the laguna. No bites this time. But this is not the last time. Lake was not full. Many boats and some fishermen and that is it. Happy I came here. Will return for more fishing. read more

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So I grew up with a house on a lake in Texas and being on a lake is completely different from being at the ocean. I haven't been to too many lakes in California, but this one was okay. I liked that they are constantly coming around rangers, lifeguards and even sheriffs because it actually shows they don't tolerate people getting out of control. The one thing I didn't care for was the $11.00 parking fee when we were having a day trip with some friends who were camping. But except for that it was okay. read more

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We were inviting to ride on a boat plus be pulled on a two man water float. It was a hot summer Saturday and the lake was busy but not overwhelmingly crowded. Bring plenty of sun screen and a nice size rimmed hat to keep the scorching sun off of you. To enter in my car was only $11 and make sure you park in a car spot or you will get ticketed. read more

Castaic Lake - Funday Saturday - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

Lake Catstiac is beautiful. It is not that far from Los Angeles, and it definitely worth the drive to the lake. We usually come here during the spring or fall, and the best part is that we all find something to do. Some like water sports, some like fishing, and some just enjoy the view. The down side, the restrictions and the ways they are being enforced. As if the people here think that if there is a law, you need to follow it and makeup new laws. So take it easy, let the visitors enjoy. Yes do your job, but do not try to over do it. read more

Castaic Lake - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

A beautiful, 9,000 acre park featuring many of your favorite water and outdoor activities such as fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, and camping! The lake is a water reservoir located just north of Santa Clarita off Interstate 5 Freeway. Parking is $11/standard. If you are launching a boat/kayak, the launching pad is not in the same area as where the address is located on this page. For map directions, refer to their website. Additional Fees: Non-motorized (kayaks, canoes)- $7 Motorized- $13 Tent/RV Camping- $20/day If you are launching a boat/kayak/etc., it needs to be 100% DRY or else you will fail inspection. They can be very strict on the policy, so PLEASE check their regulations on their main website before going. Also, you need to have life jackets if you're using a boat. There is a Walmart a few miles down the lake where you can buy them for $6 each. I went bass fishing on a kayak and enjoyed myself very much. Make sure to purchase fishing licenses online beforehand. They do offer rentals for specific equipment. Call ahead to see what's available and the pricing. I saw there was a small dock area that people used to fish. If you are camping, I highly suggest you reserve ahead of time online. Overall, the lake was clean, beautiful, and peaceful. I definitely will be back! read more

Castaic Lake - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

I was very disappointed with this lake. I had paid for a parking pass and then they said my boat didn't pass inspection because of rain water! When going back to the front desk for a refund on the parking ticket they said no. Are you kidding me! They made us pay before getting inspected which makes no sense. DONT COME HERE. read more

Is very clean,the only thing you need to watch out for are skunks,those little Armenia like to hang out there .but it is clean and so are the restrooms,I would recommend this lake to my family and friends,great for parties and get togethers read more

Came here for first time fishing. They sent us to the West Ramp which costs $11 per car to park which is a little pricy but the area is nicely kept and it provides restrooms, picnic areas, and bbq grill. It is clean and has good shaded spots with cement tables for the entire family. I caught one large mouth bass but too small to keep. My other 4 friends did not catch anything so I don't know what to say about the success of the lake in fishing. Some days you won't catch anything so keep that in mind. Nice just to even chill and watch the dim sunrise light across the lake. read more

Little hot but many activities to participate in for small fees/ free. Book ahead of time (3-6 months for summer season due to travelers* if you're camping). Fishing license required if you fish off land/boat; however there is a small dock where you can fish for free. No casting from dock. Paddle boating and kayaking available for small rental fee and lessons. I'd suggest to look online for specifics http://www.castaiclake.com/camping.html Youth day/weekend camps for lifeguards or leadership growth offered. No showers available or hookups for RVs (at least I don't think so).* RV Park down the street not officiated with CA Park. Small parking fee for everyday of stay. Must have reservations ahead of time and camping with tent in designated areas. Castaic Lake - Main Office Castaic Lake Recreation Area 32132 Castaic Lake Drive Castaic, CA 91384 General Information: (661) 257-4050 Fax Number: (661) 257-3759 Camping Reservations - 7 days/week (8 AM - 4 PM): (661) 257-4050 Boating Instruction Safety Center (BISC): (661) 257-4050 read more

Castaic Lake - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

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It's hard for me to write a 5 star review because of the crazy California rules. If you are coming to this lake and there is even one drop of water from a melted ice cube dry it out!! They will NOT let you on the lake. Then they ban you for 8 days. We had the worst first experience with this. Same with lake pyramid their sister lake. And as a lake girl my whole life I was shocked and frustrated by this strictness of these people. Just wanted to warn you. Once you get on the lake it's cool, but you can't park it anywhere and get out bc the banks are too soft. Pyramid is better for that, but pyramid is further. I also like the staff at castaic a bit better read more

Beautiful and nice area. Good for having fun and relaxing with your friends and family read more

Castaic Lake - Beautiful space and area. Good for having fun and relaxing with your family - Lakes Near Me - Santa Clarita, California

I read some of the negative reviews regarding rude/strict personnel but thankfully I didn't have that experience. We brought a canoe and a kayak in to the lower lagoon and the inspection was brief and fairly polite. Just make sure your gear is 100% DRY. We went on a weekday and there was hardly anyone there, very nice peaceful morning on the lake. There isn't a ton to explore but it makes for a chill time on flat water that is actually pretty clean compared to, say, Lake Balboa (gross). It's a little on the pricey side (12 bucks to get in and another 9 bucks per non-motorized vessel) but it's not terrible considering what your options are in the LA area. read more

Came here for a nice morning getaway from the city. There was an entrance fee of 11.00 per vehicle and there is a lot of parking. This lake also has a boat launch making it perfect if you have a boat under the size of 23 feet (since there is a size limit) or if you have jet skis. I usually come here for morning fishing. Today the fishing was kind of slow, but we did catch a nice size 4 pound striped bass. Make sure I have your fishing license on you (as you always should!) They will come and check! If you're a newbie, you can always grab a license at big 5. For a one day fishing pass, it's 15.00. I really like this lake because if you fish off the dam, it's more of a concrete terrain and there isn't as many bugs. The bathrooms are pretty clean and well stocked with toilet paper. There are also picnic tables and a playground for the kiddies. read more

Best place for bbq and swimming It's $12 entry Very clean and quite nice I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves swimming read more

Never taking my family here again for a swim... Kids can't play with balls inside the water without "LIFEGUARDS" Micromanaging & making people feel uncomfortable... SAFETY or OVER REGULATED ? read more

This review is for the fishing and boat rental. I normally come here to take my kayak out and fish, it is a beautiful lake just make sure your vessel is bone dry, that way you don't fail inspection and have to wait about 8 days until you can try again. The people that work there have been friendly and helpful. The place does get windy from time to time but when it isn't the fishing is really fun. They have bluegill, crappie, catfish, striper, largemouth bass and trout so sometimes I end up bring more rods than i should. Lake as of today is a little low, but it is slowly coming back up. Boat rentals are pretty affordable and they have good rates, if you want to bring your own fish finder and trolling motor to add on to increase your chances, you can do that as well. read more