Lake Casitas Recreation Area

Lake Casitas is Ventura County's drinking-water reservoir, run for recreation by the Casitas Municipal Water District at 11311 Santa Ana Road. It has a strict boat-entry program.

Layout

The recreation area has two launch ramps, Santa Ana and Coyote (the West Ramp). A marina and bait and tackle shop rent fishing boats, kayaks and canoes. The Santa Ana ramp has dry storage for 270 boats.

Strict boat rules

Every vessel, including canoes and kayaks, must pass an inspection by trained staff before entering. Casitas follows a zero tolerance policy, so any water, debris, condensation or growth on the boat, trailer or tow vehicle fails it. Boats that pass must serve a 35-day quarantine, either inside the recreation area or outside through the Tamper-Proof Tag Program. Failed boats can't be reinspected sooner than seven days later. Staff may also test bilge water microscopically.

Boat limits

Boats must be 11 to 35 feet long and at least 4 feet wide. Float tubes are not allowed. Boats of 26 to 35 feet need a staff inspection and a special permit, and inflatables must meet construction standards, including a solid floor or transom, at least three chambers and one foot of freeboard.

No body contact

Because it's a drinking water supply, there's no swimming, wading or body contact. Boating is limited to day use hours, and night boating is prohibited except for scheduled tournaments.