Casitas Water Adventure in Ventura

The Casitas Water Adventure is open throughout the summer. Children and adults alike can enjoy two distinct water playgrounds. For the younger children, a multi-level jungle gym with waterfalls, bridges and slides in a lagoon with water up to 18" deep. Parents can relax in a shady spot while the children play, or join their youngsters for a "splashing" good time.

For the whole family, the 1,200 foot long Lazy River offers a cool water ride on inner tubes along a scenic waterway featuring waterfalls, fog filled bridges and jet sprays. The inner tubes are available as singles, doubles or triples. And for the smallest of tots, a zero-depth pool sprays water from all angles, providing a safe, fun play area. Shaded decks, lounge chairs, showers, restrooms, a snack bar and mercantile are provided for comfort and convenience. Certified lifeguards are on hand at all times and life jackets are available at no extra charge while supplies last. Locker rentals are available for a nominal fee.

Lake Casitas Recreation Area is located at 11311 Santa Ana Road, Ventura. Take Highway 33 from Ventura towards Ojai, make a left turn on Santa Ana Blvd, then a righ on Santa Ana Road 3 or 4 miles to the park entrance. Visit www.casitaswater.org/lower.php?url=water-adventure for more information, including operating schedule/hours and prices or call 805.649.2233.  NOTE: Casitas Water Adventure is open generally from late May through Labor Day weekend, so take advantage during the summer.

We visited on a Sunday afternoon in mid-August 2010. Parking inside Lake Casitas was $15 ($10 on weekdays) and entrance into the water park was $12 per person (regardless of age). There is parking available on Santa Ana Road but we opted to park in the adjacent lot for $15. We had a lot of fun and both kids particularly enjoyed the Lazy River. There are some shady areas but do bring plenty of sunscreen as the sun beats down pretty hard out there. The water playground is definitely geared towards younger kids, with a large assortment of slides, water spouts and fun. My 7 year old seemed to quickly get bored in there though and he really loved the lagoon, which propels you round and round in a gentle current. Was fairly crowded but really wasn't bad at all...no lines whatsoever.