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.

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 on a first-come, first-served basis 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 and a snack bar 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.

For summer 2013, operating hours are Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday/Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pricing is $12 per person (free for under 12 months), $22 for a 2 day pass and $65 for a full-season pass. They offer "late day" passes for $5 (subject to cancellation) during the last 2 hours of operation each day. Casitas Water Adventure is open generally from late May through Labor Day weekend, so take advantage during the summer months!

Parking inside Lake Casitas is $15 on weekends ($10 on weekdays) and entrance into the water park is 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.