Lake Casitas Recreation Area

Economical for California and the area. Off the beaten path from all the craziness by the beach.

We are just passing through CA or it would not be my top spot. They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets. We paid online and we pull up and all of a sudden getting charged $5 a day extra for pets including a cat that doesn't leave the camper. Was not thrilled about that.

Otherwise, it was scenic, had a camp store, was close to restaurants, had a gate to drive into, so the place was pretty secure. Seemed like a lot of people gathered on the weekends.

We had the dirt campground which wasn't my favorite but all that was left, while the other campgrounds had cement pads. It was still pretty level.We did have cell reception, nice views and they had a water park for kids during summer months, though wasn't open while we were there.

This is a huge place, with lots to do.  Not a good place if you're looking for a low key, quiet, simple camping experience.  There's a water park here as well, currently closed for renovations but apparently opening soon (and apparently water park fees are rising from $17 to $23, not sure).

The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops, each with different amenities and vibe. 

There's a market here with basic fun camping supplies, as well as a propane tank to refill your RV tanks.  Price of propane is high here, but really there aren't many options in the area (there's a Corner Market down the road with very slightly lower prices).

The lake itself is beautiful and right in the middle of the entire recreation area. I believe boating and fishing is allowed but swimming is not - double check that info if that's important to you.

Good cell service here at the park but the entire area is iffy and you're driving around so heads up on that.

The sites are clean and the pads are very flat. Makes leveling a breeze. Great store with a ton of stuff from wood to ice to food, wine and kids toys.