Don Castro Regional Recreation Area — Hayward
Tucked back in Fairview Hayward is Don Castro Regional Recreation Area, a place for swim, bbq, fishing, hikes, animal and bird spotting, beautiful flowers to see, and beach volleyball.
This is a local favorite for our family but not just for swimming. During the springtime, we particularly love to go to the “waterfall” aka the dam runoff. You can get there with just a short walk to San Lorenzo Creek from behind the picnic area in the parking lot or on the not-so-marked path on the kiosk side of the bridge opposite of the dam for quicker yet steeper access. Be prepared to see lots of plants (including poison oak), flowers, hugely tall trees with trunks it will take multiple people to reach all the way around, wild animals, and open fields.
Fishing is allowed in the river and lake area adjacent to the lagoon. Daily $5 permit and license required. There’s a small dock where fish, turtles, and various birds can be seen. Walking around the “backside” of the lake is another great alternative if swimming isn’t available. This trail eventually connects to the Chabot to Garin Regional Trail.
The swim area is great for all ages and levels of water comfortably. There are lifeguards, free-to-borrow life vests, and marked-off shallow areas. Swim fees are free under 1 year, $2.00 age 1-15, $3.00 age 16-61, $2.00 seniors 62+ or disabled. Pro tip: get the East Bay Regional Parks Family Pass for $105 for the year and gets free swim and parking at ALL EBRP spots!! Every so often the kiddos must take a 15 min water break and sand toys or snacks are a must to keep those water-loving kiddos occupied. All who pass a swim test are allowed access to the deep end including the deck for jumping off. There isn’t much natural shade on the sand area, but umbrellas are available first come first serve. You are also allowed to bring your own. There are picnic tables, bbqs, and grass both inside and outside of the swim fence. Three picnic areas inside the swim fence are reservable. Swim fee still applies. Bathrooms and showers are available.
A multilevel parking area with very close access to the swim lagoon gates is fee-based when the kiosk is staffed ($5); however, there is some street parking before the kiosk and in the neighborhood
