Castaic Lake closed to swimmers for summer due to drought conditions

CASTAIC LAKE, LOS ANGELES COUNTY (KABC) -- Castaic Lake State Recreation Area beaches have been closed to swimmers, L.A. County officials announced Thursday.

California's ongoing drought has caused extremely low water levels, forcing the closure of Castaic Lake beaches to public use for the entire summer.

Receding water levels created conditions deemed unsafe to the public, Department of Parks and Recreation officials said.

Under normal circumstances, the Castaic Lake swim beaches would be open Thursday through Sunday from the last week of May until September 1. This year, receding water levels have created conditions that Department of Parks and Recreation officials have deemed unsafe, particularly for patrons who may lack advanced swimming skills.

Currently no other recreational activities have been reduced. Kayaking, float-tube fishing and stand-up paddle-boarding are expected to remain available, officials said, but continuing water level depletion may change that access. Motorized boating and other aquatic activities may also be affected by further decreases in the water level.

Before making plans to visit Castaic Lake, patrons are urged to call (661) 257-4050 for the latest information on conditions at the lake.

"Castaic Lake remains a wonderful place to visit, with a variety of options for fun, healthy recreation -- but the state drought emergency is affecting many aspects of life in California, and we will not compromise on matters of safety," said Parks Director Russ Guiney said. "We encourage people to visit this scenic area for the many other recreational opportunities it provides."