Castle Lake Swimming

Those that take the hour and a half car ride to Castle Lake are compensated with resplendent natural scenery. Nearly half of the lake is bound by cliffs and is a wondrous location to take a swim. There is a raft in the middle of the lake, which makes for a perfect place to rest in the summer sun.

We also suggest taking a hike uphill on the ridge on the east side of Castle Lake to a second excellent location for a dip. Heart Lake is a smaller than Castle Lake, but is deep enough for a swim. From Heart Lake, the views of Castle Lake, Mt. Shasta and beyond are simply breathtaking.

Directions: From Ashland, head to I-5 and go south towards California. You will travel south on I-5 into California, then take exit 738 toward Central Mt. Shasta. Turn right onto Lake St and then continue onto Hatchery Ln. Turn left onto S Old Stage Rd. Very quickly you’ll come to a fork where you’ll veer right onto W A Barr Rd. Continue on W A Barr Rd. for about 2.3 miles, where you’ll take a left onto Ney Springs Rd, then almost immediately a right onto Castle Lake Rd. Follow Castle Lake Rd for 7.1 miles to the lake.

Outdoor Recreation Safety Note: Please be sure to read our safety note on our Outdoor Recreation home page.