Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan a Cull Canyon lagoon visit with swim-season guidance, fees, cashless admission, lifeguard rules and the official park entrance in Castro Valley.
Swimming restriction
Swim only in the open, lifeguard-staffed lagoon. Do not use nearby creek photographs or park opening hours as swimming guidance.
Official sources checked:
Location
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
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Cull Canyon is a developed recreation-area swim complex, not an invitation to swim in Cull Creek. Its chlorinated lagoon has a sandy beach and seasonal lifeguard service. The district permits swimming only while lifeguards are on duty.
At the September 26, 2026 review, the posted season ends September 27, with late-season weekends and holidays open 11am to 6pm; water access ends at 5:30pm. Check the next published schedule before a later trip. Parking-lot opening does not mean the lagoon is open.
The park page lists free parking, but swimming admission is separate. Published walk-up rates are $5 for ages 18-61, $3 for ages 2-17 and seniors or disabled visitors, and free under age two. The kiosk is cashless. Check current rates and the separate preregistration terms before paying.
The district publishes different addresses for the park and swim complex: 18825 and 18627 Cull Canyon Road respectively. Use its linked Cull Canyon Road park entrance and follow facility signs. Our map pin marks that entrance, not a water-entry point.
The complex lists a bathhouse and first-come beach wheelchairs. Dogs, alcohol, glass containers and portable barbecues are not allowed inside the swim facility. Capacity limits can stop further admission, so consult the official preregistration option when planning a busy-day visit. Supervise children and follow staff instructions rather than treating shallow water as a guarantee of safety.
The saved candidate was linked to Cull Canyon Road and shows a rocky creek, not the managed lagoon. It has been withheld to avoid suggesting an unofficial swimming location. A correctly matched lagoon gallery is still needed.
Compare other California swimming destinations, checking each location separately. The former nearby-distance claim placing Sequoia National Park about 21 miles away has been removed.
Use the district's Cull Canyon Road park entrance link and follow signs to the swim complex. The map pin is the park entrance, not the beach. Check swim hours before leaving; parking access does not establish water access.
Swimming requires the lagoon to be open with lifeguards on duty. Park access, trails and parking hours are separate.
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Swim only in the open, lifeguard-staffed lagoon. Do not use nearby creek photographs or park opening hours as swimming guidance. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Park
18825 Cull Canyon Rd, Castro Valley, CA 94546
Fishing, seasonal swimming lagoon with sandy beach & picnic areas offered in 360-acre preserve.
Hiking area
Castro Valley, CA 94552
Hiking area
Castro Valley, CA 94552
Public bathroom
3333 East Ave, Hayward, CA 94541
Parking lot
Hayward, CA 94542
Campground
Castro Valley, CA 94552
Campground in Anthony Chabot Regional Park offering a variety of tent, RV & group sites.
Parking lot
W Loop Rd, Hayward, CA 94542
Park
1320 Garin Ave, Hayward, CA 94544
This natural area with hills, fields & streams houses a seasonal visitor center on ranching history.
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Not necessarily. Swim hours are separate and lifeguards must be on duty.
No. It has been withheld because it does not show the managed lagoon.
Follow lifeguard instructions; actively supervise children; do not swim after water access closes.
Managed by the East Bay Regional Park District.
A correctly matched lagoon gallery is still needed; the saved creek image is not used.
Stay in designated visitor areas and use waste facilities.
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Use this safety guide before entering any natural water.
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Plan this visit as day use.
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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