Lake Castillon: Swimming, Kayaking and Discovery from Castellane
Just 3 km from the Campsite La Ferme de Castellane, just a few minutes’ drive away, Lake Castillon is one of the hidden gems of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This dam-formed lake with its turquoise waters, situated on the River Verdon, offers the perfect setting for swimming, kayaking and relaxing in the heart of nature.
With its 7 km length and unspoilt shores, Lake Castillon appeals to families and water sports enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the shadow of the Provençal mountains, it is therefore an unmissable stop on your holiday in the Gorges du Verdon.
Our campsite is therefore your Ideal base for exploring Lake Castillon and all the natural sites of Castellane. Lac de Castillon in the morning, Gorges du Verdon in the afternoon — the perfect itinerary for a successful nature break.
The Castillon lake, a natural gem of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
Lake Castillon was created by the EDF Castillon dam, which came into operation in 1948. It now stretches over more than 7 km long, covering an area of around 500 hectares. Its waters, with their distinctive turquoise blue colour, reflect the limestone cliffs and pine forests that surround it.
The lake is fed by the Verdon, before this wild river enters the famous Gorges. The water here is fresh and relatively calm, and deep enough for swimming. In July and August, the temperature often exceeds 22-24 °C — perfect for cooling down after a hike.
The villages of Saint-Julien-du-Verdon and Demandolx overlook the shores and offer breathtaking views. A picturesque road winds its way round the lake, making it ideal for a leisurely exploration by bike or car.
- Surface area : around 500 hectares
- Length 7 km
- Maximum depth: 90m
- Elevation 797 m
- Distance from Castellane As the lake is very large, the distance varies depending on the access point — 3 km to the nearest shore, around 15 minutes (12 km via the D955) to the organised beach at Saint-Julien-du-Verdon
The essential activities at Lake Castillon
Lake Castillon is a paradise for lovers of water sports and the great outdoors. Here are the must-see attractions during your visit:
- Swimming Several equipped beaches welcome families throughout the summer. The calm, turquoise water is perfect for children and adults alike.
- Kayaking and canoeing Boats are available for hire on the shores during the season. Exploring the lake by paddle is still the best way to discover its hidden coves.
- Stand-up paddleboard ideal for silently gliding on calm waters, with views of limestone cliffs.
- Fishing The lake is renowned for its trout and zander. A fishing licence is required (from the local AAPPMA).
- Hiking The paths around the lake offer panoramic views of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
- Picnic There are plenty of shaded spots along the banks where families can settle down.
How to enjoy Lake Castillon from Castellane
Access and parking
To join the the developed beach at Saint-Julien-du-Verdon From Castellane, follow the D955 — the journey takes about 15 minutes. There are several parking areas along the riverbanks. For families with young children, the swimming area at La Palud-sur-Verdon offers easy access to the water. Access is free outside the designated bathing areas. The bank closest to the campsite is just 3 km away.
The best time to visit
Lake Castillon can be reached from’April to October. July and August are the busiest months, with lively kayak rentals and swimming. In June and September, the lake is calmer – ideal for fishing and leisurely hikes. Even off-season, the panoramas of the cliffs and perched villages are striking.
Back at the campsite, the heated swimming pool at Camping La Ferme takes over from 1 May to 30 September, so you can keep enjoying a swim without having to set off again.
Combine Castillon Lake and Verdon Gorge
A stay at Camping La Ferme de Castellane allows you to easily combine visits to the region’s two iconic sites. In the morning, go for a swim or a kayak ride on Lake Castillon — in the afternoon, explore the Gorges du Verdon from our campsite. The result: a full day out in the countryside, without wasting any time on the road.
The best-rated campsite in Castellane — your ideal base for Lake Castillon and the Gorges du Verdon.
Frequently asked questions about Lake Castillon
Can you swim in Lake Castillon?
Yes, there are several swimming areas along the banks. The water is calm and shallow at the edges, and easily reaches 22–24 °C in July and August. It is therefore ideal for families with children.
How to rent a kayak at Lake Castillon?
Kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire is available right on the riverbank in July and August. Expect to pay around €15–20 per hour for a single kayak. So make sure you go early in the morning to ensure availability.
Is Lake Castillon suitable for children?
Absolutely. Beaches with designated shallow areas are ideal for families. Swimming there is therefore calmer and safer than in the Verdon. Make sure you bring swim rings and armbands for the little ones.
Can one fish in Lake Castillon?
Yes, fishing is permitted on the lake with a valid fishing licence (from the local AAPPMA). Trout, zander and pike are the main species found there.
What is the distance between Camping La Ferme de Castellane and the lake?
As the lake is very large, the distance depends on your starting point: allow 3 km to the nearest shore, and around 15 minutes (12 km via the D955) to the organised beach at Saint-Julien-du-Verdon. This trip can easily be combined with a visit to the Gorges du Verdon on the same day.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Area | around 500 hectares |
| Length | 7 km |
| Altitude | 797 m |
| Summer temperature | 22-24 °C (July-August) |
| Activities | Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing |
| From Castellane | 15 minutes (D955) - 12 km from the campsite |
Set off to explore Lake Castillon from our campsite in Castellane.
Book your accommodation at Camping La Ferme de Castellane — 15 minutes from the lake, 5 minutes from the Gorges du Verdon.