Reservations are available and recommended, particularly for weekend visits, as Hurkey Creek fills to near capacity by Friday afternoon while remaining largely empty midweek. Managed by Riverside County, this established campground sits at roughly 4,000 feet elevation near Mountain Center, with 130-plus individual sites and several group areas spread across forested and open terrain. Nightly rates run $30 to $35, and RVs up to 30 feet can access water hookups. The campground is gated, staffed at the entrance, and open year-round.
Sites vary considerably in character. Those on the outer loops tend to have more space, and spots near the back of the park face toward the San Jacinto mountain range. Tree cover from Ponderosa pines, oaks, and cottonwoods provides shade across much of the campground, though that same canopy limits solar charging. Site numbering can be unclear, and at least one camper reports setting up in the wrong spot. Reviewers consistently note that the creek runs seasonally and may be dry depending on when you visit, but sites 92, 93, and 130 are specifically mentioned for creek proximity and sound.
Lake Hemet Campground sits just across the highway, where campers can fish and use non-motorized boats, though swimming and paddleboarding are not permitted. Hiking trails, including a stretch of the PCT, and mountain biking routes start near the campground, though trail signage is reportedly poor. The Hub Cyclery, a few miles up the road, is a useful stop for maps. Campers also note that a camping stay includes free entry to Idyllwild Nature Center.
Cell service is a real consideration here. T-Mobile has no signal throughout the campground, while Verizon provides workable, if slow, connectivity. The coin-operated showers are functional but known for strong water pressure and significant overspray. Groceries require planning: a small local market sits within ten minutes, but the nearest major store is about half an hour away on winding roads. Fire restrictions can apply during high fire danger periods, so it's worth confirming current conditions before arrival. "Due to severe wild fire risk at times this campground will not allow wood fires," Carrie H. notes, recommending callers confirm before heading up.
Hurkey Creek draws a family-oriented crowd, and the on-site playground sees regular use. Rattlesnakes are present in warmer months, and wildlife including coyotes and various creek animals are commonly reported after dark. Campers looking at places to camp near Mountain Center will find this one of the more developed options in the area, with full restrooms, showers, drinking water, and a dump station. It works well for families, dog owners, and anyone who wants established amenities without driving deep into the backcountry.
Description
Beautiful Hurkey Creek Park, located off of Hwy 74 in the San Jacinto Mountains just 4 miles southeast of Mountain Center, is the perfect locale for reconnecting with nature and our local mountain ecology. This idyllic getaway boasts a seasonal creek, majestic pine trees, awe-inspiring mountain views, and all the charms and tranquility of a classic woodland recreation area. The park’s rustic but well maintained campground offers 130 individual campsites for overnight or extended stays of up to 14 days, as well as large group camping areas in 5 separate loops that can accommodate 80-100 campers each. Popular activities for both campers and day-use guests include picnicking, BBQ, hiking, biking and bird-watching. The meadow offers a large area for outdoor games or group gatherings. For the younger set, there is a fun modern playground.
Fee Info
$30-35 per night (includes 6 people, 2 vehicles)
$6 additional vehicle fee
Current license, registration, and insurance is required when camping. For more information, please contact Guest Services. Observed park holidays can be found here.
Group Camping:
$280 per night (Minimum of 40 guests, paid in advance)
$7 each additional guest
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHurkey Creek Park is located in California near Mountain Center
Public CampgroundDirections
From LA/Riverside: Take I-10 East to Banning. Exit to 8th Street (Highway 243). Turn right on 8th Street, left on Lincoln, and right on San Gorgonio. Follow the Highway 243 signs past the town of Idyllwild to Highway 74. Turn left on Highway 74 and go 4 miles to the park entrance, which is on the left.
Address
56375 Hwy 74
Mountain Center, CA 92561
Coordinates
33.67703 N
116.68244126976995 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/18/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 8/18/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/18/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 8/18/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 45 min from San Diego, CA
- 2 hrs 4 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 2 hrs 16 min from El Centro, CA
- 3 hrs 14 min from Yuma, AZ
