We spent the Memorial Day weekend attending a Scottish festival at Orange County Fairgrounds. Camped in the overflow parking amidst land yachts and other tenters. After way too much partying with the Scots and drum and bagpipe competitions, we needed a day to decompress before getting home. Living in Idyllwild, Hurkey Creek is less than 10 miles away. I called them ahead of time and checked to see if they had any spaces. “Oh! Please come in, everyone left this morning”

We chose a spot near the now dry creek, tossed our cots and sleeping bags out and we just sat in the silence. The spot was on a hike and bike trailhead but few people came through and, we only saw one other couple camping the entire stay. Evening was warm enough to sleep outside. Although fires are allowed, we didn’t feel the need.

The campground is part of the Riverside County Parks system and, being an older park, it could use some tlc. Showers are coin operated and will blow you out of the stall if you aren’t ready. Tip-put your dry stuff as far away from the stall as possible. The overspray will soak everything in its path!

Staff and volunteers are fabulous and very accommodating. They don’t hang you up with rules and regulations and treat you like adults. I purchased a Year day-use pass so we can just go to the park and chill for the day if we need to.

Great visit and we’ll definitely be back!