Stone Creek Campground in Mount San Jacinto State Park offers camping at 4,000 feet elevation with distinct seasonal temperature variations. Located within minutes of Idyllwild, the campground features spacious sites surrounded by pine and manzanita trees. Winter temperatures can drop significantly at night while summer brings warmer days with cool evenings, creating ideal conditions for year-round outdoor activities.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 3 miles from town: Lake Skinner Recreation Area provides multiple trails for biking enthusiasts. "There are 3 different camping loops that seem to have their own personality. They have a kids playground, and a splash pad for the warmer months," explains david N., noting that many visitors bring bikes to enjoy the terrain.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Daily permits required: Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground offers productive fishing opportunities. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," reports John H., who regularly fishes there. Note that fishing requires a California state license plus a daily use fee.
Hiking to scenic viewpoints: Multiple difficulty levels: The area's elevation provides unique hiking experiences. "There is a nice mile hike around the perimeter of the park," shares Tom W. about exploring the trails. Many campgrounds connect directly to trailheads, allowing campers to access nature walks straight from their sites.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance: Idyllwild Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "Great campsite within 5 minute walk of downtown idyllwild. Plus less than 2 hours from drive to Palm Spring Tram up to Mt. San Jacinto and a great way to cool off in the summer or see snow in the winter. Showers and clean bathrooms!" notes Michael K.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening: Campers report seeing diverse wildlife including deer and birds. "We keep coming back here. Great little campground with clean air, starry skies and big trees," says Jeannie B., who enjoys the natural setting and animal spotting opportunities.
Family-friendly activities: Playgrounds and water features: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Hemet include dedicated recreation areas. "The pool seemed very nice & clean. The dog park was honestly amazing, I loved it & then dogs loved it," shares Alysa R. about her experience at a local campground.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds: Marion Mountain offers more secluded options. "Sites are nice and spacious but doesn't seem to have a whole lot of privacy. We got lucky and went on a week day were the only ones camping there," reports Shannon L. Weekday visits typically mean fewer neighbors.
Reservation systems differ by location: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come-first-served. "Was able to get a first come first serve site on a Saturday in October. Most sites were reserved but not everyone showed up. For first come first serve you must pay via cash or check using the drop box - no option for credit cards," explains Isabelle S.
Water availability is seasonal: Water access changes throughout the year at several locations. "It got really cold at night, about 10 degrees colder that Idyllwild Town limits. And there was a no open flame aloud because of how dry it was—which we did not know until we arrived. Might want to check that out," cautions Christian M.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Hurkey Creek Park offers family-oriented facilities. "A lovely campground located a mile away from Hemet lake. The creek is fun for the little ones to play.. hiking and relaxing area.. the views are great and it's never to over crowded," explains Renea B., who visits with her family.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevations cause significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Weather was cold and windy but not too bad. Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night," shares Donovan about his experience.
Consider site location within campgrounds: Some sites offer more privacy than others. "We decided 4 stars because the forest service failed to post our reservation for site #06 (which has the best view but not much shade). We were here mid July on a Thursday and there were only 2 other sites occupied. Beware the unreal amount of mosquitos," warns Collier T.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability before booking: Several pet-friendly camping areas near Hemet offer various hookup options. "Last minute booking... we got a site with no electricity just water and sewer. Got a bit warm but it was manageable," notes Raf A. about his experience at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Consider site levelness for larger rigs: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Campsites arent the biggest, and fairly close together. Lake is easy to get to from anywhere. Rental boats on the lake. Free showers, and good bathrooms," explains Ken B., noting that site selection impacts comfort.
Research generator policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working. This park is first come / first served and they don't prohibit a 30amp rig from taking a 50amp site, so you can see the problem," warns david N., suggesting early arrival to secure appropriate hookups.