Camping opportunities near Hemet, California range from high mountain forests to desert lowlands, with elevations spanning from 1,500 to 6,000 feet across the region. The San Bernardino National Forest campgrounds near Hemet typically record 20-30 degree temperature drops at night throughout the year, requiring appropriate clothing layers even during summer camping trips. Seasonal fire restrictions often limit campfire use during high-risk months.
What to Do
Hiking trails access: Stone Creek Campground features multiple trail connections directly from the campground. "There's a nice trail in the back of camp!" reports one camper, while another notes, "Multiple hiking trails led out of camp including one right from next to our site that led to multiple other trails heading up San Jacinto Mountain."
Mountain biking routes: Several campgrounds in the Idyllwild area offer access to popular mountain biking trails. At Idyllwild Campground, campers mention "lots of trails close to PCT and rock climbing by Humber Park" and note its convenience to biking terrain, with one camper specifically pointing out the "great little nature loop" around the campground.
Fishing options: Lake Perris and Lake Hemet provide different fishing experiences. According to a Lake Perris camper, "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun." Lake Skinner Recreation Area also offers fishing with special permit requirements, though one visitor notes "they charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake."
What Campers Like
High elevation cooling: Marion Mountain Campground sits at a higher elevation than many nearby options, providing relief from summer heat. One visitor notes, "It got really cold at night, about 10 degrees colder than Idyllwild Town limits," while another camper appreciated how "this site provides all the peace and tranquility a soul longs for."
Lake access and activities: Lake Hemet Campground offers water-based recreation beyond just fishing. A camper describes, "The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast! We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing. We didn't catch anything but we did see some bald eagles which was super cool!"
Proximity to town amenities: Several campgrounds offer easy access to nearby towns. One camper at Stone Creek describes it as "close to town but far enough to get away," while another notes that Idyllwild Campground is "within 5 minute walk of downtown Idyllwild" and provides a "great campsite within 5 minute walk of downtown idyllwild."
What You Should Know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Due to wildfire danger, restrictions change throughout the year. A visitor at Hurkey Creek Park noted, "Fires are allowed in the fire pits, of course," but campers should always check current restrictions before arrival.
Water levels fluctuate: Several lakes experience significant level changes. One Lake Hemet camper observed, "The premium lakefront sites are no longer lakefront due to the drought," while another mentioned, "When the water level is way up, it's even prettier!"
Weekend crowds vs. weekday solitude: Occupancy varies dramatically by day of week. A Marion Mountain camper reported, "We got lucky and went on a week day were the only ones camping there," while Lake Perris visitors noted weekend crowding with "lots of families with kids."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers family-friendly water features beyond the main lake. One camper highlights, "They have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost!" Another mentions, "Nice relaxing weekend get away, most of the full hook up spots are next to nice grass areas."
Dedicated play spaces: Several campgrounds offer designated children's areas. At Hurkey Creek Park, a camper notes "a private children's area" among the amenities, while another highlights "a large dirt area used for parking during the Balloon and Wine festival that kids can play on and ride bikes in."
Educational opportunities: Look for nature programs and learning activities. A Lake Skinner visitor mentioned, "There is a cool museum were the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," providing educational value for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort offers varied electrical options but with some limitations. One RVer cautions, "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."
Leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Marion Mountain, visitors note that "some sites are not flat" and "some of the sites are not level," with another camper observing that "most had a flat spot for a tent in for the picnic bench."
Seasonal road conditions: Mountain access roads can be challenging in winter months. One Idyllwild visitor advised, "It's a windy, windy road up into the mountains, and people travel too fast," while another noted that "higher elevation sites like Stone Creek Campground operate seasonally" due to road conditions.
