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Campgrounds near Hemet, California range from developed facilities to primitive sites across several recreation areas. Lake Hemet Campground and Hurkey Creek Park offer tent, RV, and cabin camping options with lakefront access, fishing, and shaded sites backed by San Jacinto Mountain views. The San Jacinto Mountains provide a backdrop for camping at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet, with most developed campgrounds concentrated along Highway 74 and in the mountain communities surrounding Idyllwild.
Road conditions and seasonal considerations affect camping accessibility in the region. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though higher elevation sites like Stone Creek Campground operate seasonally from mid-May to mid-September. A camper noted, "Due to severe wildfire risk at times this campground will not allow wood fires (only propane). Check website or call to confirm before heading up." Summer temperatures can reach the 90s at lower elevations, while winter brings occasional snow to higher campgrounds. Lake Hemet and surrounding areas experience significant temperature drops at night even during summer months, requiring appropriate gear. Cell service varies throughout the region, with most coverage limited to areas near towns.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at Lake Hemet and Hurkey Creek Park. Several visitors highlighted the fishing opportunities and mountain views as key attractions. According to one review, "Hurkey Creek Park is located on the other side of Lake Hemet. Campsites are well shaded in some areas and if you reserve a spot at the back of the park you will have an amazing view of The San Jacinto mountain range." For those seeking more solitude, the Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Sites provide free primitive camping with minimal amenities but spectacular views overlooking Lake Hemet. These first-come, first-served sites require high-clearance vehicles to access via rough dirt roads. Campgrounds closer to Idyllwild tend to be quieter and cooler than those at lower elevations, though weekend crowding is common throughout the region during summer months.
"This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee."
"The charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake. And you can’t swim or let the kids play in the lake because it’s a reservoir."
from $25 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Already been here twice once in 01/25 and 11/25 great campsite some have access to running water facet if not there are some that are close by, have also close by trash bins, has a little shop near by"
"It is right next to the lake which has a swimming area, bike path, climbing area, Hiking trails, along with a camp store which has boat rentals and much more! "
from $25 - $300 / night
Check Availability"In the back of a small town 2 miles behind a stater brother's. Most sites are near level on gravel and close together. Laundry uses quarters or a third party app to pay."
"I had a reservation at Wilderness Lakes, and I was a day early, so they let me in! Off to a good start! Full hook-ups, laundry and showers about 50 yards away, no matter which way you go."
"Lake Fulmor is 3 miles away to take pups swimming off leash. Idyllwild is a charming town for small town vibe. Nice trails close to PCT and rock climbing by Humber Park."
"Kinda close to main road. But, store close by. Around the corner next to the village."
from $25 - $45 / night
Check Availability"I've been camping at Lake Hemet since I was a kid, and absolutely love it there."
"We had such a great time at Lake Hemet Campground! The staff are so helpful and friendly and really wanted to make sure we had the best time. The views are just amazing and the lake is beautiful!"
from $45 / night
Check Availability"Located near Idyllwild, this is the smaller, less rowdy campground associated with the tourist town."
"I was really excited to head out to this campground/ site because it was a close drive from my home, but far enough away to get up in the mountains."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Bike trails are right next to the park. Fun trails watch out for rattle snakes. Only downside is the kids racing around in golf carts at night."
"She told me that it had been around for decades under a different name, Buttercup I think. It has an established rotation of regular guests that come for access to wine country."
"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."
"This is one of our family's favorite campgrounds because it's a quick drive from San Diego (and OC) and it gives us our "mountain fix" when we don't have time to drive to the Sierra Mountains."
from $30 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Bathrooms were clean considering there is only one location for bathrooms. Not much space for tents but lots of sites if you have a trailer or motor home."
"Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, within the San Jacinto District, Marion Mt. Campground is one of the best camping sites in Southern California."
"It was close to Idyllwild, which was convenient when we ran out of ice. There are no bear boxes, not sure if it was needed though. For the best spots, make sure to reserve."
from $20 / night
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TravelerIt was a good site. Post 6 and 5 and next to each other but have high ground low which gave privacy. Nice flat ground to post tent. Had a table and grill but unfortunately when we came there was a fire restriction but was able to use gas stove. Just going to add that there was a lot of trash left over please pick up after yourself. Ask for dumping stations. Was able to clean and dispose of it safely. (EW)
ScoutFirst time and I love it, this place is beautiful, you camp and you get to go to the lake. Best camp site 10,11,26,27
GuideThis RV park is quite lovely! I called to make my reservation with Dawn, because the campground map didn’t show facility locations for the washroom, pool, office/store or shade. My site (B-17) had electric and water only with a huge oak tree providing lots of shade. The gravel RV spots are nearly level, picnic tables and fire pits. This is a well maintained park with a laundry, small “zoo”, fishing pond and a sparkling swimming pool. I highly recommend this RV park, and I will plan to stay here again.
GuideGreat spot to camp
TravelerLovely little place just off the road but not bothered by it. Clean pit toilets and the sites were far enough away from each other that we didn’t notice the two other campers.
Reasonably level site, truck was able to self level no issues.
105f during the day but it was July and it is the desert so plan accordingly.
TravelerSitting at 6kft about 40 minutes from the main road up a reasonably rough road. Although there was a guy in the first campsite in a mini.
This site was reached by going a little further than the first few campsites and then taking a leap of faith that the road to the right going down hill that wasn’t on the map lead somewhere.
It has amazing views, minimal amenities, and a washed out rough road. I wouldn’t attempt this site except in something with ground clearance and Awd. We had a Rivian.
Site is super peaceful, reasonably flat, you should expect firepit bans at this time of year, also the wind is fairly constant but not terrible. Over night temp is ~78f
There were a reasonable amount of flies nothing biting though, they were replaced by moths at dark.
The occasional plane was the most annoying thing. Other than that bliss.
ScoutPeaceful,beautiful place to stay. Got to camp @1130 pm. I had no trouble finding a spot. No fires.
ScoutWhile every where else is booked up and charging crazy rates. You can come out and enjoy the sounds of the animals and look at the amazingly big birds flying in the sky.
GuideTwo long rows of spots, one beautiful ocean facing on top of the cliffs, the other with the back to the quite noisy road. We were exactly in the middle of the stairs to the beach so quite a walk for a swim. We had a large sandy spot. Pretty good and cleaner toilets than most other state parks we visited
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.
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."
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."
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Hemet, CA?
The Hemet area offers several excellent camping options. Hurkey Creek Park is a favorite among families, featuring 130 sites under ponderosa pines and oaks, with clean facilities including flush toilets and showers. For those seeking free, more primitive camping, South Ridge Yellow Post Sites offers secluded tent sites tucked in the forest with basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. Both locations provide beautiful mountain views and outdoor recreation opportunities, making them perfect basecamps for exploring the Hemet region.
What amenities are available at Lake Hemet campground?
Lake Hemet Campground offers a range of amenities for campers. The campground features water and electric hookups at select sites, restroom facilities with showers, and picnic tables. For recreation, the lake is stocked with bass, trout, catfish, and bluegill, making it excellent for fishing enthusiasts. The campground provides beautiful mountain views and is staffed with helpful personnel to enhance your stay. Some sites offer meadow views, though site sizes vary. For those seeking more rustic options nearby, Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites offers minimal amenities but incredible views overlooking the area.
Are there RV parks available in Hemet, California?
Yes, Hemet offers several RV-friendly options. Golden Village Palms RV Resort is located directly in Hemet and provides full-service amenities for RVers. For those willing to drive a short distance, Lake Hemet Campground accommodates RVs with hookup sites, though some campers note challenges with site layouts including uphill sewer connections and awkwardly positioned water hookups. For additional options within driving distance, Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort near Menifee and Temecula-Vail Lake KOA provide big-rig-friendly facilities with full amenities.
How much does it cost to camp at Lake Hemet?
Camping fees at Lake Hemet Campground vary based on site type and amenities. Premium "meadow view" sites cost around $53 per night, while standard sites may be less expensive. The campground offers various hookup options that affect pricing. For budget-conscious campers seeking alternatives near Hemet, consider the free Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites, which requires no fee but offers minimal amenities. Always check the official Lake Hemet website for current pricing as rates may change seasonally.
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