Cabin camping near Hemet, California offers opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 6,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F while winter months bring cooler conditions with occasional snowfall at higher elevations. Most cabin rentals in the area require advance reservations up to six months ahead during peak season.
What to do
Fishing at the lake: Lake Hemet Campground provides fishing opportunities with rental boats available. "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!" notes one visitor to Lake Hemet Campground.
Paddle sports: Several campgrounds offer water activities beyond fishing. "We had a great time taking the kids to the pool, and splash pad. The restaurant has great food and cold drinks. They had a band play while we were there," reports a camper at Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park.
Hiking trails: The mountains around Idyllwild provide numerous hiking options. "This campground is big with lots of different spaces dedicated to cabins, RV's, tents etc so nothing feels too cramped or noisy. Plus, there are a lot of open spaces in the campground and some small trails with cool views and lots of amenities," according to a visitor at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Miniature golf: Family activities include games at several campgrounds. "We enjoyed the mini golf (probably our favorite TT mini golf so far) but weren't too majorly impressed overall," shares a visitor at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
What campers like
Cabin variety: Different types of cabin accommodations exist throughout the area. "They have a great area of vintage trailers that can be rented, as well as some super nice yurts," notes a visitor at Launch Pointe Recreation Destination.
Natural surroundings: Many appreciate the mountain setting. "The reason it got 3 stars ⭐️ is its location being up in the mountains ⛰ in a state forest is a nice place to relax unwind and get away from the rat race," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Wildlife viewing: Local fauna enhances the experience. "Nice canals running through the park, with ducks and their ducklings trailing behind. I chose to stay at the far end, away from the crowds," shares a camper at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Seasonal activities: Different seasons offer unique experiences. "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," advises a winter visitor at Lake Hemet Campground.
What you should know
Water levels: Drought conditions affect some lake-based campgrounds. "Premium lakefront sites are no longer lakefront due to the drought so you have no dedicated shoreline as you would have had in the past," cautions a visitor at Lake Hemet Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have noise issues. "The thing I didn't like about it was that it's right next to the freeway so it was loud ... which doesn't bother me during the day but was distracting at night when trying to sleep," notes a camper at Cherry Valley Lakes.
Connectivity challenges: Internet and cell service vary widely by location. "We had absolutely no cell coverage for our Verizon phones. After a drive through the park we found Cell coverage only works in lower part of the park," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Seasonal closures: Facilities often change with seasons. "Pool and activities were closed in the winter," notes a visitor from Thousand Trails Idyllwild regarding winter season limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming facilities: Many campgrounds offer pools and water features. "We enjoyed the pool, watching the ducks in the pond, and the kids loved the basketball court. Some parts closed on certain days- store, jacuzzi, community room," shares a family at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Entertainment options: Evening activities are often organized. "This park is very large and has a very good, outdoorsy feel. Lots of hills. Bar, ice cream and pizza shop! No access to the actual lake. So don't plan on visiting a lake, unless they've resolved that issue. Karaoke night!" advises a visitor to Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
Multiple recreation options: Campgrounds often provide several activities. "This Park has bathrooms, showers, a laundry facility, a heated pool and spa, a playground, two catch and release fishing ponds (no license required, but only barbless hooks are allowed), and a youth center," explains a family staying at Cherry Valley Lakes.
Quiet hours: Rules vary by location. "My biggest complaint is they strictly enforce quiet time at 10pm. I felt like a kid being told to go to bed. I feel like on weekends people should be able to stay up late in front of their camper with low voices," notes a visitor at Launch Pointe Recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selections: Campground layouts vary significantly. "We Stayed at the Premium Full Hook Up campsite called "Bear Camp" spot 340. Highly recommend the premium hook up sites, great views of the lake even though the water level was low," advises an RVer at Lake Hemet Campground.
Electrical considerations: Power availability differs by location. "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 a camper at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Leveling challenges: Site conditions require preparation. "Our Site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still nose down with 4 2x8s and Jack at max extension. Side to side level took one board under left side," shares an RVer at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Site access: Some campgrounds have difficult navigation. "The spot is very difficult to get to up a hill. And small. Almost impossible to park," cautions a visitor to Native Falls Campground.
