Glamping and camping options near Homeland, California span diverse terrains from mountain forests to lakeside retreats. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 7,000 feet, creating varied microclimates and camping experiences throughout the year. Sites typically face high demand during spring and fall when temperatures remain moderate, with summer highs often exceeding 100°F in lower elevations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers multiple fishing spots with stocked waters. "The lake does have fish, so if you're a fisherman you're going to love this campground," notes one visitor, highlighting the convenient access from camping areas to fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Marion Mountain Campground provides direct access to mountain trails leading to San Jacinto Peak. "Great area to explore and hike around right off the campground! The trails were relatively quiet so I would recommend taking a hike if you are looking for quiet and solitude," reports a camper who appreciated the peaceful setting.
Water activities: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park features a beach area, splash pad, and boat launch. "This campground has a pool, splash pad, park, dog park and access to the lake. They also have a band on Saturday nights," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the multiple recreation options.
Mountain biking: Lake Hemet Campground offers access to miles of mountain biking trails. "My friends and I have been camping here for New Years and other random summer/holiday weekends for about 5 years now. We have just camped to relax, Kayak, fish, and play Disk Golf," notes a regular visitor, describing the diverse outdoor activities available.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort features canals with resident waterfowl. "Nice canals running through the park, with ducks and their ducklings trailing behind," reports a camper who enjoyed the natural setting despite being in an established resort.
Amenities balance: Lake Skinner Recreation Area combines natural settings with practical facilities. "Great park staff at check in, and at the camp store. Park is beautifully landscaped with trees and lush grass. We had a great time exploring the lake and hiking, well worth visiting," mentions a visitor who appreciated both the natural and developed aspects of the campground.
Pool facilities: Fisherman's Retreat offers swimming options when the lake isn't suitable. "There's a nice little general store, restaurant and fish tournaments on Saturdays. They have a pool & a playground for the kids," describes a regular visitor, highlighting amenities beyond fishing.
Evening entertainment: Launch Pointe schedules regular weekend performances. "The restaurant was only open one of the nights we were there. Not impressive. We were the only diners there," cautions a winter visitor, suggesting seasonal variations in available services.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Facilities at most campgrounds operate on reduced schedules during off-peak periods. "Some parts closed on certain days - store, jacuzzi, community room," notes a Wilderness Lakes visitor, indicating the importance of checking ahead about specific amenity availability.
Cell service limitations: Thousand Trails Idyllwild has spotty connectivity. "Site 414 had 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," mentions a guest who discovered cell service varies significantly throughout the resort.
Noise factors: Several campgrounds sit near highways or busy areas. At Cherry Valley Lakes, a visitor noted: "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."
Water conditions: Lake conditions can change rapidly throughout the season. "The lake was closed due to algae bloom," reported a winter visitor to Launch Pointe, highlighting how lake access varies depending on environmental conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads during summer: Lake Skinner offers water play areas for children when temperatures rise. "They have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost!" shares an enthusiastic parent who found alternatives when lake swimming wasn't permitted.
Playground access: Wilderness Lakes provides multiple recreation areas for children. "We enjoyed the pool, watching the ducks in the pond, and the kids loved the basketball court," notes a family who found diverse activities for different age groups.
Off-peak visits: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers quieter experiences during weekdays. "Great relaxing weekend get away, most of the full hook up spots are next to nice grass areas," mentions a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly layout and amenities.
Safety considerations: Marion Mountain Campground requires additional supervision for children. "Some sites are not flat and the bathrooms were pretty dirty but over all it's a great place," notes a camper, pointing out potential challenges for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Idyllwild presents particular difficulties for larger rigs. "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," warns an RVer who needed to purchase additional supplies in town.
Electrical capacity: Wilderness Lakes has limited 50-amp availability. "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," explains a repeat visitor who suggests planning for power limitations.
Access routes: For those towing heavy rigs to higher elevations, route selection matters. "I recommend coming in and out from Anza passing by Lake Hemet, if your towing towards your max capacity. Gradual straight climb through 75% of the way," advises an experienced RVer at Idyllwild.
Proximity considerations: Sites at Lake Skinner balance closeness to amenities with potential noise. "The sites are right up next to each other so there's not much privacy. The campground itself was standard. They have options for water and electric or full hookups," mentions a visitor who found the arrangement functional but not spacious.
