Campgrounds near Lake Elsinore, California range from lakeside RV resorts to primitive sites in nearby mountain areas. Lake Elsinore campgrounds include Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park, which offers full hookups, cabin rentals, and glamping options including yurts directly on the water. El Cariso and Blue Jay campgrounds provide more rustic experiences in the Cleveland National Forest west of the lake. Lake Elsinore camping areas feature diverse options with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals throughout the region, with most developed facilities concentrated along the lakeshore or in nearby recreation areas.
Many campgrounds in the Lake Elsinore region operate year-round, though summer brings higher temperatures and increased demand for waterfront sites. Facilities vary significantly, with lakeside resorts offering full amenities including electric hookups, water, sewer connections, and shower facilities, while forest service campgrounds typically provide more basic services. Permits and reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during peak season from late spring through early fall. Access to most developed campgrounds requires no special vehicles, though some forest service sites may have rougher roads. A camper noted, "The campgrounds are small with small sites. But there is few people there. Road noise is a problem but if you are just looking to get out locally and cheap it's a go for me."
Waterfront camping experiences receive considerable attention in visitor reviews, with Launch Pointe Recreation Destination earning consistent praise for its cleanliness and family-friendly amenities. Campers frequently mention the splash pad, playground, and swimming pool as highlights for families with children. Several visitors commented on the well-maintained grounds and facilities. One review described Launch Pointe as "a great stay for our family and dog! Check in was very speedy. The campground was clean as can be- no overflowing garbages, all utilities tastefully hidden." Forest service campgrounds typically offer more solitude but fewer amenities. Noise from nearby roadways affects some camping areas, particularly at El Cariso Campground, where proximity to the highway creates ambient sound that some campers find disruptive.
$10 - $300 / night
"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! "
$20 / night
"clean restrooms and sites. large campground with paved roads was nice for strolling through. pretty far off the beaten path above lake elsinore. the views near by were fantastic. the staff was fairly friendly"
"A nice little campground just a few minutes off the 74 just before Lake Elsinore."
$20 / night
"It's tucked back in the canyon, but you will still hear all the traffic from the road. Since it is a canyon, many loud cars and motorcycles zoom past at high speeds. Free dump station. "
"Behind my Camp site was a few different hiking paths. Restroom buildings have water, toilets, and showers. It says to bring quarters for the showers but they were free. Each site is typical..."
$55 - $140 / night
"This is probably the nicest thing in lake elsinore along with the bowling alley. We stayed there for a weekend and had a great time taking the kids to the pool, and slaps pad."
"Canopy Court area has easy and close access to the splash pad, the playground, a large grass area, and even the pool. The boat launch is very near by too but we had no use for that."
"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."
$15 / night
"The campground was right off the highway, cost affective ($15/night), and there were no reservations needed. There were 24 sites tucked in the woods. A few water faucets & bathrooms throughout."
"Albeit it’s just off the road and Ortega highway is fairly busy at all hours of the night, so road noise was a little annoying but not bad. Self pay was easy and quick."
$25 - $45 / night
"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."
$20 - $25 / night
"Tucked on the outskirts of Mission Viejo is an oasis of green grass and groves of the twisting and searching limbs of Coastal Live Oak trees. "
"Rangers at entrance to check for pets (not allowed) and where you can buy bundles of wood for $5 if you want. Technically not allowed to bring in outside wood."
$45 - $250 / night
"San Mateo is one of the better beach campgrounds in California, some sites have some great privacy."
"Another beautiful gem along the California Coast. Although not on or too near the beach, this campground is truly a lovely spot. All or most of the campsites boast a bit of privacy."
"I can't say enough about the beautiful views of Lake Elsinore! We can't wait to visit this campground again!"
"A/C in the house is great for cooling off from heat. 5 min drive to Ortega Falls, which creates a magical hike when the waterfall is running, and it’s an easy outing in the area."
GuideIt is basically a very long parking lot with a highway and train track to the land side. The other side has first some tent spots, then scrubs and finally distant cliffs down to a nice beach. A lot of surfers for which this spot makes sense, but that's all. Toilets are OK , outside showers for rinsing off only
TravelerSuper easy to book, pretty affordable for the area. Super comfortable and feels safe!
ScoutEasy access but away from street noise. Nothing elegant or fancy but it's a nice spot to spend the weekend. RV sites are next to the baseball fields, which is fun! Some sites have shade trees (beware of dripping pine trees). Grass and trees off the RV sites. Sites are on gravel and concrete pads. Great view of the nearby mountains. Park security patrols throughout the day. We've stayed here twice and would definitely visit again!
GuideI have some reservations about writing this review because my experience at this campground was wonderful. I enjoyed four peaceful days there, and, surprisingly, there were never more than three campers present. The other visitors were all gray-haired, which contributed to the serenity—there were no barking dogs, loud generators, music, or screaming kids. I spoke with some long-time campers who advised against visiting during holiday weekends and summer; they warned that it can turn chaotic. Marion Mountain, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, exudes character and has a relaxed atmosphere that is not geared for partying, although some attempt to make it so. This campground strictly allows only tent camping and very small teardrop trailers or camper vans; RVs and fifth-wheelers are not permitted. The upper loop(sites 1-5) is great for van or tent camping, but parking is limited to one car/van per site, with no extra parking available. This restriction minimizes the flow of day hikers and keeps the campground tranquil. The inside loop features flatter ground for pitching tents, but it does come with close campsites, reducing privacy since the road rings around sites six through ten, which require a short walk to access. On the lower loop, the outside sites are sloped, and you also need to walk to them. The interior sites here are flat but closely packed, creating a cramped environment. I rated this campground one star for weekends and holidays, but it earns five stars on weekdays and in the shoulder seasons. I would absolutely return, but definitely not on weekends! If I want to hear screaming kids and barking dogs, I can just visit my grandkids. If you value a peaceful camping experience, choose your timing wisely!
GuideBut overall it worked for us. The sites have large hedges between them which is nice for privacy. It all felt a bit tired and could do with some TLC, but if we needed to stay in Palm Springs again this would work
ScoutSpots so close & noisy with cars/trucks/rvs coming & going often so close to your spot. Not relaxing AT ALL. Plus, nothing much to do. Thought be hiking but no. Just rv park in a city surrounded by trees, wasn’t what I was hoping for. Won’t return.
ScoutGreat spots along this whole road. Busy on weekends though.
GuideIt was easy to find and access based on information on The Dyrt posted by other users. Great for train enthusiasts. Lots of traffic noise from the highway. We even encountered a rare black coyote. Unfortunately I didn’t have the mental presence to snap a picture but it came right up to the trailer. I don’t believe in feeding wildlife but probably others had. Unfortunately there was lots of trash left behind by previous campers or local partiers. I plan to use this location regularly as a launching off point for destinations in Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. Very convenient location, there are also convenience stores, a McDonalds, and very expensive gasoline nearby.
ScoutNot very secluded, tight spaces, but very mellow campground, great staff, I really enjoyed it.
Lake Elsinore camping options extend beyond the lakeshore into nearby mountain areas where temperatures often range 5-10 degrees cooler than in the valley. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 feet at the lake to over 2,800 feet in the surrounding Cleveland National Forest. This creates microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year, with mountain sites offering relief during summer when lake temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
Hike to nearby waterfalls: Blue Jay Campground provides access to trails leading to seasonal waterfalls. "Went on two great hikes, both to the nearby waterfalls. Each hike was beautiful," notes a camper from Blue Jay Campground. The trailheads start within 2 miles of the campsite and are accessible for most ability levels.
Visit educational facilities: Lake Perris State Recreation Area offers educational resources. "There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," mentions a camper from Lake Perris State Recreation Area Campground. The museum is open weekends and holidays, with free admission.
Explore mountain biking routes: Trails suitable for mountain biking connect several campgrounds. "The campground is located next to Oneil Park, which is huge and great for bike and running. I usually ride to Caspers from the campsite or Trabruco creek up to Holy Jim," shares a visitor to O'Neill Regional Park. Many trails feature intermediate difficulty with some technical sections.
Private mountain views: Some locations offer elevated perspectives. "Essentially a private mountain top with views above the clouds — seeing the clouds roll in was unreal," describes a guest at The Secret Place. Campsites on the eastern ridges provide panoramic vistas of both the lake and surrounding mountains.
Spacious campsites: El Cariso provides more room than expected. "Plenty of clean space! We would come back!" notes a visitor to El Cariso Campground. Sites average 30-40 feet between neighbors with natural vegetation creating privacy barriers.
Beach proximity: San Mateo Campground offers coastal access. "Clean campground, most of the spots are super private! A fun little hike (1.5 miles) to the walk until tresels beach," shares a camper from San Mateo Campground. The trail to the beach crosses protected habitat areas and takes approximately 30-45 minutes each way.
Seasonal insect concerns: Several campgrounds report significant insect activity during warmer months. "Stayed here in late August, it's easy to get to and close enough for a short trip out of town. The bugs were not enjoyable at all, there were meat bees/wasps swarming all the water faucets and the gnats were so bad we spent most our time hiding in the tent," warns a visitor to Blue Jay Campground.
Road noise impacts: Highway proximity affects some camping locations. "Traffic noise was a little rough for those looking for a quiet getaway," notes a camper at El Cariso. Sites closest to Ortega Highway experience the most noise, particularly during weekends when motorcycle traffic increases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you go tent camping at Lake Elsinore?
Yes, tent camping is available in the Lake Elsinore area. Blue Jay Campground (when open) is a popular choice for tent campers, located in the mountains above Lake Elsinore. This campground offers beautiful sites that are well-spaced, providing privacy between campers. Another excellent option is Dripping Springs Campground, which welcomes tent campers and offers a more natural setting. It's conveniently located for those wanting to explore both Lake Elsinore and the Temecula wine country. Both campgrounds provide basic amenities and serve as great bases for hiking and outdoor activities in the area.
Where are the designated campgrounds at Lake Elsinore?
Lake Elsinore offers several designated campgrounds in the surrounding area. Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park is located directly on Lake Elsinore, providing excellent lake access and amenities including a pool and splash pad. For those seeking a more natural setting, El Cariso Campground is located in the mountains above Lake Elsinore with basic amenities and serves as a good base for exploring the area. Other nearby options include Crane Lakeside Mobile Home Park & RV Resort and The Secret Place, which offers private camping with beautiful views overlooking the lake.
Are there glamping options at Lake Elsinore?
While traditional glamping accommodations like yurts or safari tents are limited around Lake Elsinore, there are some elevated camping experiences available. The Secret Place offers a private camping experience with spectacular views overlooking Lake Elsinore and personalized service from the host, Mazen, creating a more upscale camping atmosphere. For those seeking comfort while still enjoying the outdoors, RV resorts like Crane Lakeside Mobile Home Park & RV Resort provide amenities that bridge the gap between camping and resort stays. True glamping enthusiasts might need to venture a bit further to coastal areas where more dedicated glamping operations can be found.
Is RV camping available at Lake Elsinore?
Yes, Lake Elsinore offers excellent RV camping options. Crane Lakeside Mobile Home Park & RV Resort provides RV sites for both short-term and long-term stays, with amenities including full utility hookups, patios, privacy fences, storage sheds, and individual mailboxes. Their lakefront sites are particularly desirable. Another popular option is Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park, which caters well to RVers with good facilities, including a restaurant, pool, and splash pad for families. This city-run campground is considered one of the nicer attractions in Lake Elsinore and is suitable for digital nomads and families.
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