Lake Elsinore sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation within the Santa Ana Mountains range, creating a microclimate that regularly produces summer temperatures exceeding 100°F from June through September. The surrounding terrain features chaparral-covered hills with recreational water access at the 3,000-acre natural lake—the largest freshwater lake in Southern California. Winter camping conditions remain mild with overnight temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination provides lake access for anglers seeking catfish and bass. "Lots of families with children, fishing for catfish in the little lake which is shaded with trees and plenty of tables to picnic by the lake," notes a visitor at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Water activities: The summer heat makes water recreation essential at Lake Elsinore rv campgrounds. "My family loves this place we were here before the remodeling and we are still faithful returners every year for the past 20+ years we absolutely love it here and the family fun is always amazing," reports a camper about Launch Pointe Recreation Destination.
Nearby attractions: The location serves as a central hub for Southern California exploration. "We used the campground as a base camp to spend time in LA and San Diego as well as a day in Joshua Tree National Park. 1-2 hours from everything," explains a visitor to Launch Pointe.
What campers like
Security measures: Many Lake Elsinore rv parks prioritize safety. "Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes," reports a Rancho Jurupa visitor. Another notes, "friendly staff to check us in gates close at 10pm your provided with a security gate code to get back in if your out late."
Site spaciousness: Concrete pads with ample spacing remain a highlight at several campgrounds near Lake Elsinore. "Large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up. Lots of grass, great place to camp in groups," explains a camper about Rancho Jurupa Park, while at Pala Casino RV Resort, "The spots are big as well, each spot have a picnic table!"
Proximity to amenities: The convenience of nearby services appeals to many. "Target directly across the street, In-n-Out, local parks, and the like," notes a visitor to Golden Village Palms RV Resort in Hemet.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Lake Elsinore itself sometimes experiences algae issues. "The lake was closed due to algae bloom," reports one Launch Pointe camper, while another mentions "This is probably the nicest thing in lake elsinore along with the bowling alley... bummer that the lake is gross."
Noise levels: Campgrounds vary significantly in their noise policies. "The only bad part is they strictly enforce quiet time at 10pm. I felt like a kid being told to go to bed," notes a Launch Pointe visitor. Contrasting this, at Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, "Dirt bikes, electric scooters, golf carts with loud music, cars literally cruising the park with loud music, people using leaf blowers you name it we saw it."
Wi-Fi limitations: Internet connectivity issues affect some rv campgrounds in Lake Elsinore. "Internet was great but it had bandwidth restraints that would turn your internet off after very small amounts of data used. There was no option to upgrade so you had to use your own hotspots," explains a Launch Pointe visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water amenities: Child-focused water features provide relief from summer heat. "Amenities are very good for young kids. Canopy Court area has easy and close access to the splash pad, the playground, a large grass area, and even the pool," explains a Launch Pointe visitor.
Activity options: Structured recreation keeps children engaged. "We enjoy the pool, watching the ducks in the pond, and the kids loved the basketball court," reports a Wilderness Lakes RV Resort visitor. At Escondido RV Resort, "The resort's prime location added to the overall charm, allowing easy access to nearby attractions while still offering a quiet and serene atmosphere."
Group sites: Some campgrounds specifically accommodate family gatherings. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties... However, there are some great kid friendly activities," explains a visitor to Rancho Jurupa Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Leveling challenges exist at some Lake Elsinore area rv parks. "The sites were all uneven. Every camper we saw had to do major leveling efforts," notes a visitor to Launch Pointe.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat demands functioning electrical systems for RVers. "We stayed in the natural area with hook-ups everything worked great," reports a Rancho Jurupa camper, while at Pala RV Resort, "Full hookups on what looks like every spot. 30/50 amp, water, sewer, and cable available on all spots."
Reservation timing: Securing preferred sites requires planning ahead. "I will book ahead next time," advises a Rancho Jurupa visitor. "Came in for a convention in Ontario, better alternative than Fairplex park. Very spacious and good for big rigs. There's a dump station, but a couple spots with dump but they were always booked."
