Near Moreno Valley, camping options expand beyond the city limits with facilities located at various elevations from 1,500 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, affecting camping conditions throughout the year. Water access varies significantly between locations, with some campgrounds offering lakeside sites while others maintain a drier desert landscape typical of Southern California inland areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Skinner Recreation Area provides fishing with a daily fee structure. "I loved this campground but wasn't a fan of the extra fees. 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," notes Jennifer D., explaining important restrictions campers should know.
Water recreation: For water-based activities beyond fishing, Launch Pointe offers multiple options near Lake Elsinore. "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. The restaurant has great food and cold drinks," shares Remmington, highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Hiking trails: Heart Bar Campground provides access to wilderness areas for day hiking. "Topography-wise this camp sits right over a small meadow that boarders the San Gorgonio wilderness. it sits higher above the highway and displaces sound nicely. this spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," explains Nick L., describing the natural setting that makes this location popular with hikers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Rancho Jurupa RV Park receives praise for its maintenance. "Great park. It may not seem nice when you are passing through town to get in, but once you enter the gates it's beautiful. Large concrete pads, easy backing in and hooking up. Lots of grass, great place to camp in groups," says Paul C., noting the contrast between surroundings and the actual campground.
Family amenities: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination provides numerous child-friendly features. "Amazing place for family camping trip. 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 Ametra J., demonstrating the longstanding appeal for return visitors.
Natural surroundings: Heart Bar Campground offers scenic views and wildlife observation. "This campground is great has water and bathroom available. Has a hiking trail not far away. Close to big bear city about 15mi South. Not too far from Jenka lake to do some fishing," shares Alfonso C., highlighting the natural attractions surrounding this location.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. "Bobcat Campsite. Awesome campsite. Free showers. Electrical outlets by the restrooms at a handicap site. Water spigots scattered around the bobcat site. Dumpsters within walking distance from your site. The locals in the area will take your site if you arrive late," warns Angel C., emphasizing the need to secure sites ahead of time.
Noise levels: Lake Perris experiences sound management issues that affect camping quality. "Shade is sparse, fellow campers aren't the most considerate. I have been here 3 times and it always ends up being loud. Fellow campers play music loud and it's more of a low class party area then camping," explains Paul C., providing insight into potential disturbances.
Internet connectivity: For those needing to stay connected, options vary widely. "Lake Perris Relaxation. I'd say come here if you're looking to enjoy outside and not be in your rig much. If your one that needs WI-FI this isn't the spot for you. Your phones hot spot may not even work," mentions Troy A., highlighting connectivity limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers alternatives to swimming in the reservoir. "On the flip side they have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost! There are lots of walking trails," shares Jennifer D., pointing out family-friendly water features that don't require additional fees.
Playground access: Rancho Jurupa Park provides multiple entertainment options for children. "Great place. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen," notes Troy A., highlighting the safety features that benefit families.
Activity planning: O'Neill Regional Park offers structured activities for children. "Recently paved streets (perfect for scootering, skating, biking). Great playground for children. Easy and fun 'Story Trail' hike for children. The hike features a new book every month, each page is mounted to a placard along the trail," explains Johnny G., detailing specific child-oriented features.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling concerns: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park requires preparation for uneven spots. "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. The boat launch is very near by too but we had no use for that. Only arguments - the spots are relatively tight," explains Bryan H., noting accessibility challenges.
Hookup availability: Equestrian camping near Moreno Valley, California requires advance planning due to limited full-hookup sites. "Came in for a convention in Ontario, better alternative than Fairplex park. Very spacious and good for big rigs. LOTS of activities for families (splash pad). Reservations online not too bad, only thing is it will says electricity only but I have had water hookup at all of my spots," shares Kaitlynn B. from Rancho Jurupa Park, providing insight on actual versus listed amenities.
Spacing between sites: Reflection Lake RV Park offers parallel parking sites with lake views. "We made it clear, at the time we reserved, that we needed a 50 Amp hookup. It turns out that our reservation was for a 30 Amp site (#21). We again made it clear at the time of check-in that we needed a 50 Amp site, we were moved from #21 to #31 (the only 50 Amp site left in the park). It is a lakeside parallel parking site that is beautiful," describes Carl D., highlighting the limited availability of specific hookup types.
