The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Menifee, CA

1,857 Reviews

Camping near Menifee, California is strategically positioned in the heart of Southern California, with access to a variety of established campgrounds and recreational areas. The region includes Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort within Menifee itself, Lake Perris State Recreational Area to the north, and Lake Skinner Recreation Area to the south. These locations provide a mix of tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin accommodations. As one camper noted, "Menifee is central to the southern California mountains of north, south, and east, in addition to the beaches 1-2 hours west," making it an excellent base camp for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Most campgrounds in the Menifee area are open year-round, taking advantage of Southern California's mild climate. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, with occasional heat waves pushing above 100°F, making shade a valuable commodity at exposed campsites. Winter nights can drop into the 40s, but daytime temperatures typically remain comfortable. Fire restrictions are common during the dry summer and fall months due to wildfire concerns. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays at popular locations like Lake Skinner and Lake Perris, where waterfront sites fill quickly during peak season.

The camping options near Menifee range from fully-developed RV resorts to more basic facilities. RV campers will find comprehensive amenities at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes, which offers full hookups, a camp store, and recreational facilities. Lake-based campgrounds provide water recreation opportunities, with Lake Perris featuring "a swimming area, bike path, climbing area, hiking trails, along with a camp store which has boat rentals," according to visitor reviews. Family-friendly amenities are common at the larger established campgrounds, while those seeking more seclusion might prefer the campgrounds in the nearby San Jacinto Mountains or Cleveland National Forest, where the elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months.

Map showing campgrounds near Menifee, CaliforniaExplore the Map

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Menifee Contest

Enter to Win

Best Camping Sites Near Menifee, California (356)

    1. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    38 Reviews
    Moreno Valley, CA
    13 miles

    $25 - $300 / night

    "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!  "

    "Paved full hookup sites right next to each other but quiet neighbors. Campground is just 5minutes from busy town."

    2. Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    Menifee, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "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."

    3. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 926-1541

    $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."

    4. Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Lake Elsinore, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (855) 471-1212

    $55 - $140 / night

    "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."

    "I had site 126 in the fields, corner site and lake view. This campground has a pool, splash pad, park, dog park and access to the lake. They also have a band on Saturday nights."

    5. Blue Jay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    21 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (858) 673-6180

    $20 / night

    "We were able to find a spot tucked away off one of the loops to the left after a small hill. Neighbors played loud music but we didn’t mind at all."

    "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"

    6. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    20 Reviews
    Cleveland National Forest, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 303-0173

    "Bike trails are right next to the park. Fun trails watch out for rattle snakes. Only downside is the kids racing around in golf carts at night."

    "She told me that it had been around for decades under a different name, Buttercup I think. It has an established rotation of regular guests that come for access to wine country."

    7. El Cariso Campground

    9 Reviews
    Lake Elsinore, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 736-1811

    $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."

    8. O'Neill Regional Park

    30 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2260

    $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..."

    9. Palm View RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Quail Valley, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 657-7791

    "If you don't have anybody walk on over next to the garden to find some nice goats and sheep and up on the little hill there's cute chickens of all whom can be pet as for they are all used to being pet."

    10. Zephyr Mountain Farms

    3 Reviews
    Wildomar, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 477-5114

    $55 - $435 / night

    "We stopped for the 1 night whilst visiting friends in nearby Marietta. Shane was super responsive and the directions were spot on."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 356 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Menifee Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Menifee, CA

649 Photos of 356 Menifee Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Menifee, CA

1857 Reviews of 356 Menifee Campgrounds

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • j
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Henshaw Resort

    My stay review

    This place is pretty. The staff is nice and not too strict. The place can definitely need a lil tlc but for the price per dayits nothing too complain too much. The pool is cool the showers and bathroom are all functional. Wich is a good thing. I was told to pick any spot i liked wich made my stay even better. No hookups at all i had my rv/camper but that was no problem i took my generator. Place is definitely recommended if you're a not too picky person.😉

  • D
    Aug. 31, 2025

    San Elijo State Beach Campground

    Cool spot

    Difficult to book. 6 months in advance but if you do. The full hookup spots are located in the middle of the campground. Don’t feel like you missed anything if you can’t get beachfront. Bushes, fences block any views unless your in dry camping down toward south end of park. Camp store is permanently closed so that Convenience is no longer here. Bathrooms and showers are clean and somewhat nice.

  • Elise F.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Fry Creek Campground

    Loved it

    We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. Our site was removed from others so we weren’t bothered by neighbors. It was a nice large site next to the bathrooms (which were very clean and well maintained) and close to a water spigot and trash can. This campground is definitely a birder’s paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more. One important note though is this entire area is swarmed with flies. We brought nets to put around our faces and without these, I don’t think I would have survived. So definitely bring nets for your face, bug spray, and citronella. Despite this, it was a lovely place. Will be returning one day.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Bogart Regional park

    It was okay for a last minute camping idea.

  • Julie
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bogart County Park

    Yucaipa Regional park

    Great customer service, easy access, restrooms, fishing, swimming and paddle boats.

  • Wayne S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Applewhite Campground (Ca) — San Bernardino National Forest

    Nice little park

    Very small campground. Camping sites are spread out. The access road is very narrow. We did it with a 22 foot fifth wheel. Space 41 could hold a much longer rig but it would be a challenge even getting to that space. There were only two other campers here while we were here. Lots of trees but not so thick you dont get some sun. The road getting to the campgrounds is somewhat narrow and has some hairpin turns so again it might be difficult for someone with a long trailer We camped at Applewhite Campground in a Fifth Wheel.

Guide to Menifee

Camping near Menifee, California, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. From ocean views to serene mountain settings, there’s something for everyone looking to enjoy nature.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, provide direct access to the beach. Campers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and even surfing. One visitor mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean."
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails are abundant in the area. For instance, San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach is close to great biking paths along the coast. A reviewer noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes."
  • Fishing: Campgrounds like Lake Hemet Campground are perfect for fishing enthusiasts. One camper shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at places like Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. A visitor said, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. At William Heise County Park, one camper remarked, "Campsites were clean, rangers were nice."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff at various locations. A review for Bonelli Bluffs highlighted, "Personnel very kind and friendly."

What you should know:

  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park, have limited hookups. A visitor noted, "The roads could use some work and if you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Noise Levels: Campers should be prepared for noise, especially near highways. One reviewer at San Clemente State Beach Campground said, "It is loud, even if it isn't because your neighbors are on top of you."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities for kids. Lake Hemet Campground is noted for being great for families. A camper shared, "Great place for family and kids."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A reviewer at William Heise County Park mentioned, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at San Elijo State Beach Campground said, "Nice food, great beach and surfing possibilities for the entire family."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Black Rock Campground advised, "The maximum length is 38. We had 30/50 amp electrical and water."
  • Arrive Early: Getting to your campground early can help you secure a good spot. A camper at Serrano mentioned, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have markets nearby. A reviewer at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Camping near Menifee, CA, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's plenty to explore!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Menifee, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Menifee, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 356 campgrounds and RV parks near Menifee, CA and 18 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Menifee, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Menifee, CA is Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 38 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Menifee, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 free dispersed camping spots near Menifee, CA.

What parks are near Menifee, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Menifee, CA that allow camping, notably Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest.

Keep Exploring