Best Campgrounds near Menifee, CA

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Menifee, California (352)

    1. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    37 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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 352 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Menifee, CA

1849 Reviews of 352 Menifee Campgrounds



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 352 campgrounds and RV parks near Menifee, CA and 17 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 37 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.