Lake Perris State Recreation Area and Temecula-Vail Lake KOA are prominent options for pet friendly camping near Menifee, California. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F and mild winters with lows around 40°F. Campgrounds in this area typically sit at elevations between 1,400-1,600 feet, providing varied terrain for hiking and wildlife observation with your pets.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: At Lake Perris State Recreation Area, leashed pets can join you on several trails. "There is a designated area for setting up tents. The only downside is that the staff starts cutting trees at 8 a.m., making a lot of noise," notes Hanjun W., suggesting early morning hikes before maintenance begins.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water access points let you fish while your pet relaxes nearby. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," shares John H. about Lake Perris. Some campgrounds require additional fishing permits beyond your California fishing license.
Splash pads for hot days: When temperatures rise, Launch Pointe Recreation offers pet-friendly sites near water play areas. "Great campground for families. Lots of activities for the kids to do, like smores by the fire, art, splash pad, and play ground. Facility was clean," writes Jeff E., noting the well-maintained areas where families can cool off while pets rest in shaded campsites.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms and showers take a code to get in. Not sure what that's all about, they were clean," reports Time4Dirt about their stay at Wilderness Lakes, highlighting the campground's attention to facility maintenance.
Water features: The canal system at several campgrounds creates unique environments for wildlife viewing. "Nice canals running through the park, with ducks and their ducklings trailing behind," describes Tom W., who enjoyed watching waterfowl while camping with his dog Riley.
Spacious sites: At Lake Skinner Recreation Area, pet owners appreciate room to spread out. "We had a great time exploring the lake and hiking, well worth visiting," says WereHere. The campground offers multiple loops with different characteristics, allowing pet owners to select locations based on their animals' needs.
What you should know
Wildlife interactions: Ducks and geese are common at many campgrounds, requiring vigilance with pets. "My biggest complaint with this resort is the geese, which apparently are always there, are loud and their poop is everywhere," Jennifer D. shares about her experience, highlighting the need for close pet monitoring.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise that might affect sensitive pets. At El Cariso Campground, campers note ambient sounds: "Lots of road noise! Few sites are level. NO T-Mobile connection even with a signal booster," warns Frank M., suggesting pet owners consider location for anxious animals.
Temperature management: Summer heat requires careful planning for pet comfort. "Unseasonably warm the past couple days, so used my AC for a couple hours in the afternoon, to cool Riley and I down," mentions Tom W. about managing the heat at Wilderness Lakes, where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play structures when traveling with children and pets. "Nice relaxing weekend get away, most of the full hook up spots are next to nice grass areas," Timothy A. recommends at Lake Skinner, noting the convenience of having recreation space directly accessible from campsites.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer organized activities suitable for families with pets. At O'Neill Regional Park, campers find engaging options: "Great playground for children and recently paved streets (perfect for scootering, skating, biking). 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.
Timing considerations: School breaks create busier conditions that may impact pet experiences. "This place was hopping and popping on the weekend. Fishing, loud music and tons of weekend campers and kids," notes Gregg K. about Wilderness Lakes, suggesting weekday visits for quieter camping with pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Temecula-Vail Lake KOA, experienced RVers recommend specific areas: "We spent the weekend up in the 'Rincon' loop, it was nestled up away from the main group of RVs. It was a perfect spot for the kiddos to ride their bikes and goof around," shares Scott V., identifying quieter sections away from busier campground zones.
Hookup variations: Electric service varies significantly between campgrounds. "If you're a 30amp rig, you'll love it here, need 50amp as long as you don't need both A/C's you'll love it too," explains david N. about Wilderness Lakes, noting potential limitations during peak summer heat when air conditioning becomes essential for pet comfort.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require substantial leveling equipment. "The sites were all uneven. Every camper we saw had to do major leveling efforts," reports Brian C. about Launch Pointe Recreation, suggesting RVers bring adequate blocks and leveling systems, especially when traveling with pets who need stable accommodations.
