Best Campgrounds near Moreno Valley, CA

Moreno Valley connects to several camping options throughout Southern California. Joshua Tree National Park's desert terrain includes Large Horse Camp, which has specific corrals for visitors camping with horses. Near the coast, San Mateo Campground sits close to San Onofre State Beach and has paid showers for campers who want to rinse off after beach trips. The local wildlife can include coyotes and rattlesnakes, so proper food storage and awareness are important when camping in these areas. You'll need permits for some activities in Joshua Tree, and it's smart to check current fire rules before you arrive. Most camping spots around Moreno Valley limit stays to 14 days to keep spaces available for everyone. Many campgrounds provide basic drinking water and bathrooms, though some more remote sites have fewer amenities. Making reservations ahead of time is a good idea, particularly when camping during busy seasons. Summer brings very hot temperatures, so extra water is essential if camping then. Many people prefer winter camping here when the weather is cooler. The camping areas near Moreno Valley range from desert to coastal environments, giving you different landscapes to choose from. Remember to practice Leave No Trace methods to keep these natural areas in good condition.

Best Camping Sites Near Moreno Valley, California (377)

    1. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    38 Reviews
    Moreno Valley, CA
    4 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. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Yucaipa, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 790-3127

    "Tons of hiking trails and within 30 min drive of major shopping/grocery stores. Big Bear is about an hour away with and awesome drive up the mountain."

    "Close to the city but far enough away from the lights. There is a ton of stuff to do here. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, water slides, disc golf, bike trails. The RV spots are beyond huge!"

    3. Rancho Jurupa RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Riverside, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 684-7032

    $40 - $55 / night

    "The lakeview area has dirt roads, sparse grass and a few spots close to the lake. The Cottonwood campground has concrete pads and well maintained grass throughout."

    "Lakeside is more for tent camping. Nice park for family camping."

    4. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $40 - $81 / night

    "The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."

    "The campground overall is really pretty and in a great location in Lake Arrowhead. However, we made the mistake of booking site 005, which is right on a ridge... it was SO windy."

    5. Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    Menifee, CA
    18 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."

    6. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    13 Reviews
    Angelus Oaks, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "Most of the sites have incredible views looking out over Lake Hemet and of the San Jacinto mountains."

    "Fun off-road adventure to get to the site. Minimal sites so not much crowding."

    7. March Air Reserve Base

    2 Reviews
    Moreno Valley, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 655-3983

    $25 - $35 / night

    8. Mission RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Bryn Mawr, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 796-7570

    "Although the park doesn't offer much of entertainment and don't remember seeing a pool (can get pretty hot) I was able to enjoy all the shopping stores and restaurants near by."

    9. Fisherman's Retreat

    2 Reviews
    Calimesa, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 795-0171

    "The members lake & camping spots are nice & quiet. Great place to relax & fish. Get a spot up against the lake. The non members lakes & camping spots can be a little ghetto."

    10. Olive Dell Ranch

    3 Reviews
    Bryn Mawr, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 825-6619
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Recent Reviews near Moreno Valley, CA

1792 Reviews of 377 Moreno Valley Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Bonelli Bluffs

    Wish we could stay longer this trip

    We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups. We will be back for sure, especially since it's less than an hour from home.

  • Karen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    San Clemente State Beach Campground

    Ant Infestation !

    If they would simply notify campers upon check in of the SIGNIFICANT SEASONAL ANT INFESTATION, it could have alleviated us waking up with ants crawling on our faces in the morning. They sell diatomaceous earth for $10. And we carry it already, but all we could do was go to WAR with the ants to contain the outbreak in our camper. BTW, we carry NO food inside the camper. Had to go to 2 hardware stores to get supplies and spend significant time eradicating only 95%. SO Disappointed. Our site was near a “coyote corridor”, so maybe why we didn’t have so many squirrels! Ha Ha!

  • Julia G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Hare School Park

    Overnight parking ✅

    You can overnight park here with your RV without problems.

  • Elijah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Big Pine Flat Campground

    50/50

    Sites are nice, there is potable water and toilets BUT there is also a OHV staging area directly across from the campsites. The occasional dirt bike is fine right? So I thought. There was a group of 20+ people partying and playing corridos so loud I couldn’t fall asleep. They had a side by side with large speakers facing the campsite :/ I wouldn’t be annoyed if it was free but I paid $30 to camp and the camp host said this is their turf and there is nothing he can do.

  • C
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.


Guide to Moreno Valley

Camping near Moreno Valley, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a beach vibe or a desert adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean," making it a perfect spot for beach lovers.
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park. A reviewer noted, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Head to Lake Hemet Campground for fishing. One visitor shared, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."

What campers like

What you should know

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Indian Cove Campground mentioned, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. For example, Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park has no electric hookups, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Noise Levels: Campers at San Clemente State Beach Campground reported noise from nearby highways. One camper said, "You can try to imagine it’s the sound of the water, but it doesn’t really work out when it’s off sync with the sound of the waves."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for spots like Lake Hemet Campground that offer fishing and swimming. A family camper shared, "The swim zone isn't too far from this campsite."
  • Plan for Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites close together. A visitor at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "The campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Campgrounds like Serrano may not have markets nearby. One camper mentioned, "Bring your own shade for this campsite, your own water too."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground advised, "The roads in are narrow and absolutely terrible."
  • Bring Dollar Bills for Showers: At places like San Mateo Campground, showers require tokens. One camper said, "A couple tokens (one dollar) is enough for a decent shower."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: If you’re camping on weekends, expect more people. A visitor at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "The weekdays are really quiet, maybe 15 to 20 RVs in the F area, but weekends fill up completely."

Camping around Moreno Valley, CA, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a beach getaway or a desert adventure. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Moreno Valley?

For camping near Moreno Valley, Applewhite Campground in San Bernardino National Forest offers a small, natural setting just 5-7 miles from Highway 215. For a more adventurous option, Heart Bar Campground provides spectacular mountain views and a secluded atmosphere with beautiful California sunsets. Both campgrounds are within a reasonable drive from Moreno Valley. If you prefer more developed facilities, Yucaipa Regional Park and Rancho Jurupa Park offer family-friendly options with amenities like showers, picnic areas, and nearby hiking trails. Always check seasonal availability and reservation requirements before planning your trip.

What fishing and camping opportunities are available near Moreno Valley?

Moreno Valley offers excellent fishing and camping combinations within a short drive. Serrano Campground provides lakeside camping with easy fishing access and friendly staff who keep campers informed about local wildlife. Fisherman's Retreat near Redlands lives up to its name with dedicated fishing facilities alongside camping options. Other notable fishing spots include Lake Perris State Recreation Area, which offers both shoreline and boat fishing for bass, trout, and catfish. For a more rustic experience, the San Bernardino National Forest has several campgrounds near streams with seasonal fishing opportunities. Most fishing locations require a California fishing license, and some charge additional day-use or entrance fees.

Are there campsites with electricity and water hookups in Moreno Valley?

Yes, several campgrounds near Moreno Valley offer electricity and water hookups. Pechanga RV Resort features modern hookups with additional amenities like a pool and proximity to restaurants and golf. Bonelli Bluffs also provides quality utility hookups, though some campers note it lacks playground facilities for children. Other options with full hookups include Rancho Jurupa RV Park in Riverside and Mission RV Park in Redlands, both offering convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a camping atmosphere. Most of these sites require reservations, especially during peak seasons. Hookup amperage varies by campground, so RVers should confirm their specific electrical needs when booking. Rates typically range from $45-75 per night for sites with utilities.

How do I make reservations for Lake Perris camping near Moreno Valley?

To reserve a campsite at Lake Perris near Moreno Valley, visit ReserveCalifornia.com or call 1-800-444-7275. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, and it's recommended to book early, especially for summer weekends and holidays. O'Neill Regional Park follows a similar reservation system and can be an alternative if Lake Perris is full. Lake Perris offers over 400 campsites with various amenities, including some with lake views. When making reservations, be prepared with alternative dates and site numbers. Reservation fees apply in addition to camping fees, and cancellation policies vary based on how far in advance you cancel. Always check for any fire restrictions or park alerts before your stay.