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Dog-Friendly Camping near Moreno Valley, CA
23 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground accommodates pets throughout its established campsites with generous tent and RV spaces. Dogs must remain leashed within the campground boundaries and are permitted in all camping areas including the tent sites and RV hookup sections. Rancho Jurupa RV Park provides pet-friendly options across its tent sites, RV spaces, and cabin accommodations, making it ideal for travelers with animals. Yucaipa Regional Park and Fisherman's Retreat also welcome pets with designated areas for animal exercise. Most campgrounds enforce standard leash policies and request that owners clean up after their pets. Bathrooms and shower facilities throughout these campgrounds remain clean despite the pet-friendly policies. Raccoons are commonly spotted at Lake Perris, requiring campers to secure pet food properly.
Hiking trails surrounding these pet-friendly campgrounds provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, though wildlife encounters necessitate keeping pets leashed on trails. Lake Perris features several miles of pet-appropriate paths along the shoreline where dogs can cool off during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90 degrees. Water access points allow supervised pets to swim in designated areas, though owners should check for specific pet swimming restrictions. Thomas Hunting Grounds offers more rustic camping with pets in a free yellow post site format, though facilities are minimal with no drinking water or restrooms. Wilderness Lakes RV Resort provides a more developed alternative with full hookups and pet-friendly cabins. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours that apply to barking dogs, with some guests reporting enforcement varies on busy weekends when the campgrounds can become crowded.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Moreno Valley (276)
1. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
"Already been here twice once in 01/25 and 11/25 great campsite some have access to running water facet if not there are some that are close by, have also close by trash bins, has a little shop near by"
"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! "
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $300 / night
2. Yucaipa Regional Park
"The green spaces are full of stickers and mostly unusable for things like walking dogs, kids playing. I was charged junk fees. $7 to make the reservation myself online and then $1 per pet, per night."
"There’s no larger wildlife, like bears, so less stressful when you have pets or kids. Plenty of space to bring bikes and ride around."
3. Rancho Jurupa RV Park
"Nice level grounds to walk around. Lakeside has gravel roads / pads... other side has asphalt roads / concrete pads. Restrooms are clean and acceptable."
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $40 - $55 / night
4. Dogwood
"Each trail I used offered lovely views. This campground is huge, yet felt homey. My cat watched the squirrels play on nearby trees from the RV."
"Stayed a couple years in a row with me family. ( and dog) site large enough for two large family tents. Picnic table and fire ring."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $40 - $81 / night
5. Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort
"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."
"When you enter the park, they give you a map and you drive around and choose the site you like and park."
6. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites
"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. Banning Stagecoach KOA
"Very clean, dog friendly ( with dog park) helpful nice staff, propane available, small playground and swimming pool, picnic tables and grills at each site"
"The dog park was honestly amazing, I loved it & then dogs loved it."
8. March Air Reserve Base
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $35 / night
9. Mission RV Park
"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."
10. Fisherman's Retreat
"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."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 9 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 27 min from San Diego, CA
- 1 hr 59 min from Oxnard, CA
- 2 hrs 12 min from El Centro, CA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Moreno Valley, CA
208 Photos of 276 Moreno Valley Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground
Yucaipa Regional Parkc
Country Hills RV Park ResortR
Rancho Jurupa RV Park
Bogart County Park
Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV ParkK
Limber Pine Bench Campground
Dogwood
Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites
Wandering Caboose RanchM
Down To Earth Echoshire
Zephyr Mountain Avocado Grove
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Moreno Valley, CA
1976 Reviews of 276 Moreno Valley Campgrounds
- D
Douglas E.
TravelerDel Mar RV Park and Marina
Great military camp site
Very clean. Right in the beach. Good managers. It has been fantastic
- TTanya T.Scout
Mountain Lakes Resort - Membership Campground
OCTOBER 2026
Site is clean, many activities on weekends They also add 1000lb or catfish and trout weekly depending on season. Members were friendly. Downside is wifi when the campsite is 75+ full and only about a dozen paved spots. Major are gravel and dirt.
- DDouglas E.Traveler
Guajome Regional Park
Nice place
Clean, beautiful, hookups work, bathrooms/showers are clean. The lake is serene. Professional photographers are abound to take wedding and/or family pics here. Really wonderful. I almost don’t want to recommend it to keep others from flooding this gem.
- HHope H.
GuideSan Clemente State Beach Campground
Sites Near RR Tracks are Ocean View
I didn't book very early but was able to get a site right across from the lifeguard station. The sunset view was quintessential California and maybe even worth the price of admission, which is pretty steep at $53 for tent camping and freeway noise.
The restrooms vary, so if one is particularly distasteful, head to a quieter area of the campground.
RR noise isn't bad, as the crossing is far enough away that the horn blast seems quite distant. I-5 is very noisy however. There are lots of on/off ramps in that area, and with hills to climb it just makes for a lot of engine noise.
Aaron S.
RangerRound Valley Campsite — Mount San Jacinto State Park
Gooseberry Site, Alpine Wilderness & A Critical Backcountry Safety Wake-Up
Reviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is an incredible experience. By pairing the world-famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a weekend wilderness trek, you can leave the scorching low desert and step into sub-alpine granite peaks within minutes. Our crew recently packed our gear, caught the tram, and set up basecamp at the Gooseberry site for a Friday-to-Saturday summit push of Mount San Jacinto.
The scenery and wilderness delivered on every level—but the trip also served as a stark reminder that high-altitude nature commands respect.
The Route & Camp Setup (Gooseberry Site)
Taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway bypasses thousands of vertical feet of grueling desert switchbacks, depositing you at Mountain Station:
- The Trek into Round Valley: From the tram station, it is a scenic~2.5-mile backpack into Round Valley, which sits at an elevation of roughly 9,100 feet.
- The Gooseberry Campsite: Gooseberry is a fantastic primitive backcountry site. Tucked among the lodgepole pines and granite boulders, it offers great shelter, peace, and that genuine wilderness seclusion you crave.
- The Summit Push: We spent Friday night acclimating and resting at basecamp. Early Saturday morning, we pushed for the summit of Mount San Jacinto Peak(10,834 feet). After taking in the panoramic views stretching from the Pacific to the Salton Sea, we descended back to Round Valley, packed up camp, and made the return trek to the tram for the ride down.
The October Shoulder Season: Nature Changes in Minutes
We chose to hike late in the season during October, and anyone heading up during shoulder months needs to understand high-elevation weather:
- T****he Forecast Mirage: On the morning of our summit push, the official forecast predicted clear, sunny skies by noon.
- The High-Alpine Reality: Noon rolled around, and the weather did the exact opposite—we were hit with biting snow flurries and temperatures plunging straight into the 20s.
- Within just two hours, a crisp autumn morning morphed into full-blown freezing winter conditions.
A Serious Backcountry Advisory: 50 Years on the Trail Speaks
As someone with over 50 years of hiking and backpacking experience spanning every corner of the American West, what we witnessed on the trail between Round Valley and the peak was alarming.
We encountered dozens of hikers completely unprepared for foul weather:
- The Outfit: People trekking toward a 10,834-foot alpine peak in short shorts, cotton t-shirts, light sneakers, and carrying little more than a tiny hydration bladder with a couple of snack bars. No insulation, no wind protection, no emergency gear.
- Missing Essentials: Not a single one of the Ten Essentials in sight.
- The Dangerous Mindset: Yes, 99% of the time, casual hikers get lucky and escape without incident. But cell service, 911, and volunteer Search& Rescue teams are not your personal safety net—preparedness and basic common sense are.
- The Golden Rule: Any hiker stepping foot into this wilderness must carry the gear to survive an unexpected night out in freezing conditions. An ankle sprain, altitude sickness, or a sudden squall can turn a fun day hike into hypothermia, acute suffering, or worse. Don't be that guy or gal.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Mount San Jacinto Wilderness and Round Valley’s Gooseberry site delivered everything an outdoor enthusiast could want: pristine trails, incredible pine-scented air, and raw wilderness beauty. Just never forget that nature can bite hard if you let your guard down. Pack your layers, bring your essentials, respect the mountain, and you will have an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
Kimberly E.ScoutBear Lake
Exceptional camping experience. Beautiful, secluded, but not far from town. Would recommend a vehicle you feel comfortable with off roading terrain.
Hans V.RangerSouth Ridge Yellow Post Sites
The first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
- SSonali U.Traveler
Caravan Mobile Home Park
If it’s there, I missed it.
I went there to see, before making a reservation. I found the trailer park—maybe 100 old mobile homes—but I never found an RV park. I didn’t see anything to see. The “pool” was empty. The office was locked, and it wasn’t lunch. Just kinda not happening. I left a message to call me with the answering service, but I never got a call back.
Guide to Moreno Valley
Lake Perris State Recreational Area sits at 1,560 feet elevation and serves as a primary camping destination near Moreno Valley, California. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and mild winters, creating year-round camping opportunities. Most campgrounds in the area are within a 30-minute drive of downtown Moreno Valley, providing convenient access for weekend getaways.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Perris offers consistently good fishing with multiple species available. "This lake has been good to me and my friends, always catch something, maybe not a lunker but fun," notes John H. about Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground. The lake is stocked regularly and accessible from various points around the shore.
Hiking nearby: Several trails with varied difficulty levels surround the camping areas. At Yucaipa Regional Park, visitors can access the Zanja Peak Trailhead directly from the campground. As Bryan H. explains, "Great tent camping facilities, privacy from neighbors, access to Zanja Peak Trail head, 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff."
Swimming and cooling off: Multiple locations offer water access during hot months. Yucaipa Regional Park features both lakes and a splash pad for children. During summer, "There is a splash zone," mentions Ken B., which provides relief from the heat while still enjoying outdoor activities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards throughout their facilities. At Dogwood, "The facilities were well kept and clean," says Jeremiah F. "All the sites are large and well spaced from others, most are shaded as well."
Large campsites: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers spacious sites with concrete pads and grassy areas. "Large concrete pads that can handle any rig. So much to do all around a park," says Paul C. The space between sites allows for more privacy than typically found at crowded campgrounds.
Variety of camping options: From primitive sites to full-hookup RV spaces, the area offers diverse camping styles. For rustic experiences, Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites provides free camping with minimal facilities. "Located in the Santa Rosa mountain range, the yellow post campsites of Little Thomas are free and offer very minimal amenities," Shannon C. explains. "It's super close to Lake Hemet so if you need anything you forgot, you can go quickly to the store."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Lake Perris can fill completely on summer weekends and holidays. For last-minute trips, yellow post sites at Thomas Hunting Grounds offer first-come, first-served options.
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures frequently climb above 90°F, requiring proper hydration and shade planning. Winter nights can be surprisingly cold. At Dogwood Campground, "It's cool in June even," notes Janet S., making it a good option during hotter months.
Campground noise levels: Some locations experience more noise than others, particularly on weekends. "Fellow campers play music loud and it's more of a low class party area then camping," reports Paul C. about certain times at Lake Perris. Weekday camping generally provides a quieter experience across all locations.
Uneven terrain: Many campsites feature uneven ground that requires careful setup. At Rancho Jurupa RV Park, Troy A. notes that the "Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen" with "Ranger on constant patrol," providing a well-maintained option despite the natural terrain of the region.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple parks offer water features specifically designed for children. "Yucaipa Regional Park has 3 lakes for fishing, water park during the summer, and friendly helpful staff," shares Bryan H. These water features provide entertainment during hot days when hiking might be uncomfortable.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include dedicated play areas. At Banning Stagecoach KOA, visitors find a "small playground and swimming pool, picnic tables and grills at each site," according to Kelly N. The combination of swimming and playground equipment keeps children engaged throughout the day.
Educational opportunities: Lake Perris features a museum with local history exhibits. "There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," mentions Lauren R. These educational elements add value to family camping trips beyond just outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, David N. advises, "They don't have enough 50amp sites and not all of them are always working. This park is first come / first served and they don't prohibit a 30amp rig from taking a 50amp site."
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. Lake Perris campers note that "A lot of spaces are unleveled but it's not a deal breaker," according to Troy A. Bringing proper leveling blocks is essential for comfortable setup at most locations.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. Some locations have surprisingly good coverage, while others are limited. "Verizon service is only 2 bars but I can still work," reports Anneliese S. about Yucaipa Regional Park, making it suitable for those needing to stay connected during their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
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Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Moreno Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Moreno Valley, CA is Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 45 reviews.
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dog-friendly camping near
Moreno Valley, CA?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Moreno Valley, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 276 dog-friendly camping locations near Moreno Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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