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Best Campgrounds near Murrieta, CA

1,707 Reviews

Campgrounds near Murrieta, California range from developed RV resorts to primitive tent sites within a short drive of the city. Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers tent, partial, and full hookup sites with amenities including a camp store and fishing opportunities, while Dripping Springs Campground provides a more rustic experience with basic facilities. The region includes several campgrounds with cabin accommodations, including Temecula-Vail Lake KOA and Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, both offering year-round access for various camping styles including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals.

Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly throughout the area, with most developed campgrounds featuring paved access suitable for all vehicles. Many campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during peak seasons and weekends when facilities fill quickly. The climate supports year-round camping, though summer temperatures can reach uncomfortable highs, especially at lower elevations. Winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, making spring and fall ideal for tent camping. Cell service is generally reliable near established campgrounds but may be limited in more remote areas. According to one visitor, "If you live in the Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore area this is the perfect campground for a quick and easy getaway. They have some beautiful sites and some good hikes."

Campers report high satisfaction with sites that offer water proximity, with Lake Skinner receiving positive reviews for its "beautiful" lake and boating options. The area's proximity to Temecula wine country creates additional recreational opportunities, with several campgrounds positioned within a short drive of local wineries. Pechanga RV Resort stands out for its walkable access to casino amenities and proximity to wineries, which one reviewer described as "walking distance to casino, pool, world renown golf course, restaurants, sports park facilities... take an Uber to the amazing wineries approx 5 min drive." For those seeking a more natural experience, campgrounds in the surrounding mountains and forests provide hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and scenic views, though these tend to be farther from urban conveniences.

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Best Camping Sites Near Murrieta, California (322)

    1. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    9 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."

    2. Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    Menifee, CA
    8 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. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA

    20 Reviews
    Cleveland National Forest, CA
    14 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."

    4. Blue Jay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

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

    $20 / night

    "If you live in the Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore area this is the perfect campground for a quick and easy getaway. They have some beautiful sites and some good hikes."

    "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."

    5. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    38 Reviews
    Moreno Valley, CA
    21 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."

    6. Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Lake Elsinore, CA
    12 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."

    7. Pechanga RV Resort

    8 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 587-0484

    "Very nice facilities, newer, walking distance to casino, pool, world renown golf course, restaurants, sports park facilities… take an Uber to the amazing wineries approx 5 min drive."

    "Close to freeway and golf courses. Lots of places to eat close by."

    8. San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach

    53 Reviews
    San Clemente, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 492-4872

    $45 - $250 / night

    "San Mateo is one of the better beach campgrounds in California, some sites have some great privacy."

    "Another beautiful gem along the California Coast. Although not on or too near the beach, this campground is truly a lovely spot. All or most of the campsites boast a bit of privacy."

    9. Dripping Springs Campground

    15 Reviews
    Aguanga, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 788-0250

    $25 - $50 / night

    "One of the water faucets with potable water was on the outskirts of our space, not at all bothersome. The toilets and dumpster were conveniently close, but not too close to be noticed."

    "It's close proximity to Temecula makes it easy to get to. Also, because it is small there were no issues with noise or traffic."

    10. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

    22 Reviews
    Coto de Caza, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2210

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Tucked on the outskirts of Mission Viejo is an oasis of green grass and groves of the twisting and searching limbs of Coastal Live Oak trees.  "

    "Rangers at entrance to check for pets (not allowed) and where you can buy bundles of wood for $5 if you want. Technically not allowed to bring in outside wood."

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Recent Camping Photos near Murrieta, CA

577 Photos of 322 Murrieta Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Murrieta, CA

1707 Reviews of 322 Murrieta Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • 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.

Guide to Murrieta

Camping near Murrieta, California, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for beach access or mountain views, there’s something for everyone.

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. Beach access. Lots of sites."
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore trails at San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach. 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 Relaxing: 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:

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Murrieta, CA, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds near Murrieta, CA?

Murrieta offers several nearby camping options within a short drive. Blue Jay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED is particularly convenient for Murrieta residents seeking a quick nature getaway with beautiful sites and good hiking trails. For those willing to drive a bit further, Dripping Springs Campground offers large, flat sites with nice shade trees and access to potable water. Other options in the region include O'Neill Regional Park, San Mateo Campground, and several state beaches within 30-45 minutes. The area provides a mix of mountain, canyon, and beach camping experiences, making it ideal for weekend trips without extensive travel.

What lake camping options exist near Murrieta?

Several lake camping options are available near Murrieta. Temecula-Vail Lake KOA offers camping on the shores of Vail Lake with water activities during appropriate seasons. Just a short drive away, Lake Elsinore provides lakeside camping at Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park with full hookups and direct lake access for water sports and fishing. For those willing to drive a bit further, Lake Perris Recreation Area offers both developed campgrounds and primitive sites with swimming areas and boat launches. Lake Hemet, nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, provides a mountain lake experience with fishing opportunities and scenic views. Each location offers different amenities and water recreation options throughout the year.

What RV parks are available in Murrieta, CA?

Murrieta and its surrounding area offer several quality RV parks. Pechanga RV Resort stands out with its newer facilities, proximity to the casino, pool access, and being within minutes of local wineries. It's a full-service resort with amenities expected of a high-end RV park. Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park provides a more natural setting while still accommodating RVs. For those who prefer beach proximity, several coastal options exist within driving distance, including South Carlsbad State Beach Campground and San Onofre State Beach, though these tend to book up quickly. Most RV parks in the area offer water and electric hookups, with some providing full hookups including sewer connections.

Are there good fishing spots at camping areas near Murrieta?

The Murrieta area offers several good fishing opportunities near campgrounds. Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park provides direct access to Lake Elsinore, a popular fishing destination for bass, catfish, and carp. Bonelli Bluffs at Puddingstone Lake is another option with good fishing opportunities, though it's more suited for families with its lakeside setting. For coastal fishing, consider the campgrounds at Doheny State Beach or San Clemente, where surf fishing is popular. Most fishing locations near Murrieta require a California fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores. Check local regulations for catch limits and seasonal restrictions.

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