Camping options near Murrieta, California range from mountains at 5,000+ feet elevation to desert areas with significant temperature variations. The area typically experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters, while higher elevation sites like Palomar Mountain stay 10-15 degrees cooler year-round. Local campgrounds offer varying levels of luxury accommodations from basic sites to fully-equipped glamping experiences with dedicated amenities for different camping preferences.
What to do
Lake activities at Lake Skinner: Water recreation ranges from fishing for stocked fish to paddle sports, with a splash pad for children during summer months. "The lake does have fish, so if you're a fisherman you're going to love this campground," notes a visitor at Lake Skinner Recreation Area. Fishing requires a Riverside County lakes permit for each day in addition to a California state license.
Visit Temecula wine country: Many glamping locations in Murrieta provide easy access to nearby wine tasting. "Right outside the Temecula Wine Country and Old Town Temecula," reports one camper at Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park, noting it's "central to southern California mountains of north, south, and east in addition to beaches 1-2 hours west."
Hiking with elevation changes: Trails vary from flat walking paths to more challenging terrain. At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, "There are a number of hiking trails around that range from a 1 to 12 miles. On Saturdays there's a nature walk." The park was previously covered by the Pacific Ocean, leaving marine fossils along riverbanks for nature enthusiasts to discover.
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: While enjoying nature, campers appreciate having services nearby. "This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee. It has tent, partial, and full hookup sites along with a camp store, fishing, biking, bathrooms, and day use areas," explains a reviewer at Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
Family-friendly recreation options: Parents mention the variety of activities for children. At Palomar Mountain State Park Campground, "There are several trails nearby with a great mix of easy and moderate hikes that are easily accessible and clearly marked. Palomar Observatory is only 5 miles up the road." The observatory offers scientific exploration opportunities after daytime adventures.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance the glamping experience. "Tons of little animals hanging out (rabbits, birds, chipmunks). Those chipmunks will definitely go for your stuff if you don't pack it away," warns a visitor at Caspers Wilderness Park. Deer and even wild turkeys are commonly spotted at several campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping comfort significantly. A camper at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort notes, "We didn't particularly care for the area, it was not far enough out to feel like in serene nature but still far to drive to anything. It didn't help that it rained a lot and the streets turned into lakes."
Limited connectivity: Cell service and internet access vary widely. At Launch Pointe, a digital nomad reported: "Internet was great but it had bandwidth restraints that would turn your internet off after very small amounts of data used. There was no option to upgrade so you had to use your own hotspots."
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites fill quickly. The most luxurious accommodations at Wilderness Lakes RV Resort and Lake Hemet Campground should be booked well in advance, particularly during summer and holiday weekends when premium spots with lake views are in highest demand.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad alternatives: During hot months, water features provide cooling recreation. "They have a pool, splash pad, park, dog park and access to the lake. They also have a band on Saturday nights," shares a visitor at Launch Pointe Recreation Destination, providing alternatives when lake access is limited.
Campground noise levels: Site selection affects sleep quality. "The only negative is the crowds for the water park area on the weekends. Don't want a spot too close," advises a camper at Lake Hemet Campground. Sites further from recreational facilities generally offer more peaceful evenings.
Varying bathroom facilities: Restroom quality differs between campgrounds. At Palomar Mountain, "The bathrooms are well kept and include flush toilets and showers, but make sure to bring quarters for the showers." Some sites have only vault toilets or portable facilities, so research carefully when glamping with children.
Tips from RVers
Electrical limitations: Power needs require planning at certain sites. At Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, "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." RVers with high power requirements should arrive early or consider alternative locations.
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have unique layouts affecting larger vehicles. A reviewer at Bluffs Campground — San Onofre State Beach shares: "You get a concrete parking spot that parks about 2 long RVs, and a very small 10x10 dirt patch. Some sites are bigger than others, but all of them include a fire pit ring with grill & a wooden picnic table."
Water connection issues: Seasonal temperature changes affect water systems. At Lake Hemet, "Bring insulation for your water hose or have some type of method that will keep your water lines from freezing. Our water hose froze the first night." Even in Southern California, higher elevation glamping locations can experience freezing temperatures during winter months.
