Best Campgrounds near Perris, CA

Many camping options surround Perris in Southern California, ranging from mountain to beach settings. Serrano Campground in San Bernardino National Forest has good hiking trails and makes a quiet place to stay. Crystal Cove State Park sits by the Pacific with sites that look out over the ocean and good spots for checking out tide pools. The desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park works for both tent and RV camping, with interesting rock formations throughout the park. If you want to surf, San Mateo Campground at San Onofre State Beach puts you close to good waves. Lake Hemet Campground has fishing and boat rentals for people who want to spend time on the water. Spring and fall bring the best weather to camp in this region, as summer gets really hot, particularly in Joshua Tree. You should book ahead during busy seasons since these places fill up fast. Most have bathrooms, showers and tables. Always check if places are open before you go, as some close seasonally. While camping, you can visit the Perris Auto Speedway or the Orange Empire Railway Museum on day trips. From desert to coastline, the camping around Perris covers pretty much every type of outdoor setting.

Best Camping Sites Near Perris, California (364)

    1. Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    38 Reviews
    Moreno Valley, CA
    6 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!  "

    "Good experience at lake perris we had our travel trailer plugged in with electrical and water, grey tank empty only on site."

    2. Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    Menifee, CA
    9 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. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    18 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."

    4. 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."

    5. Blue Jay Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

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

    $20 / night

    "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."

    "clean restrooms and sites. large campground with paved roads was nice for strolling through. pretty far off the beaten path above lake elsinore. the views near by were fantastic. the staff was fairly friendly"

    6. Rancho Jurupa RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Riverside, CA
    17 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."

    7. Yucaipa Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Yucaipa, CA
    20 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!"

    8. O'Neill Regional Park

    30 Reviews
    Trabuco Canyon, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (949) 923-2260

    $20 / night

    "It's tucked back in the canyon, but you will still hear all the traffic from the road. Since it is a canyon, many loud cars and motorcycles zoom past at high speeds. 

    Free dump station.  "

    "Behind my Camp site was a few different hiking paths. Restroom buildings have water, toilets, and showers. It says to bring quarters for the showers but they were free. Each site is typical..."

    9. El Cariso Campground

    9 Reviews
    Lake Elsinore, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 736-1811

    $15 / night

    "The campground was right off the highway, cost affective ($15/night), and there were no reservations needed. There were 24 sites tucked in the woods. A few water faucets & bathrooms throughout."

    "Albeit it’s just off the road and Ortega highway is fairly busy at all hours of the night, so road noise was a little annoying but not bad. Self pay was easy and quick."

    10. Palm View RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Quail Valley, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 657-7791

    "If you don't have anybody walk on over next to the garden to find some nice goats and sheep and up on the little hill there's cute chickens of all whom can be pet as for they are all used to being pet."

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Recent Reviews near Perris, CA

1858 Reviews of 364 Perris 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.😉

  • 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.

  • 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 Perris

Camping near Perris, California, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From beachside spots to serene mountain retreats, there’s something for everyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at San Clemente State Beach Campground. It's just a short walk to the beach, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. One camper mentioned, “The walk to the beach was close, seemed maybe about 10 minutes till we reached the beach from our site.”
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Serrano Campground. A reviewer noted, “There is a biking trail that goes through the campground that was well used,” making it a great spot for outdoor activities.
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Hemet Campground for some fishing fun. One visitor shared, “The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time,” highlighting the lake's appeal for anglers.

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the stunning views at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. A happy camper said, “Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind,” making it a picturesque spot for relaxation.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park, one reviewer remarked, “Bathrooms are extremely clean,” which is always a plus when camping.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach are noted for their family-friendly vibe. A camper mentioned, “Great spot with good privacy,” making it ideal for families looking to enjoy some quality time together.

What you should know

  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground noted, “It can get very crowded and packed,” so plan your trip accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like San Mateo Campground, lack certain amenities like electric hookups. A reviewer pointed out, “The upper campground has water and electricity,” but it’s good to check what’s available before you go.
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially near busy roads or train tracks. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, “The train is loud, but passes seldom,” so keep that in mind when choosing your site.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. At Lake Hemet Campground, one camper said, “You can fit two 10' x10' canopies to cover the bench table,” which is great for family gatherings.
  • Plan Activities: Bring along games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A family at Bonelli Bluffs found it peaceful, saying, “The campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, “There’s a small shop/cafe with live music,” which can be a fun treat for the family.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground said, “The roads could use some work and if you have a RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level.”
  • Be Mindful of Noise: If you’re sensitive to noise, consider sites further from common areas. A camper at San Clemente State Beach Campground noted, “It is loud, even if it isn’t because your neighbors are on top of you.”
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A visitor at Doheny State Beach Campground mentioned, “There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine,” which can save you time during your trip.

Camping in Perris, CA, and the surrounding areas offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best camping options at Lake Perris?

Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground offers excellent camping opportunities with diverse amenities. The campground features sites near the lake with swimming areas, bike paths, hiking trails, and a camp store that provides boat rentals. For those seeking alternatives near Perris, Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park provides drive-in access with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. Lake Perris can get crowded on weekends and holidays with a lively atmosphere, so weekday visits are recommended for a quieter experience. The campground also offers educational opportunities with an on-site museum featuring local history and Native American exhibits.

Is RV camping available at Lake Perris and what are the facilities?

Yes, RV camping is available at Lake Perris with good facilities. The campground offers sites with electrical and water hookups for travel trailers and RVs. There are no sewer connections directly at the sites, but dump stations are available near the park exit. For those seeking a more luxurious RV experience near Perris, Pala Casino Spa Resort offers upscale RV accommodations. Rancho Jurupa RV Park is another nearby option with reservable sites that are big-rig friendly with full hookups. Lake Perris campground has varying site sizes that can accommodate medium to large RVs, though it can get crowded during peak times with limited privacy between sites.

Can you camp at Lake Perris with beach or lake access?

Yes, camping with beach and lake access is available at Lake Perris. Visitors can enjoy multiple water activities as the campground is situated right next to the lake with designated swimming areas. The lake offers clear water for swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. For those seeking alternative beach camping experiences in Southern California, Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground provides beachfront camping with concrete/asphalt sites featuring water and electric hookups. The campground is steps away from great sand beaches adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway. Serrano is another option where you can camp just a few steps away from the water, offering an immersive lake experience.

What is the campground map layout at Lake Perris?

Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground features a layout with multiple camping loops and numbered sites. The campground is situated adjacent to the lake, with some loops offering more direct lake views and access than others. Sites are numbered (examples include 203-220, 283-317, and 293), allowing for specific reservations. The layout includes sites with varying levels of shade and privacy, though many are exposed to the sun. Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers a similar layout with multiple access options including boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in sites. The Lake Perris campground layout includes designated areas for RVs with hookups, centralized facilities like restrooms, and convenient access to the lake's recreational areas including swimming beaches and boat launches.