RV sites near Winchester, California provide easy access to the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Elsinore, and Temecula Valley Wine Country. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 feet, with temperatures fluctuating dramatically between summer highs reaching 100°F and winter lows in the 30s. Seasonal considerations include Santa Ana winds in fall and occasional winter snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Explore water recreation: Launch Pointe Recreation Destination in Lake Elsinore offers lake access and water activities, though water conditions vary. "We spent Spring break here with the family. Amenities are very good for young kids. 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," shares one visitor at Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park.
Visit local attractions: Stay at campgrounds with convenient access to area highlights. "Being reasonably close to our home base, we frequent this park with the family. Major grocery and shopping establishments are nearby, with Target directly across the street, In-n-Out, local parks, and the like," notes a visitor about Golden Village Palms RV Resort. The resort's location puts you within 30 minutes of Winchester attractions.
Venture into mountain terrain: Higher elevation camping offers cooler temperatures during summer. "When I first got to Idyllwild, a little heat wave was hanging around, but by the 2nd week, the weather was beautiful. They have plenty of spots for tents, RV's, and cabins. Surrounded by spruce trees, pine trees, and scotch pines reminded me of being Back East," writes a camper about Thousand Trails Idyllwild, located approximately 45 minutes from Winchester.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Clean grounds and organized campsite layouts receive consistent praise. "This place is surprisingly nice for being in the middle of the city. It was very well-kept and clean nice family environment," reports one camper about Rancho Jurupa RV Park, which is about 30 minutes from Winchester.
Family-friendly amenities: Water features and play areas make camping with children easier. "Beautiful campground for families. Lots of activities for the kids to do, like smores by the fire, art, splash pad, and play ground. Facility was clean," shares one visitor about Launch Pointe Recreation Destination.
Security features: Gated access and staff presence enhance safety at many area campgrounds. "This place was nice. Great sense of community and great placement of the gates for safety purposes. Lots of food spots within 10 minutes. Spaces are one of the cleanest I seen. Ranger is on constant patrol," notes a camper at Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects quiet at some locations. "The reason it got 3 stars is its location being up in the mountains in a state forest is a nice place to relax unwind and get away from the rat race," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Reservation strategies: Last-minute bookings may work at certain times. "There is always a spot or 2 open. Staff are always polite," reports a visitor about Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort, located about 20 minutes from Winchester.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "I wonder if the hotel rooms have timer on the showers as well. The person who came up with this idea should take showers in there each night. It pet-friendly resort, they also have an area for dogs," shares a visitor to Pechanga RV Resort, noting the area's temperature variations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "Our kids love the pool area, grandparents love the pickleball courts, and there are always fun activities to do throughout the year. Full-timers are friendly and inclusive of newcomers and passer-throughs," notes a visitor at Golden Village Palms RV Resort.
Group site considerations: Assess terrain before booking. "Took Girl Scouts here for group camping. Rocky and sand. The family camping was fine! Girls used Porta Potties. I'm hoping they have finished construction on something better since then. However, there are some great kid friendly activities," advises a camper about Rancho Jurupa RV Park.
Pool availability: Heated pools extend swimming seasons. "We enjoyed the pool, watching the ducks in the pond, and the kids loved the basketball court. Some parts closed on certain days- store, jacuzzi, community room," mentions a visitor at Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Corner sites offer advantages. "Staying at site #421 which I think is the best one here because none parked to the immediate sides and has a big hill on the side for exercise and adds privacy. Some sites looked uneven but this one was surprisingly even," advises an RVer at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Approach routes: Consider alternative driving paths to higher elevation campgrounds. "I recommend coming in and out from Anza passing by lake Hemet, if your towing towards your max capacity. Gradual straight climb through 75% of the way. Takes about 20-30 minutes longer then the other ways but work the saving the strain on your truck and drive," suggests a camper about Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Leveling requirements: Bring adequate leveling equipment. "Our Site was not level at all. We carry a lot of leveling blocks and are not even close to level still nose down with 4 2x8s and Jack at max extension. Side to side level took one board under left side. We Had to get more lumber in town to level travel the trailer from front to rear," cautions an RVer at Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
