Camping sites near Wildomar, California range from lake-adjacent to mountain wilderness settings, offering diverse terrain within a 20-mile radius. Summer temperatures in this region can reach 100°F in July and August, particularly in lower elevations near Lake Elsinore, while winter nights often drop into the 40s. Campsites in the area typically cost between $20-45 per night depending on amenities and location.
What to do
Hiking near waterfalls: At Blue Jay Campground, visitors can access several waterfall trails within a short drive. "Went on two great hikes, both to the nearby waterfalls. Each hike was beautiful," notes one camper who appreciated the accessible trails from this campground.
Mountain biking on designated trails: The terrain around O'Neill Regional Park provides excellent opportunities for cyclists. A visitor mentioned, "This site is great if you like hiking, biking, MTB, and running... There are many hiking trails nearby in all directions. I usually ride to Caspers from the campsite or Trabruco creak up to Holy Jim."
Fishing with permit: Several lakes in the area allow fishing with proper permits. At Launch Pointe Recreation Destination, fishing requires additional fees. "The fishing costs an extra fee per day on top of your California State License, so it's a bit pricy. There are also nice hiking trails near the campground," explains one camper.
Splash pad water play: For families with children, water features provide relief from summer heat. "They have a super nice splash pad that's no additional cost! There are lots of walking trails," reports a camper at Lake Skinner Recreation Area, noting the amenity is particularly valuable since swimming in the reservoir itself isn't permitted.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate campgrounds that offer separation between sites. At San Mateo Campground, "most of the spots are super private! A fun little hike (1.5 miles) to the walk until tresels beach. I think it's 2 miles all together. The beach is beautiful, great for surfing!"
Clean shower facilities: Access to well-maintained bathrooms ranks high in positive reviews. "Bathrooms and showers are standard. Want to surf? Walk the short trail for 10-15 and you're set!" notes a San Mateo Campground visitor who appreciated the combination of amenities and outdoor access.
Proximity to wineries: Temecula wine country provides an additional activity option for adult campers. One visitor to Temecula/Vail Lake KOA observed that the campground "has an established rotation of regular guests that come for access to wine country. She said KOA inherited the bar and it's regular loyal following."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting offers chances to see local fauna. A camper at Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park reported, "There is a cute playground for kids, a nature center where you can enjoy viewing through the telescope overlooking almost all of the 8,000 acres of the Caspers WP. If you like hiking or mountain biking this is a great park for you!"
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans frequently impact camping experiences. At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, "they often have no burn times, these are dependent on the winds," explains a camper, highlighting the importance of checking current fire conditions before arrival.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Temecula/Vail Lake KOA, a camper reported, "We have solar so choose Arroyo Secco at first. We live/work out of the RV during the Covid pandemic, so we bought a cell booster and WiFi relay, but even they couldn't make any use of the provided WiFi."
Wildlife precautions: Campers should secure food and be aware of local wildlife. "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 to Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway traffic sounds. At El Cariso Campground, a visitor noted, "The campground was right off the highway... There were 24 sites tucked in the woods," and another mentioned, "Road noise is a problem but if you are just looking to get out locally and cheap it's a go for me."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-specific amenities: Family-oriented sites offer features designed for children. At Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park, "Great 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."
Consider bike-friendly campsites: Flat, paved areas allow for safe cycling. "It's a great place for a quick getaway from everyday living," says a camper at Lake Perris State Recreational Area, while another visitor to O'Neill Regional Park mentioned, "Recently paved streets (perfect for scootering, skating, biking)."
Look for educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer learning experiences. "There is a cool museum were the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes. Such a fun and peaceful place to hangout at!" explains a visitor to Lake Perris State Recreational Area.
Pack entertainment for varied weather: Temperature fluctuations can impact activities. A Blue Jay camper noted, "My family joined our extended family for a weekend away at Blue Jay campground. It is only an hour drive from our home in Newport Beach, but felt like we were a million miles away."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Some campgrounds have size limitations for RVs. A camper at San Mateo Campground advised, "Nice and relaxing here... Bring a bike to explore the loops and trail to beach... We enjoyed the view in our Skamper pop up from site with Electric hook up site 30. But other Electric sites had good views 24,26,27 and 28."
Consider site leveling needs: Uneven parking areas can challenge larger rigs. "We reserved a spot for a rig with slide outs on both sides to accommodate our 39'er but it took some creative parking to get the rig into the spot in a way that we could actually open both sides," reported a Launch Pointe visitor.
Water restrictions may apply: Drought conditions can impact hookups. At Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, a camper noted, "I had electric hookup but no water because of the drought," highlighting the importance of checking current water availability before arrival.
Generator policies vary: Noise regulations affect power options at some campgrounds. "By Friday night it was filled with huge fifth wheel RVs effectively boondocking with generators. Plenty of families with kids. By 10 pm generators are off and kids are asleep and it was very quiet," observed a visitor at Temecula/Vail Lake KOA.
