Lake Skinner Recreation Area lies in a valley between the Santa Ana Mountains and San Jacinto range at an elevation of about 1,700 feet. The area gets approximately 14 inches of rain annually, mostly between November and March. Campgrounds near Winchester offer year-round access with temperatures reaching 100°F in summer months and occasionally dropping below freezing in winter.
What to do
Fishing with permits: Lake Skinner requires a Riverside County lakes fishing permit in addition to a California state license. "The lake does have fish, so if you're a fisherman you're going to love this campground," notes david N. from Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
Hiking options: Trail systems connect many campgrounds to mountain paths. "Marion Mt. Campground is one of the best camping sites in Southern California. Located in a beautiful mountain setting this site provides all the peace and tranquility a soul longs for," writes Thomas E. about Marion Mountain.
Biking routes: Flat terrain makes cycling accessible for beginners. "It's family friendly, great flat biking for kids, large dirt area used for parking during the Balloon and Wine festival that kids can play on and ride bikes in," explains Erin & Travis M. regarding Lake Skinner.
Visit local attractions: Campgrounds serve as convenient basecamps. "Right outside the Temecula Wine Country and Old Town Temecula," mentions Andy H. about Lake Skinner, which sits just 15-20 minutes from wine tasting options.
What campers like
Waterfront activities: Many campsites offer lake access or views. "The lake with all the blow up toys was a blast! Every site has a picnic table and fire ring. We rented a boat and went out on the lake to do some fishing," shares Jennifer D. about Lake Hemet Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules. "The bathrooms and showers were clean! The park is well maintained, multiple trails for biking, running or just taking a nice walk," notes Timothy A. regarding Lake Skinner.
Wildlife viewing: Natural habitats support diverse species. "We happened to be there during the poppy super bloom and the butterfly migration so that was also really cool!" recounts Jennifer D. about Lake Skinner. Campers at Lake Hemet report bald eagle sightings while fishing.
Family amenities: Recreation areas include various activities. "We enjoyed the pool, watching the ducks in the pond, and the kids loved the basketball court," explains carolina from Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate throughout the year. "When the water level is way up, it's even prettier!" notes Christina R. about Lake Hemet. Many campers mention diminished lakefronts during drought periods.
Fee structures: Additional costs beyond site rental apply at most locations. "I loved this campground but wasn't a fan of the extra fees. They charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake," mentions Jennifer D. about Lake Skinner.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season. "Not able to use fire pits due to fire restrictions," reports Isabelle S. from Marion Mountain. Check current rules before arrival as they change based on fire danger levels.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is because it's right next to the freeway so it was loud ... which doesn't bother me during the day but was distracting at night," explains Michelle Z. about Cherry Valley Lakes.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Splash pads offer safe alternatives to lake swimming. "On the flip side they have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost!" shares Jennifer D. about Lake Skinner, where reservoir swimming is prohibited.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events keep children engaged. "Launch Pointe was a great stay for our family and dog! The campground was clean as can be- no overflowing garbages, all utilities tastefully hidden. The privacy fence in each spot is nice and our kids loved the playground," reports Stephen H. from Launch Pointe Recreation Destination and RV Park.
Pet policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. "This is a great park located 15min from the city. It has three main camping areas that cater to campers, RVs and horses," explains Berton M. about Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, which notably prohibits dogs but allows horses.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds feature varied terrain. "We chose site #20, it was little bit of a trek from the parking spot to our camp, but the site was extremely spacious and secluded," shares Collier T. about Marion Mountain.
Hookup availability: Electrical capabilities differ between sites. "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," warns david N. about Wilderness Lakes.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. "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," reports Time4Dirt about Thousand Trails Idyllwild.
Water precautions: Winter camping requires additional preparation. "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," advises Donovan about Lake Hemet Campground.
