Lake Perris Campground

For Californians seeking a versatile and amenity-rich outdoor experience, Lake Perris Campground in Moreno Valley offers an exciting destination that blends lakeside recreation with diverse land activities. Situated within the Lake Perris State Recreation Area, this campground provides a convenient and enjoyable escape for individuals, families, and groups looking to make the most of Southern California's sunny weather and varied landscapes. It’s a place where you can switch from a morning hike to an afternoon of boating, all within the same scenic park.

Lake Perris Campground is designed to accommodate a wide range of camping preferences, from traditional tent sites to spacious RV hookup spots, and even dedicated horse and group camping areas. While popular, especially on weekends, its extensive facilities and numerous loops strive to offer a comfortable experience for everyone. The campground is praised for its generally clean environment and the beauty of the surrounding lake and semi-arid landscape, which often hosts abundant wildlife, including various birds, squirrels, and even friendly raccoons.

Beyond just camping, Lake Perris State Recreation Area is a hub for activity. The man-made lake, formed by Perris Dam, is central to the park's appeal, inviting visitors for swimming, fishing, and a variety of boating experiences. On land, a network of trails caters to hikers, bikers, and equestrians, while designated areas are available for rock climbing. For those who appreciate stargazing, the park even hosts astronomy events. Lake Perris Campground truly serves as a gateway to an array of outdoor adventures, making it a valuable resource for locals looking to enjoy California's vibrant outdoor lifestyle.

Lake Perris Campground is centrally located in Southern California at Campground Rd, Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA. This prime location places it within the vast Lake Perris State Recreation Area, making it easily accessible from various major metropolitan areas in the region, including Riverside, Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

The campground is conveniently situated off major highways. If coming from the north, visitors can take the I-215 freeway and exit at Moreno Beach Drive, heading south. From the south, taking the Ramona Expressway exit and heading east provides direct access. The park is well-signed, and using "Lake Perris State Recreation Area" or "17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571" in your GPS device will provide the most accurate navigation.

Within the campground, sites are generally flat, accommodating both tents and RVs. While many sites do not have an abundance of trees, leading to sound traveling, the overall layout of the campground with its various loops (e.g., Coyote, Quail, Deer, Roadrunner, Bobcat) provides ample space. The campground also offers accessible features throughout for those with disabilities, including accessible campsites with hookups, accessible restrooms, and beach wheelchairs available for checkout. It's important to note that while the park is open year-round, summer weekends and holidays can be very busy, leading to increased noise levels and a potentially less private feel for campsites. Planning weekday visits or during the off-season (December through early spring) can offer a more tranquil experience.

Lake Perris Campground boasts an impressive array of services designed to cater to various camping styles and enhance the overall visitor experience.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers over 400 campsites, including both family-sized and larger group-sized overnight campgrounds.
  • Hook-up / RV Camping: Numerous sites are equipped with electrical and water hookups, and some even offer sewer hookups (full hookups), accommodating RVs and trailers up to 40 feet in length.
  • Non-Hook-up / Tent Camping: Many sites are designated for tent camping or for RVs/trailers that do not require hookups.
  • Horse Camping: Separate horse camp facilities are available, complete with corrals, water troughs, and chemical toilets, accommodating campers with horses.
  • Group Camping: Large group campsites are available, which can accommodate up to 100 people and 20 vehicles per site, perfect for larger gatherings. These sites often include kitchen areas, sinks, and BBQ grills.
  • Hike-and-Bike Sites: Primitive sites specifically for hikers and bikers are available at a lower fee, accessible without a vehicle.
• Restrooms and Showers: Throughout the campground, visitors will find restrooms with flush toilets and coin-operated showers, providing a comfortable level of hygiene.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (with grates), ideal for cooking and enjoying campfires (fire restrictions permitting).
• RV Dump Stations: Convenient RV dump stations are available for a fee, typically near the nature center or campground office, allowing campers to easily dispose of wastewater.
• Potable Water: Water spigots are generally available throughout the campground loops for drinking and other uses.
• General Store/Marina: A general store at the marina provides essential supplies, snacks, and sometimes even fishing bait, adding convenience for campers.
• Accessible Features: The park offers a significant number of accessible campsites, restrooms, picnic areas, and even beach wheelchairs for loan, ensuring accessibility for visitors with disabilities.
• On-site Rangers and Staff: Park Rangers make regular rounds, and campground staff are available at kiosks or the office, contributing to safety and visitor assistance.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area, and its campground, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a premier destination for outdoor recreation in Southern California.

• Beautiful Lake for Water Recreation: The centerpiece of the park is Lake Perris itself, a man-made lake offering a wide array of water activities.
  • Boating: Permitting motorized boats, sail boats, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. There are designated areas for different types of vessels and a boat launch.
  • Swimming: Two designated swim beaches (Moreno Beach and Perris Beach) provide safe areas for swimming, often with lifeguards on duty during peak seasons.
  • Fishing: The lake is stocked with various fish species, including rainbow trout, catfish, and Alabama spotted bass, offering excellent shore, pier, and boat fishing opportunities.
  • Scuba Diving: A special area at the west end of Perris Beach is designated for scuba diving.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The popular 9-mile Lake Perris Loop Trail circles the entire lake, offering scenic views. Other trails ascend to Terri Peak, the highest point in the park.
• Rock Climbing at Big Rock: For climbing enthusiasts, the impressive "Big Rock" on the south end of the lake offers 34 established routes with varying difficulty levels on a 180-foot tall granite formation.
• Abundant Wildlife and Birdwatching: Despite being a semi-arid region, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including many bird species (waterfowl, raptors, songbirds), squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons. Birdwatching is a popular activity, especially around the lake.
• Regional Indian Museum: The park hosts a Regional Indian Museum, which is open on weekends and Wednesdays, offering educational insights into the area's native history and culture.
• Accessibility: The park is committed to accessibility, with numerous accessible campsites, restrooms, and trails, as well as amenities like beach wheelchairs.
• Family and Group Friendly: With diverse campsite types, numerous picnic areas (including large group areas), and a wide range of activities, Lake Perris is an excellent destination for family outings and larger group gatherings.
• Stargazing Events: The park occasionally hosts stargazing events during the summer, providing an opportunity to view planets, constellations, and stars away from city lights (nighttime pass may be required for non-campers).

For current information, reservations, and specific inquiries regarding Lake Perris Campground and the Lake Perris State Recreation Area, direct contact with the park management is recommended.

Address: Campground Rd, Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA. (For GPS, using "17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571" is often recommended for best navigation to the park entrance.)

Phone: (951) 940-5603. This is the main phone number for the Lake Perris Campground Office. For general park information and conditions, the main park phone number is (951) 940-5600.

Mobile Phone: +1 951-940-5603.

Reservations for campsites are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (April to October, and particularly summer weekends and holidays), and can be made up to six months in advance through the ReserveCalifornia website or by calling their toll-free number at (800) 444-7275. It is always advisable to check the official California State Parks website for Lake Perris State Recreation Area for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, fees, current fire restrictions, watercraft regulations, and any special events or closures.

For Californians, Lake Perris Campground offers a remarkably accessible and activity-packed outdoor destination, making it an ideal choice for both spontaneous day trips and planned camping adventures. Its location in Moreno Valley means it's just a short drive for millions across Southern California, providing a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel time. This accessibility makes it a perfect solution for busy families or individuals seeking a quick dose of nature and recreation.

The campground's diverse offerings, from RV hookup sites to tent-friendly loops and even dedicated horse camps, cater to a wide spectrum of local outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid boater, a keen angler, a dedicated hiker, or simply someone looking to relax by the water, Lake Perris provides ample opportunities. The wide array of activities available within the State Recreation Area – including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and rock climbing – ensures there’s always something to do, keeping everyone in the family engaged.

While it can be lively on weekends, reflecting its popularity as a party destination for some, visiting on weekdays or during the off-season often provides a more serene experience, allowing locals to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife in greater tranquility. With clean facilities, potable water, and the helpful presence of camp hosts and rangers, Lake Perris Campground truly delivers a comprehensive and enjoyable outdoor experience. It's a valuable local resource for Californians to connect with nature, engage in their favorite outdoor pursuits, and create lasting memories right in their vibrant home state.

Lake Perris Campground

Campground Rd, Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA