Owl Campground

For California residents looking for an accessible and activity-rich outdoor escape, Owl Campground, nestled within the popular Lake Perris State Recreation Area in Moreno Valley, offers a compelling option. As locals, we often seek out places that provide a quick getaway without sacrificing the true essence of nature and recreation. Owl Campground, with its scenic views of Lake Perris and convenient location, serves as a popular hub for various outdoor pursuits, from boating and fishing to hiking and simply enjoying the scenic Southern California landscape. It's a place that balances the ease of access with the opportunities for diverse outdoor experiences, making it a frequent choice for families, RV enthusiasts, and tent campers alike.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area is a man-made lake, completed in 1973, that has become a recreational haven situated in a mountain-rimmed valley between Moreno Valley and Perris. This area is renowned for its wide array of water-based activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, sailing, and even scuba diving in designated areas. Beyond the water, the surrounding parklands offer extensive opportunities for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities, with trails that wind around the lake and ascend to scenic viewpoints. Owl Campground is one of several loops within the larger Lake Perris campground system, each offering a slightly different experience but all benefiting from the overarching recreational offerings of the State Recreation Area. Its appeal lies in its ability to cater to different camping styles while providing beautiful lakeside views and a host of activities right at your doorstep.

Owl Campground is specifically located within the Lake Perris State Recreation Area in Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA, at the address "Owl, Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA." This places it strategically for easy access from major population centers across Southern California. The Lake Perris State Recreation Area is easily accessible from the I-215 freeway. If you're coming from the north, you can take the Moreno Beach Drive exit and head south. From the south, the Ramona Expressway exit will lead you east towards the park. For optimal navigation, inputting "Lake Perris State Recreation Area" or "17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571" into your GPS device is recommended, as Owl Campground is one of the loops within this larger park.

The roads within the Lake Perris State Recreation Area and leading to Owl Campground are paved and generally well-maintained, ensuring relatively smooth access for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers. This ease of access is a significant benefit for campers, reducing travel stress and allowing more time to enjoy the destination. The campground itself is "well laid out," indicating thoughtful planning for visitor convenience. However, it is worth noting that while the roads are good, specific campsite layouts might present considerations for larger vehicles, as some sites are described as "a little close for comfort," resembling "2.5-wide parking spots" where a 5th-wheel trailer and pick-up truck might fit without "no margin in between your spot and your neighbor’s." This implies that while accessible, campers with larger rigs should be mindful of site dimensions for comfortable maneuvering and setup. Overall, the accessibility of Owl Campground makes it a prime choice for a hassle-free camping trip for California residents.

Services Offered:

• RV and Tent Camping Sites: Owl Campground, as part of the Lake Perris State Recreation Area Campground, offers both RV and tent camping options. While specific numbers for Owl Loop vary, the overall Lake Perris campground has 431 sites, including 264 paved RV sites (up to 41 feet) and 167 non-hookup tent sites.
• Electrical and Water Hookups (for RV sites): Full hookup sites are available, featuring both 30A and 20A electrical hookups and water connections. This provides essential conveniences for RV campers.
• Gray Water Drains at Sites: RV sites include drains specifically for gray water, allowing for convenient disposal of sink and shower water at the campsite.
• Designated RV Dump Station: While black tanks cannot be drained at individual sites, a designated dump station is available within the campground for black water disposal. This requires campers to "hook up the trailer and drive over to the dump station and then re-park and set everything back up at your site" if staying for more than a few days.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground is equipped with flush toilets and hot showers, providing essential comfort facilities for campers. Accessible restroom/shower buildings are also available in various loops.
• Campfire Rings and BBQ Grills: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table, BBQ grill, and campfire ring, enhancing the traditional camping experience.
• On-Site Camp Store (Seasonal): A temporary (in-season) camp store is available, selling snacks, drinks, firewood, ice, camping gear, bait, and tackle, offering convenience for last-minute needs.

Features / Highlights:

• Stunning Lake Views: A major highlight of Owl Campground is the "really nice" views of Lake Perris. Many campsites offer picturesque scenery, creating a tranquil and visually appealing backdrop for your outdoor activities and relaxation.
• Scenic and Well-Laid Out Campground: The campground is described as "very scenic and well laid out," indicating a thoughtful design that maximizes enjoyment of the natural surroundings. This contributes to a pleasant camping atmosphere.
• Access to Lake Perris Activities: Being part of the Lake Perris State Recreation Area, campers have immediate access to a wide range of water-based activities. These include swimming at designated beaches (Moreno Beach and Perris Beach), fishing for species like rainbow trout, catfish, and bass, and various boating options like sailing, water skiing, and even scuba diving.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The area boasts numerous hiking trails, including a nearly 10-mile loop trail that circles the lake, offering diverse views and opportunities for exploration. This makes it an ideal spot for avid hikers and casual strollers alike.
• Proximity to Moreno Valley Amenities: Despite its natural setting, Owl Campground is conveniently located near Moreno Valley, providing easy access to city amenities such as shopping, dining, and other recreational facilities. This balance of nature and convenience is a significant advantage.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With activities like a decent beach, hiking trails, and general outdoor recreation, Owl Campground and Lake Perris State Recreation Area are well-suited for family outings and creating lasting memories.

Contact Information:

Address: Owl, Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA

Phone: (951) 940-5600

Mobile Phone: +1 951-940-5600

For camping reservations at Lake Perris State Recreation Area, it is generally recommended to use the ReserveCalifornia website or call their customer service number at (800) 444-PARK (7275).

For Californians seeking a well-rounded and easily accessible camping experience, Owl Campground at Lake Perris State Recreation Area offers a compelling choice. While some reviews mention that campsites can be "a little close for comfort" and the need to drive to a dump station for black water disposal, these points are often outweighed by the significant advantages this location provides. The "really nice" views of Lake Perris and the overall "very scenic and well laid out" nature of the campground create an appealing atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts.

What makes Owl Campground particularly suitable for locals is its prime location in Moreno Valley, ensuring a relatively short drive from many Southern California urban centers. This means less time on the road and more time enjoying the vast recreational opportunities available at Lake Perris. Whether you're looking to spend a day fishing, kayaking, hiking the scenic trails, or simply relaxing by the water, everything is conveniently within reach. The presence of essential services like electrical and water hookups, coupled with restrooms and showers, makes it a comfortable option for RVers and tent campers. Despite minor drawbacks like occasional litter or pricing, the sheer array of activities and the beautiful natural setting make Owl Campground a highly desirable spot for California residents to reconnect with nature and enjoy quality time outdoors without venturing too far from home. It's a reliable option for your next local adventure, offering a blend of convenience and classic California outdoor fun.

Owl Campground

Owl, Moreno Valley, CA 92555, USA