Lake Perris State Recreation Area Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)

Overview • What Campers Are Saying • Campsites & Amenities • Booking & Availability • Best Sites • Nearby Campgrounds • Map & Directions • FAQ

Overview

Lake Perris State Recreation Area lies in a scenic reservoir basin near Perris and Moreno Valley and offers a large drive-in campground ideal for tents, trailers, and RVs. With over 400 sites—including both non-hookup and paved hookup loops—you’ll find a versatile mix of camping styles within California State Parks. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

TL;DR: Big, accessible lakeside camping near Southern California urban centers — versatile sites, water-sports access, and easy reservations.

What Campers Are Saying

Overall vibe: “Fun but busy.” Campers appreciate the large site count, paved RV loops, and lakeside recreation, though some report louder nights on holiday weekends. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Highlights

• Lots of space: 431 campsites including 167 non-hookup and 264 paved hookup sites. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Water access: Boating, fishing, swimming, paddle-sports available in the lake basin. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• RV-friendly: Paved loops, hookups / partial hookups for many rigs. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Close to cities: Near Inland Empire; convenient for Southern California campers. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Frictions to plan around

• Hot summers: Temperatures rise significantly; shade is limited. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Loud weekends: Parties and noise can be an issue in prime loops. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• No full sewer hookups: Though water & electric are available, black-water (sewer) is not at individual sites. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Large size: With over 400 sites, there can be heavy traffic and less solitude than smaller parks.

Camper Quotes

“Lots of space and paved RV loops — our trailer fit great.”

“Love the lake access, but bring your earplugs if you’re staying in the busy loop.”

“Shade is limited — plan extra canopy for summer stays.”

“Easy to reserve and convenient for SoCal weekend escapes.”

Campsites & Amenities

• Sites: 431 total; 167 non-hookup (tent/trailer) and 264 paved hookup loops. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Hookups: Water & electric hookups available at paved sites; sewer not at every site, dump station available. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Facilities: Picnic tables, fire rings, grills, hot showers, flush toilets, camp store, dump station. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Activities: Boating launches, fishing piers, hiking/biking paths, equestrian trails. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Pets: Allowed in campground and paved areas; check specific rules for lake shore. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Booking & Availability

Reservations: Via ReserveCalifornia.com. Sites are specific — you reserve an exact site number. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Tip: For best availability and quieter stays, consider midweek visits or off-peak season between December and February. Summer weekends fill fast. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Best Sites

• Sites 89-136: example of Coyote Loop paved sites with hookups, easy RV access. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Sites 1-44: Quail Loop—tent friendly, non-hookup, good tree cover in certain spots. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Back loops: Select sites near lake shoreline or quieter ends of loops — ideal for sound-sensitive campers.

Bring a shade canopy and plan for strong afternoon sun; consider lake-side or elevated loops for better views and breeze.

Nearby Campgrounds

• Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area: Nearby in the mountains, cooler elevation, smaller size.
• Lake Skinner Recreation Area: Another large lake camping option in Riverside County.
• Green Valley Campground (inside Cuyamaca Rancho): Forested alternative if you’re willing to drive inland.

Map & Directions

From the I-215 or I-15 corridors near Riverside/Corona, follow signs to Lake Perris State Recreation Area. The address is 17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92570. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

Address: 17801 Lake Perris Dr, Perris, CA 92570

Lake Perris FAQ

Are there full hookups?

No — while water & electric hookups are available at many sites, black-water sewer hookups are not available at individual sites. A dump station is on-site. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

Are pets allowed?

Yes — pets are allowed in the campground and paved areas; check local rules if taking them on lake trails. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

Can I bring a boat or fish?

Yes — boating, fishing (bass, catfish, bluegill), and paddle sports are all available at the lake. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

When is the best time to visit?

Fall-through-winter (October-March) offer milder weather and fewer crowds; summer is warm and can be crowded on weekends. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

Is the lake crowded during holidays?

Yes — especially in summer weekends; check for boat/launch crowds and campsite noise. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?

Rumor says he’s rowing a kayak at dawn on the reservoir—keep an eye out. 👣🚣