The great outdoors has always been of great interest to the general public. Every year, millions of people explore the mountains and valleys of campsites, one of the most popular destinations being Lake Perris. Lake Perris camping has been popular among campers since it opened in 1973.
Lake Perris Camping was conceived pretty soon after the artificial lake was completed. Over the decades, Lake Perris has attracted millions, not only from the state of California but even around the world.
This article discusses the avenues to explore at Lake Perris camping and everything it has to offer.
1. Lake Accessibility and Sustainability
Lake Perris camping is popular for a plethora of reasons, one of the main reasons being the ease of accessibility. Visitors with cars can enter the lake via the Moreno Valley and Perris entrances.
Lake Perris camping also keeps in mind that a lot of people will resort to bicycling and hiking. That’s why these people don’t have to pay any day-use fees and can access the lake from most trails.
Then there’s also Alessandro Island. It’s a day-use-only island replete with picnic tables, barbeque grills, and restrooms.
The California State Water Project has done a commendable job of sustaining it.
Lake Perris’ water levels go down in September to manage the water resources in the local regions. The withdrawn water is then mixed with other State Water Projects to maintain a respectable quality of drinking water.
2. The Campgrounds for Lake Perris Camping
Lake Perris continues to serve a multitude of needs for various people. This is evident by the number of campsite styles they possess to cater to many types of people. Campsites like tents, RVs, and group campsites are plenty.
All of the sites mentioned come with a picnic table, barbeque grill, and a fire ring.
2.1 Tents
The usual, standard tent shouldn’t be news to anyone. It can accommodate two families and even fit 2 to 3 mid-sized vehicles.
2.2 RV
RV camping is fun with the inclusion of tents, and a singular vehicle, and is capable of housing 8 people. These sites are also paved and come with water and electrical supplies already hooked up.
2.3 Group Camps
Group campsites are massive and can hold up to 100 people and also provide people with the privilege and luxury of shade ramadas, kitchen areas with counters, and a sink.
2.4 Horse Camps
That’s right, Lake Perris Camping understands that a wide range of people like to visit the State Park and that includes people with horses too. These campsites have watering troughs, corrals, drinking water, and restrooms specifically for horses.
It can house up to 2 horses per site.
Not only this, but Lake Perris Camping also has group picnic areas with shade ramadas, picnic tables, bathrooms, and barbeque grills. These group picnic areas can even hold up to 200 people.
3. Boating
Lake Perris is one of the most impressive regions in the State of California and the rest of the country. This lets people have a lot of boating fun. This is even furthered by the inclusion of speedboats, jet skis, and pontoons. Although a reservation is needed to avail of most boating services, sailboats, kayaks, canoes, and any other non-powered vessel doesn’t need a reservation.
The Lake Perris Marina is also an excellent option for boating enthusiasts. It offers two boat ramps with 4 lanes on each and even offers boat rentals, boat storage, fishing licenses, and baits.
4. Fishing
The sheer vastness and aquatic diversity of Lake Perris camping provide excellent game in the lake for visitors to catch. Lake Perris is most famous for its trophy largemouth bass, but as we mentioned earlier, aquatic diversity is what makes this a fishing hub. This is why there are so many fishing tournaments held throughout the year.
There are also ample food resources in the lake thanks to the presence of shrimp, crayfish, and catfish in the lakes. A fishing license is needed to access this. The Lake Perris Marina offers a fishing license, you can also get it from the local Walmart, or even a bait shop.
5. Hiking
Lake Perris Camping is arguably best known for its exquisite hiking trails. While some trails in the park are only for hiking, most trails are for multi-use and can be used for horse riding and biking too.
6. Exquisite Hiking Trails
As mentioned, numerous times before, Lake Perris camping boasts some of the best hiking trails in the country. There’s no shortage of hiking trails here and we just had to talk about some of our favorites –
6.1 Lake Perris Loop Trail
This 14.6km loop trail is situated near Moreno Valley, California, and is a challenging route for some. It takes an average of 3 hours to complete and is famous for bike rides, bird watching, and even running. It’s certainly a suitable spot for some much-needed solitude. It’s also accessible throughout the year and dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re leashed.
6.2 Bernasconi Hills Trail
Bernasconi Hill trail is immensely popular and a lot of that is attributed to the fact that it’s a horse-friendly trail. Even dogs can be off the leash in certain areas. It’s a pleasant trail throughout the year and takes about 2 and a half hours to conclude. It’s also a great spot to bird watch due to the abundance of unique and exotic species of birds found here. Keep in mind that this also has a route type of loop and has an elevation of over 327m. This is certainly not an easy trail to go through.
6.3 Terri Peak and Lake Perris Trail
The shortest length in this sub-list of hike trails is also one of the most challenging. The route type is out & back and this may prove to be challenging for many, especially when you consider the steepness of this trail. This trail is sure to give people a considerable amount of adrenaline. It should also be noted that dogs aren’t permitted to wander this trail. However, this trail is sure to provide some much-needed quiet time for many people despite the physicality needed to complete this trail.
7. Rock Climbing
Another famous spot at Lake Perris camping has to be Big Rock. A favorite among rock climbers and adrenaline junkies, this climbing hotspot is 180 feet high and has over 30 routes. It should be known that visitors must bring their climbing gear and must climb at their own risk.
8. Children’s Activities
Lake Perris Camping prides itself on including children in engaging activities throughout the year, especially in the summer. Some of the most popular ones are the Tommy Thomas Kids Fishing Derby, the Aquatic Adventure Camp, and Jr. Lifeguards. December in Lake Perris camping is also well known for the Lights on the Lake Boat Parade. It’s a money-raising activity for charity.
9. The Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum
The name of this historic museum translates to Home of the Wind. It’s one of the many museums funded by the state of California. Not only is this museum historically significant, but it’s also in the midst of small-scale renovations to make the experience even more immersive. For instance, the park is in the process of boasting about new exhibits. The Lake Perris Regional Indian Museum is one of the most important Indian Museums in the country’s storied history.
Over the years, many school trips, volunteers, and engaging “Q&A” about the museum have only made this place even more historically and culturally significant. However, make sure to keep in mind that the museum is open on Saturdays & Sundays between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and on Fridays from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
10. Guided Tours
Those who need a helping hand to explore the wonders of Lake Perris don’t need to worry anymore. Lake Perris Camping offers extensive guided tours with skilled experts at the helm of the operation. People get to learn about every detail of the State Park, including learning about the exciting flora and fauna of Lake Perris.
It’s important to book a reservation beforehand, as guided tours are in demand, especially in the summer and spring. Guided tours also help give visitors an in-depth look at the many activities and programs at Lake Perris camping like the Lights on the Lake Boat Parade.
Lake Perris camping continues to attract many eyes upon it and this is only bound to increase. This is because Lake Perris has continually improved in key areas and shows no signs of stopping. It remains to be seen what the future holds for Lake Perris camping, but it’s safe to say it’s in good hands. A lot of renovations are already being carried out right now. The future is certainly exciting.
