Roadrunner Campground
3.9251 reviews17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571
Roadrunner Campground
$10.00 - $300.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$300.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $10 to $300 per night, depending on site type and group size. Additional vehicles cost $10 ($20 during peak season).
About this campground
Nestled in Southern California's scenic wilderness, Roadrunner Campground at Lake Perris State Recreation Area welcomes adventurers with an impressive array of camping experiences. Whether you're pulling in with a fully-equipped RV, setting up a traditional tent under the stars, arriving on horseback, or planning a memorable group gathering, this well-appointed campground has the perfect spot waiting for you. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with the natural environment, featuring clean restrooms, refreshing hot showers, and shaded picnic areas where families create lasting memories around communal meals.
Roadrunner Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV hookups, group sites, and primitive horse camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with thousands of years of human history, where the ancient Cahuilla and Luiseño peoples once made their homes among these hills and valleys. Their legacy lives on in the remarkable rock art and pictographs that dot the park's rocky outcroppings—silent testimonies to the deep spiritual connection these first inhabitants shared with this land. Each petroglyph tells a story, inviting modern visitors to pause and reflect on the countless generations who have found sustenance and sanctuary in this special place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Southern California's legendary climate at Roadrunner Campground, where sunshine reigns supreme nearly year-round. Summer brings the warmth that lake lovers crave, with August temperatures climbing to a toasty 94°F—perfect for early morning hikes and afternoon swims. Winter transforms into an outdoor paradise with comfortable 71°F days that invite exploration without the crowds. With only 10 inches of annual rainfall, you can count on clear skies and star-filled nights for most of your camping adventure.
ElevationPerched at 1,560 feet above sea level, Roadrunner Campground occupies a sweet spot in Southern California's diverse topography. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate where warm, dry air mingles with gentle breezes, offering relief from both coastal fog and desert extremes. The elevated position enhances those spectacular sunsets and provides just enough altitude to make summer evenings refreshingly comfortable for campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic vistas that capture the essence of Southern California's rugged beauty. The campground sits amid a tapestry of native sage scrub and chaparral, their aromatic presence filling the air with the authentic scent of the California wilderness. To the horizon, the Bernasconi Hills roll like ancient sentinels, while the Russell Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventures. At the heart of it all, Lake Perris sparkles like a sapphire jewel, its 2,000-acre surface reflecting the ever-changing moods of the sky.
Geological RegionRoadrunner Campground rests in a fascinating geological theater, where millions of years of Earth's forces have sculpted a broad valley cradled by distinctive mountain ranges. The surrounding Bernasconi Hills and the Russell, Apuma, and Armada Mountains tell an ancient story written in stone, their weathered peaks and gentle slopes creating a natural amphitheater. This unique topography supports a thriving ecosystem of sage scrub and chaparral communities, where hardy plants have adapted to thrive in the Mediterranean-like climate, creating a living laboratory of California's botanical diversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA accessible campsites and restrooms are available, with parking and accessible shower stalls. Beach wheelchairs are provided for free upon inquiry.
Sites SizeStandard campsites measure a pad length of 31 feet accommodating tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacySites offer limited privacy with reviews stating, 'No privacy between sites,' and 'Sites are on top of each other.'
Total Campsites431 campsites
Recommended CampsitesQuail Loop offers tent sites near restrooms. Deer Loop provides RV sites with hookups close to water and electricity.
Best CampsitesAccessible campsites include Quail Loop (tent sites #2, #4, #5, #6) and RV sites in Deer Loop (#217-261).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 15 days from June 1 to November 30, and 30 days from December 1 to May 31.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per standard campsite.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate up to 100 people per site with parking for 20 vehicles. However, users note limited shade: 'The group campgrounds need more trees for shade.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops (Quail, Coyote, Deer, Owl, Bobcat), with sites offering various levels of accessibility and shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season occurs between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by phone at (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited during peak seasons. Campers arriving without a reservation may select from unoccupied sites and must register by 10 AM the following day.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made by 6 PM on the day before arrival to avoid a charge of one night's fee. Reservation fees are non-refundable ($7.99).
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Roadrunner Campground within Lake Perris SRA supports a variety of activities, including swimming at designated beaches, boating with rentals available, hiking around the lake, fishing for species like largemouth bass and catfish, and wildlife viewing. Cultural enrichment is available at the Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum.
HikingThe park features a nine-mile equestrian, hiking, and bicycling trail circling the lake, along with trails ascending Terri Peak. 'The path was nicely clean and well kept up,' noted one user.
FishingLake Perris is known for largemouth bass fishing. Other species include catfish, carp, and bluegill. 'Had a great time fishing here. Got myself a fish-on catfish,' mentioned one user.
SwimmingSwimming beaches include Moreno and Perris Beach, staffed with lifeguards during peak times. User reviews note, 'The swim beach was nice and well observed.'
BikingThe park provides a paved bike trail around the lake. One user stated, 'Approx 9-10 miles round trip. The path was nicely clean and well kept up.'
BoatingBoating is popular, with rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing boats available at the marina. 'Water activities with our waverunners on the lake were fun,' one reviewer stated.
Wildlife viewingThe park is home to various species, including birds like red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures. 'Birdwatchers may see roadrunners, loggerhead shrikes,' and other migratory birds.
Beach activitiesRoadrunner Campground provides access to two swim beaches with shaded picnic areas and restrooms. User reviews highlight the clear water and clean beaches, though some note the exposure to sun and wind.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum offers exhibits showcasing Native American culture and history. Entry to the museum is free.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in provided fire rings only. Open ground fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors should be cautious of rattlesnakes and poison oak. Mountain lions are present but rare.
Active alertsWaterfowl hunting occurs every other Sunday from October through January, restricting access to the lake's east side during early morning hours.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: Moreno Valley Community Hospital (~10 miles). Police station: Perris Police Department (~5 miles). Ranger station: Contact at (951) 940-5600.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are shared, with dumpsters located on-site. However, user reviews mention some litter: 'The shoreline has a bit of trash,' and 'There needs to be more receptacles on busy weekends.'
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Lake Perris. Alessandro Island is accessible by boat.
Common complaintsNoise from generators and loud music during quiet hours. Trash left in campsites.
HostCampground hosts are available on-site but may have limited enforcement capabilities for noise complaints.
Campground Map
17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571
Driving directionsThe recreation area is located off of Ramona Expressway, accessible from the I-215. From the north, take the Moreno Beach Drive exit and head south. From the south, take the Ramona Expressway exit and head east.
The roads leading to Lake Perris are paved and accessible year-round. There are no seasonal closures, but parking lots can fill up quickly during peak seasons, leading to temporary closures.Nearby places
Riverside (11 miles, ~20 minutes), Moreno Valley (~10 miles, ~15 minutes), San Bernardino (~30 miles, ~40 minutes), Los Angeles (~65 miles, ~1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be purchased at Moreno Valley (~10 miles) or Perris (~5 miles). Firewood, ice, and other essentials are available at the Lake Perris Marina Store.
Camper Reviews
3.9
51 reviews
Roadrunner Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Roadrunner Campground has mixed reviews. Positive mentions include clean bathrooms and organized check-in processes. Complaints revolve around lack of privacy, noise issues from neighboring campers, and occasional cleanliness concerns at campsites.
Review Summaries
Clean restrooms, hot water availability, organized check-in process, swimming beaches with lifeguards, and boating activities.
Noise levels during quiet hours, litter at campsites and beaches, lack of privacy between sites, issues with shower pressure, and crowded conditions during peak times.
Bring shade canopies due to limited shade at campsites. Arrive early during peak summer to secure parking. Pack stakes and weights for tents due to windy conditions.
Summer sees high visitor crowds, with long delays and lack of parking noted. Winter months provide quieter and less crowded camping experiences.
'Truly an amazing place to visit and camp.' 'Bathrooms were clean for showers.' 'Quiet time starts at 10pm but they were partying and blasting their music till 4am.' 'Sites are large as well.' 'Lake...
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Quail Loop #32 had complaints about shower pressure and trash. Bobcat Loop mentioned well-maintained bathrooms.
Accessible campsites and amenities appreciated, though some users noted issues like malfunctioning showers.
Pets are allowed on leash but prohibited from beaches and water. User reviews suggest avoiding bringing dogs without RV accommodations.
Last updated July 31, 2025