Deer Campground
4.27134 reviews17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571
Deer Campground
$10.00 - $45.00 / night
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 per night for hike and bike sites to $45 per night for RV sites with hookups. Additional fees include $10 for extra vehicles and $300 per night for group sites accommodating up to 100 people.
About this campground
Nestled within the expansive Lake Perris State Recreation Area, Deer Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its versatile camping options and endless recreational opportunities. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars, settling in with your RV, or gathering with a group for a memorable retreat, this well-appointed campground serves as your gateway to adventure. Thoughtfully designed accessible sites ensure everyone can enjoy the natural beauty, while shared amenities create a sense of community among fellow campers. Just moments from the shimmering waters of Lake Perris, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned for early morning fishing expeditions, scenic hiking trails, and afternoon boating excursions.
Deer Campground accommodates RV, tent, and group camping, offering amenities and services suitable for various camping styles.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum, a cultural treasure within Lake Perris State Recreation Area that honors the rich heritage of the region's first inhabitants. This remarkable institution preserves and shares the stories, traditions, and artistry of Native American peoples who called this land home for thousands of years. Through carefully curated exhibits and interpretive programs, visitors gain profound insights into the deep cultural roots that continue to shape the character of this special place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Southern California's climate at Deer Campground, where warm, sun-drenched summers invite endless outdoor activities with temperatures peaking at a toasty 94°F in August. As autumn arrives, the intense heat gives way to perfect camping weather, while mild winters maintain their charm with comfortable highs around 71°F—ideal for those seeking to escape colder climates. The landscape transforms during the rainy season from December through April, when intermittent showers breathe life into the surrounding vegetation, painting the hillsides in vibrant greens and setting the stage for spectacular wildflower displays.
ElevationPerched at 1,560 feet above sea level, Deer Campground offers a refreshing escape from the lower elevations of Southern California. This moderate altitude creates a unique microclimate where cooling breezes sweep across the landscape, providing natural relief during warm afternoons. The gentle elevation changes throughout the campground add visual interest and create diverse camping experiences, from sites with sweeping vistas to more sheltered spots nestled among the rolling terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Southern California's distinctive landscape, where aromatic sage scrub blankets the hillsides and rocky outcroppings punctuate rolling terrain. The campground serves as a living gallery of native plants, from the cheerful yellow blooms of brittlebush to the hardy chamise and delicate buckwheat that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting the diverse creatures that call this ecosystem home, creating countless opportunities for nature photography and quiet observation. Each season brings its own visual rewards, transforming the scenery with subtle shifts in color and texture.
Geological RegionDiscover the dramatic landscape of Southern California's Inland Empire at Lake Perris, where the majestic Bernasconi Hills and Russell Mountains frame your camping experience. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history through its distinctive rock formations and varied terrain. The characteristic sage scrub ecosystem thrives among weathered granite boulders and sun-baked slopes, while seasonal wildflowers paint brilliant splashes of color across the canvas of rocky soils. This unique convergence of geological features creates not just a backdrop for your camping adventure, but an immersive natural classroom where every trail reveals new wonders.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available with water and electricity hookups. Restrooms, showers, and parking are ADA accessible.
Sites SizeSites are large enough to accommodate RVs up to 31 feet in length and allow space for tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some reviews describe sites as too close together or lacking adequate spacing.
Total Campsites431 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent camping is recommended for those seeking quieter experiences. RV sites in Deer Loop offer better proximity to shared restrooms.
Best CampsitesAccessible campsites in Deer Loop include sites #217, #218, #219, and #220.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2 PM
Check-out
By 12 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay is 15 nights between June 1 and November 30
- 30 nights between December 1 and May 31.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group sites accommodate up to 100 people and 20 vehicles, equipped with restrooms and parking.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, including Deer Loop, Coyote Loop, and Quail Loop. RV and tent sites are interspersed.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season pricing applies during Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible. Late arrivals must pay for the site by 10:00 AM the next day. Popular sites may fill during weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or via phone with a $7.99 cancellation fee. Cancelations after 6:00 PM the day before arrival will incur one night’s unit fee and the reservation fee.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Deer Campground offers diverse activities, including fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can engage in these recreational opportunities year-round.
Hiking
Accessible hiking trails include the nine-mile equestrian, hiking, and bicycling path circling Lake Perris and a trail leading to Terri Peak. Trails feature scenic views and are moderately crowded.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Lake Perris is known for fishing, offering largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, carp, and trophy-sized bluegill.Swimming
Swimming areas are marked by buoys, and lifeguards are present during peak season. The beach is noted for being clean but crowded on weekends.Biking
Biking trails are available, providing opportunities for recreation around the lake.Boating
Boating is allowed, with multiple launch ramps for motorized and non-motorized vessels. Rentals include fishing boats, kayaks, and paddleboards.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observed includes jackrabbits, mountain lions, hawks, and coyotes. Coyotes were also noted in user reviews.Beach activities
Visitors enjoy sunbathing and water recreation at Moreno Beach and Perris Beach, although reviews mention litter and lack of cleanliness on busier days.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Regional Indian Museum showcases Native American history and culture. Reviews note its closure during some visits.Winter Activities
Winter camping allows quieter conditions, but activities like hiking and fishing remain viable.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular at Lake Perris.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes, coyotes, and poison oak. Visitors are advised to store food securely and avoid approaching wildlife.
Active alertsSeasonal closures may occur due to overcrowding during summer weekends.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 17.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
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
Moreno Valley Community Hospital (6 miles), Perris Police Station (8 miles), onsite Lake Perris ranger station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingDumpster locations are shared within the campground.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Lake Perris for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include noise violations during quiet hours, crowded conditions, and inconsistent cleanliness of restrooms.
HostOnsite campground hosts provide basic assistance and maintenance.
Campground Map
17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571
Driving directionsFrom the 60 Freeway East, exit Moreno Beach Drive, turn right, and continue to Via Del Lago. Turn left and follow Via Del Lago directly into the park. From I-215 South, exit Ramona Expressway, turn left, proceed to Lake Perris Drive (do not confuse this with Perris Boulevard), and turn left into the Perris Entrance. For those traveling north on I-215, exit Ramona Expressway, turn right, and then left onto Lake Perris Drive.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and major highways such as Highway 60 and I-215. Seasonal closures may occur when the lake reaches boat or parking capacity during summer weekends.Nearby places
Moreno Valley (6 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive), Riverside (11 miles, approximately 25 minutes drive), San Bernardino (20 miles, approximately 40 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Marina Store at Lake Perris for camping essentials such as ice, firewood, bait, and snacks. Larger grocery stores are located in nearby Moreno Valley or Perris.
Camper Reviews
4.3
134 reviews
Deer Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Deer Campground are mixed, highlighting the scenic location and clean amenities but expressing dissatisfaction with noise, crowding, and cleanliness during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 134 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the spacious campsites, accessible facilities, clean restrooms, and free showers. Activities like fishing, hiking, and boating receive praise.
Based on 134 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include loud music, overcrowding, poor enforcement of quiet hours, dirty restrooms during busy times, and trash both in campsites and the lake.
Based on 134 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs for noise mitigation, extra toilet paper, and shade canopies. Avoid peak summer weekends for a quieter experience.
Based on 134 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter camping is quieter, while summer weekends are crowded and noisy. Spring and fall provide moderate temperatures and reduced crowds.
Based on 134 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Campgrounds are great, restrooms are close and clean.' (Marlon Barrios, July 31, 2023) 2. 'Boating, paddle boarding, swimming and fishing are allowed at the lake to keep us busy during our stay.'...
Based on 134 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #358 in Bobcat Loop described as relatively calm. Users note better spacing in sites numbered 300-353.
Based on 134 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features are praised, but users report issues with cell phone service during emergencies.
Based on 134 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must remain leashed. Coyotes are noted in the area, requiring vigilance.
Based on 134 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025