Group Picnic Campground
3.9251 reviews17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571
Group Picnic Campground
$10.00 - $305.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$305.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $10 for hike-and-bike sites to $305 for premium group picnic areas accommodating up to 200 people. Day-use vehicle fees are $10-$20 depending on season and day.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Southern California, Lake Perris State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with an impressive array of camping experiences. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars, rolling in with your RV for full hook-up convenience, organizing a memorable group gathering, or embarking on a scenic hike-and-bike adventure, this versatile campground delivers. The crown jewel is the shimmering artificial lake that serves as your backyard playground, offering endless opportunities for water sports, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.
The Group Picnic Campground is exclusively designed for day-use group activities. It is not suitable for overnight camping.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of ancient peoples who called this land home for thousands of years. The area's rich Native American heritage comes alive through mysterious rock art etched into stone and artifacts that tell stories of daily life long ago. The fascinating Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum serves as a window into this profound cultural legacy, offering visitors a chance to connect with the indigenous history that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Southern California's Mediterranean climate, where sun-drenched summers invite you to dive into refreshing lake waters when temperatures soar to a toasty 94°F in August. As autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, the weather mellows into perfect camping conditions. Winter brings a gentle reprieve with comfortable 71°F afternoons and crisp 46°F mornings that call for cozy campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at a refreshing 1,560 feet above sea level when the reservoir reaches full capacity, the campground offers a perfect escape from coastal fog while maintaining comfortable temperatures year-round. This ideal elevation creates stunning vistas and provides just enough altitude to enhance those spectacular Southern California sunsets.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of coastal sage scrub and chaparral that paints the landscape in subtle greens and earthy browns. Spring transforms the terrain into a wildflower wonderland as brittlebush, chamise, and buckwheat burst into bloom. Keep your camera ready for encounters with majestic mule deer grazing at dawn, elusive coyotes trotting along ridgelines, and over 100 species of birds that make this ecosystem their home. The man-made reservoir sparkles like a sapphire against the backdrop of the rugged Bernasconi Hills, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn.
Geological RegionDiscover a unique slice of Southern California's Inland Empire where rolling hills meet sparkling waters. This captivating landscape showcases classic coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems thriving around a stunning man-made reservoir. The surrounding low mountains, including the distinctive Bernasconi Hills, create a natural amphitheater that frames unforgettable sunrises and sunsets while providing shelter from coastal winds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking, routes to picnic tables, and restrooms are available. Shaded accessible picnic sites are scattered throughout the park.
Sites SizeSites are designed to accommodate large groups, with capacities ranging from 50 to 200 people and space for multiple vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites are generally open with partial shade and minimal privacy. User reviews mention crowded conditions and proximity between sites.
Total Campsites431 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade, bring additional canopies as natural shade is limited. Sites in Quail Loop offer accessibility features.
Best CampsitesAccessible campsites in Quail Loop (sites #2, #4, #5, #6) and Coyote Loop (#110, #111, #112) are noted for their proximity to restrooms and level ground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM.
Check-out
By 12:00 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 for family sites
- group sites accommodate up to 100.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampgrounds include multiple loops (Quail, Coyote, Deer, Owl, Bobcat) with varying amenities including roads, paths, and restroom locations.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but off-season (December 1 - February 28) offers uncrowded conditions and cooler weather.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability depends on the site. If arriving late, available sites can be chosen from the listed board and paid for by 10 AM the next morning.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $7.99 fee. Late cancellations additionally forfeit one night's fee. Modifications cost $7.99 per reservation.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The Group Picnic Campground at Lake Perris SRA offers a variety of outdoor activities designed to cater to groups and families. Visitors can enjoy the scenic picnic areas and easy access to the lake for recreational water activities.
Hiking
Lake Perris features a nine-mile loop trail around the lake offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. While no specific trails are highlighted for the Group Picnic Campground, nearby trails are accessible for group visitors.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
Fishing is permitted at Lake Perris, which is known for its excellent largemouth bass and other fish species. A valid California fishing license is required.Swimming
Designated swim beaches are available at Moreno Beach and Perris Beach. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, but swimming is at your own risk during other times.Biking
Lake Perris offers paved trails suitable for biking, including a nine-mile loop around the lake.Boating
Boating activities are highly popular at Lake Perris, with designated launch ramps for motorized and non-motorized vessels. Recreational boating is permitted, but watercraft must pass inspection for invasive species.Wildlife viewing
Lake Perris is home to over 100 bird species and various native wildlife. The park's diverse habitats make it ideal for wildlife observation.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and picnicking along designated swim areas. Outdoor showers and shaded picnic spots are available nearby.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can explore the Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum, which offers cultural exhibits and information about Native American history in the area.Winter Activities
Minimal winter activities are explicitly mentioned for the Group Picnic Campground.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing are popular at Lake Perris. Rental services for watercraft are available at the marina.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Open ground fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include venomous snakes like the Red-Diamond Rattlesnake and occasional strong winds during summer.
Active alertsSeasonal waterfowl hunting closures on the east side of the lake every other Sunday from October to January.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 (approximately 10 miles). Emergency assistance can also be obtained from the park's ranger staff.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingShared dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Lake Perris, offering swimming beaches and access to boating and fishing.
Common complaintsNoise at night due to loud music and lack of enforcement of quiet hours, trash in campsites and lake areas.
HostCampground hosts are available but limited enforcement of quiet hours has been noted.
Campground Map
17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571
Driving directionsFrom the 60 freeway east, exit Moreno Beach Dr. Go right to Via Del Lago and make a left. Via Del Lago will come straight into the park at the Moreno Valley Entrance. From the 215 south, exit Ramona Expressway and go left to Lake Perris Drive, make another left. This brings you straight to the Perris Entrance.
Both major highways (60 and I-215) provide paved, accessible roads. The final approach includes well-marked roads with clear signage to the park entrances. Ramona Expressway and Via Del Lago are main access points.Nearby places
Riverside (11 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Moreno Valley (approximately 15 minutes), Perris (adjacent to the park).
Nearby supplies
Rec-Out Marina Store within Lake Perris SRA (offers snacks, camping gear, firewood, and fishing supplies). Grocery stores in Moreno Valley and Perris are approximately 10-15 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
3.9
51 reviews
Group Picnic Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Perris Group Picnic Campground are mixed. Positive highlights include clean bathrooms, friendly staff, and family-friendly environment. Negative feedback mentions crowded conditions, lack of enforcement of park rules, and trash issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 51 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms and showers, friendly staff, ample shaded areas, and great facilities for family outings. Users appreciated the lake's beauty and accessibility for water activities.
Based on 51 reviewsCommon Concerns
Trash in campsites, lack of privacy, noise levels from nearby groups, and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. Some reviews mentioned issues with campsite cleanliness and maintenance.
Based on 51 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring easy-ups or shade tents as shade is partial, arrive early to secure parking, bring stakes and weights for tents due to wind, and pack personal trash bags to help maintain site cleanliness.
Based on 51 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are busy and crowded, with parking lots filling early. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Winter months offer a quieter experience.
Based on 51 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were clean for showers 🚿 👌 as well and security as well." - Amber Ramirez
"Had a great time fishing here. 🎣 Camped here for 2 nights." - Insight Living
"I camped here and do not...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites are spacious but lack privacy. One user mentioned Quail Loop 32 as disappointing due to trash and noise. Group campsites are recommended for family gatherings but need more shade.
Based on 51 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible parking and restrooms were appreciated by users. Mentioned amenities for individuals with disabilities were satisfactory.
Based on 51 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash. Dogs are prohibited from beaches and water areas. Some users found pet-related restrictions inconvenient.
Based on 51 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025