Horse Campground
02 reviews17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA, 92571
Horse Campground
$10.00 - $300.00 / 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 vary based on type: $35 per night for standard non-hookup, $45 per night for RV with hookups, and $25 per night for horse camp sites. Additional fees include $10 for extra vehicles and $300 per night for group campsites.
About this campground
Saddle up for an authentic Western adventure at Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern equestrian camping. This specialized primitive campground at Lake Perris State Recreation Area welcomes riders and their four-legged companions to a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of traditional family camping. With dedicated horse corrals, convenient water troughs, and essential facilities, you'll find everything needed for a memorable backcountry experience. Here, under star-filled skies, the simple pleasures of rustic camping blend seamlessly with the timeless bond between horse and rider.
The Horse Campground is a primitive site designed for equestrian camping. Other accommodations at Lake Perris State Recreation Area include standard campsites, RV sites, group camps, and hike-or-bike sites.
Historical SignificanceCamp where ancient cultures once thrived, surrounded by the whispers of history etched in stone. The surrounding landscape reveals fascinating Native American pictographs and petroglyphs, silent testimonies to the Cahuilla and Luiseño peoples who once gathered here for trade and ceremony. As you explore these sacred grounds with your horse, you're following paths worn by countless generations, connecting with a rich cultural tapestry that spans thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the quintessential Southern California climate where golden summers stretch long and warm, with August temperatures climbing to a toasty 94°F—perfect for early morning rides and lazy afternoon siestas in the shade. When winter arrives, it brings gentle relief with comfortable 46°F nights ideal for campfire gatherings and cozy sleeping bags. The region's modest 10 inches of annual rainfall graces the landscape primarily between December and April, transforming the hills into a verdant paradise that horses and riders alike will treasure.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 1,560 feet above sea level, the campground offers the perfect sweet spot for both horses and humans. This moderate elevation provides cooler temperatures than the valley floor without the breathing challenges of high mountain camping, ensuring everyone in your party—two-legged and four-legged alike—can relax and enjoy the adventure without altitude concerns.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the rugged beauty of coastal sage scrub habitat, where aromatic white sage and cheerful brittlebush paint the landscape in muted greens and brilliant yellows. This living canvas provides endless fascination as red-tailed hawks soar overhead and curious California ground squirrels dart between the native vegetation. Every sunrise reveals new wonders in this diverse ecosystem that perfectly frames your equestrian camping experience.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Perris Valley, your camping adventure unfolds against a backdrop of the majestic Bernasconi Hills and Russell Mountains. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through varied terrain that transitions from gentle valleys to rugged chaparral-covered slopes. The diverse topography creates a natural playground for trail riding, where each turn reveals new vistas and every ridge promises panoramic rewards.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Horse Campground includes accessible features such as parking areas and an equestrian mounting platform. "Horse Camp: Located off Alta Calle Road, past the Lake Perris Campground, the horse camp has generally accessible campsites, parking, and an accessible equestrian mounting platform."
Sites SizeThe pad length for parking RVs or trailers is 35 feet, and the site length is 31 feet.
Sites PrivacySites provide partial shade and are primitive in nature but do not emphasize privacy.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with partial shade for relief during summer months. Sites near the water spigots offer convenience for watering horses.
Best CampsitesEquestrian Primitive Campsite #HC 1 and #HC 2 are highly favored for their accessibility and proximity to water troughs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 15 days between June 1 and November 30, and 30 days between December 1 and May 31.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each standard campsite accommodates up to 8 people.
Groups
Group camping is available in other parts of Lake Perris Recreation Area but not specified for the Horse Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe Horse Campground is laid out with seven primitive sites, each equipped with horse stalls and hitching posts.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is minimal during peak season due to high demand. Visitors are advised to check the availability board upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $7.99 fee. If canceled after 6:00 PM the day before arrival, the first night's fee is forfeited along with the $7.99 fee. Refunds take up to 30 days.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is tailored for equestrian activities, with facilities such as horse corrals and hitching posts. Beyond the Horse Campground, Lake Perris State Recreation Area offers hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and water-based activities like fishing and boating.
Hiking
Lake Perris features a nine-mile loop trail around the lake suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Another trail ascends to the top of Terri Peak, offering scenic views.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 available at Lake Perris, which is known for largemouth bass. Other fish include catfish, crappie, carp, and bluegill. Anglers must possess a California State Fishing License.Swimming
Designated swimming areas are available at Moreno Beach and Perris Beach. These areas are marked with buoys and lifeguards are present during peak season.Biking
Biking is permitted on the nine-mile loop trail around the lake. The trail is multi-use, accommodating hikers and equestrian riders as well.Boating
Lake Perris accommodates more than 200 vessels, including kayaks, paddleboards, and motorized boats. Specific guidelines apply for boating safety and inspections.Wildlife viewing
Lake Perris is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, mule deer, and reptiles such as gopher snakes and rattlesnakes. Birdwatching is particularly popular.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking at Moreno Beach and Perris Beach.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum at Lake Perris offers exhibits on Native American history, culture, and traditions. Limited hours apply.Winter Activities
Winter activities at Lake Perris include hiking and wildlife observation. The park is less crowded during the off-season, offering a quieter experience.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are popular at Lake Perris.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings and grills. Open ground fires are not permitted.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with rattlesnakes and poison oak.
Active alertsNo active alerts were specified.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services available at Moreno Valley Community Hospital approximately 3 miles away. Police and ranger stations are located within the park for immediate assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is centralized at shared dumpsters. Recycling is not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to shared water spigots and watering barrels for horses.
Common complaintsSome visitors have noted limited shade and the primitive nature of the facilities. The chemical toilets are functional but basic.
HostNo information provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA, 92571
Driving directionsFrom Highway 60 east, exit Moreno Beach Drive. Go right to Via Del Lago and make a left, which will lead you directly to the park entrance. From I-215 south, exit Ramona Expressway and go left to Lake Perris Drive, then take another left to the entrance.
Accessible via paved roads from Highway 60 and I-215. No seasonal closures were mentioned. Roads are suitable for all vehicle types.Nearby places
Riverside (11 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Moreno Valley (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Perris (0 miles, within city limits).
Nearby supplies
Lake Perris Marina Store near the campground offers essentials including firewood, food, bait, and other camping supplies. Additional stores can be found in Moreno Valley and Perris, within a 3-11 mile range.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Horse Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the primitive nature of the Horse Campground and its suitability for equestrian camping. The lack of showers and basic amenities requires preparation. "This is a primitive site designed for those who are camping with horses."
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include horse-friendly facilities such as corrals and hitching posts, fire rings with grills, and proximity to Lake Perris' recreational activities.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints often mention the lack of showers, flush toilets, and hookups for electricity or water.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing additional shade structures and ensuring horses are well-prepared for shared watering facilities. "Campers who visit during the off-season will be treated to an uncrowded...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter months are preferred for quieter camping and cooler weather. Summer can be crowded and hot, requiring extra preparation.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes include: "This is a primitive site designed for those who are camping with horses." "Campers who visit during the off-season will be treated to an uncrowded park in beautiful weather."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews for individual sites emphasize the ease of access for RVs and trailers and the suitability of facilities for horses.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
The accessible equestrian mounting platform and parking features are praised by users with mobility challenges.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is noted for its pet-friendly policies, allowing both domestic animals and horses. "Pets are allowed on watercraft, but may not have any body contact with the water at any time."
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025