Lake Perris Campground

Biking

There isn’t a whole lot of variety for cyclists here, but the one trail this park has is definitely worth the cruise. The Lake Perris Loop (scroll to the map) takes riders 9 miles around the perimeter of the lake, providing lovely views of riparian areas and the surrounding foothills. It is an easy jaunt as it is almost entirely paved. Trailheads are accessible from most of the parking lots, but the best place to hop on the trail is the Power Cover lot. There is one portable restroom halfway along the east end of the trail.

Boating

Boating is kind of THE thing to do here at Lake Perris State Recreation Area, and cruising those beautiful blue lake waters is, we think, a pretty phenomenal way to spend a weekend (or week, or month, or year). Whatever your time frame, you will find a wide variety of resources to get out on the lake, as there is a marina (that offers rentals, if you didn’t BYOB) and multiple launch spots near the campgrounds. Waterskiers and wakeboarders, rejoice: part of the lake is designated for speed, meaning that you can get up and do your thing under the beautiful SoCal sunshine in the sparkling waters of Lake Perris. Massive disclaimer: You absolutely MUST make sure your boat is free of Quagga and Zebra mussels before you can go in the lake. There is an inspection point, and rangers recommend letting your boat dry out completely (and DO NOT let it get wet again) for 5 days before heading to the park. Due to potential seismic activity, the water level in the dam has also been lowered, meaning that the number of boats is limited. To make sure you can get out on the water, call and make a reservation at (800) 444-7275.

Fishing

If boating is the primary activity on Lake Perris, then fishing comes in at a close second. There is excellent shore and boat fishing to be had in these waters, which are stocked with trout every two weeks by the Department of Fish and Game (you can click here for an exact schedule). The lake is also known for some pretty awesome bass fishing, and green sunfish, crayfish and shrimp (who arrived via aqueduct, which is pretty cool) also inhabit these waters. Be sure to have your fishing license , which are also available for purchase at the Lake Perris Marina (although single-day passes sell out quickly).

Hiking

An easy hike is a great way to enjoy the lovely views this park has to offer, and, thankfully, there are several opportunities to do just that. The self-explanatory Lake Perris Loop provides an easy, paved walk around the lake. Itching for a vista? Take the 3.5 mile Terri Peak Trail, which will lead you to the top of the striking land formation that provides the drama to the lake’s landscape. On a smog-free, spring day, enjoy looking out over a valley lush with wildflowers, including goldfields, California poppy, fiddleneck, baby blue eyes and blue dicks.

Horseback riding

You are more than welcome to enjoy this park via horseback, as there is a designated horse camp as well as an equestrian trail that circles the lake and leads through the undeveloped portion of the park. If you think that experiencing the beauty of this area via four-legged friend sounds great, but don’t happen to own one, fear not: you can rent one over at Lake Perris Stables (951-801-8120).

Paddling

With its beautiful waters, striking views and lovely setting in the foothills, Lake Perris is a wonderful place to launch a kayak or canoe. Nine miles of shoreline provide ample opportunities for exploration, and while you will be sharing the water with boaters, there is a section of the lake that is 5 mph only. Keep your eyes peeled for the many waterfowl that call the lake home and, if you are so inclined, grab a rod and see what you can catch! Check out the fishing section for more details.

Wind sports

With its wide expanse of sparkling blue waters, warm So Cal location and beautiful surrounding scenery, Lake Perris is a great spot for windsurfing. Bring your board and, who knows? You may be lucky enough to harness that famous Santa Ana and have the ride of your life.

Climbing

This park is actually home to the extremely popular Big Rock, a climbing spot that is about 180 feet high and offers some great opportunities for beginning and experienced climbers. There are 34 recognized routes ranging in difficulty from 4th class to a 5.10d, and one A3 route. Most routes are single pitch, or suitable for top rope, but there are a few that are multi-pitch and will take you to the upper level of the rock and some more challenging routes. Pay attention to the rules, mind your own skill level, and get to climbin’!

Swimming

Who can look at those refreshing lake waters and NOT want to jump in? There are two designated swimming areas, one at Moreno Beach (which can be accessed through lots 8, 9, and 10) and Perris Beach (accessed through lots 1-4). Lifeguards are on duty daily throughout the summer, and on weekends in the spring and fall. If you are so inclined, there are scuba diving opportunities at the west end of Perris Beach, and there are changing rooms, showers, and restrooms located behind towers 2 and 4.

Wildlife watching

The sage scrub and chaparral found along the lakeshore are home for mule deer, bobcats coyotes, raccoons, California quail, gopher snakes and rattlesnakes. The park is also home to 100+ species of birds, including roadrunners (meep meep!), loggerhead shrikes, lark, California thrashers, ospreys, bald eagles and several types of hawks and wrens. Several species of waterfowl also live on the lake, which draws avocets, willets, kingfishers, killdeer, black-necked stilts, egrets and heron.