Lake Perris State Recreation Area

Tucked into the Bernasconi Hills of Riverside County, Lake Perris State Recreation Area spreads across 8,800 acres of sun-drenched Southern California terrain, centered around a striking 2,250-acre reservoir. The park draws visitors year-round with its reliable warm weather, but the real appeal is the sheer variety packed into one destination — this is a place where you can waterski at sunrise, hike a ridgeline by mid-morning, and cast a line for largemouth bass before lunch.

The lake itself is the centerpiece. A designated swim beach with lifeguards makes it one of the few inland swimming spots in the Inland Empire, while boaters, jet skiers, and kayakers share the open water. Anglers target Alabama spotted bass, channel catfish, and bluegill, with spring and fall producing the best catches.

Beyond the shoreline, over 10 miles of multi-use trails wind through rocky grasslands where ground squirrels dart between boulders and red-tailed hawks circle overhead. The Indian Museum at the park entrance offers a worthwhile look at the region’s Luiseno and Cahuilla heritage.

Camping options include developed sites with hookups and a more secluded horse camp for equestrian visitors. Weekend reservations fill quickly from May through September, so book early.

Visit in spring for wildflowers and comfortable hiking temps, or in summer if water recreation tops your list. With a 4.5-star rating across 670 reviews, Lake Perris consistently delivers for Southern California day-trippers and weekend campers alike.

Explore Nearby

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• San Gorgonio Wilderness — Public Land in California
• Sand to Snow National Monument — Public Land in California
• Cleveland National Forest — National Forest in California
• Parkers’ Lighthouse — Lighthouse in California