"A sparkling jewel and a land of mystery..."
Hidden among rock-studded hills, Lake Perris State Recreation Area’s 8,800 acres of broad valley are bounded on three sides by low ridges. The Bernasconi Hills and the Russell, Apuma and Armada Mountains obscure the view of nearby cities. Inland, the San Bernardino, San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, snow-capped in winter months, stand tall in the distance. This area, with its varied terrain and habitats, is rich in a variety of wildlife.
Activities
Hiking, Biking Trails
A nine-mile hiking, and bicycling trail circle the lake.
- Terri Peak Loop Trail: 4.4-mile loop, 958 feet elevation gain, moderate-difficulty rating featuring beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and birding and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
- Bernasconi Hills Trail to Teri's Peak: 4.2-mile loop, 1023 feet elevation gain, moderate-difficulty rating. features wild flowers and beautiful views. The hike offers incredible views of the San Gabriels and Bernardinos. From the top you get clear shots of Jacinto, Gorgonio, and Baldy. Watching the sunset from this spot is exhilarating. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
- Additional Hikes: Click here.
Deluxe Pontoon boat ride: Reserve your spot when registering. We will cruise the lake and make stops on Alessandro Island with shaded picnic tables with grills nearby and a trail that leads to the island's high point. We plan to reserve for Saturday. Pay after we get it reserved and know how many are going.
Bicycling: Bring your bike. We will ride the trail around the lake.
Kayaking/boat rentals : Single kayaks are $10, doubles are $12 for 1 hr.
Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum: Native American history of the area and displays of the flora and fauna of the southern California bio-region, and early Spanish explorers.
Volunteer Opportunity: We a looking for volunteers and you may indicate during registration process if you would like to help in the following areas:
- Food and beverage
- Bike leader
- Hike leader
- Boat Coordinator
- Entertainment
- Raffle
Thank you!
Registration options include: Tents and RV’s. Tents will be in tent only sites. RV sites are located adjacent to the tent only sites, separated by a grassy area. We will have group campfire located in central spot. A few tents may be placed on RV site in and area away from the RV. Sites will be preassigned with site assignments 1 week prior to event.
Extra Vehicle Fees: If your are asked to pay extra vehicle fee upon entry, pay and save receipt and see trip leader for reimbursement.
Registration is available to Great Outdoors members only. If not a member, you may join and purchase a membership - Click Here For Membership - which will then allow you to register. Signing up: After you select your registration type, scroll down and add additional information such as RV size, tow vehicle, carpooling, etc.
Payments: Online payments using credit cards will be accepted.
Amenities for Tent and RV Campers: Every site has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. There are shade trees, however extra shade canopies may be nice. Water and restrooms with free hot showers are nearby.
Amenities for RVs: The RV sites have fresh water, electrical and gray water hook-ups. A dump station is located at the campground entrance. Every site has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
RVs must be parked in provided space and may not protrude into roadway. Maximum length 31 feet ; however RVs up to 40' may be backed in with tail overhanging campsite.
Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. Generator hours from 6 am to 10 pm
Pets Policy – Pets must be leashed (6’ or less), caged, or in a tent, motor home, or vehicle at all times. They must not be left unattended. Pets are allowed on watercraft, but may not have any body contact with the water at any time. Pets are NOT allowed on Alessandro Island or on beaches. Ensure that pets have access to a water source. Pets should be restricted to approved trails and developed areas due to potentially harm to desert plants and cactus.
What to Bring:
- Ten Essentials, camping/cooking gear, food, name tag.
- Camp chair, warm/cool weather clothing, ear plugs, bicycle.
- Potluck item and an appetizer for ‘tea’ along with your favorite beverage.
- Swim suit, towel, water shoes for swimming, boating or kayaking.
- Cash for pontoon boat ride and the raffle.
- A bundle or 2 of non-oak firewood. Firewood Notice: Due to the threat of the goldspotted oak borer, no oak firewood will be allowed. Firewood my be purchased on site.
- Consider bringing an item(s) to donate for the raffle. Funds will be used for all chapter Outdoor Experience training and support.
Also consider going green! - Please bring your own plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils, napkins, paper towels, camp soap, etc.
Campfires are permitted only in the fire ring and concrete grills provided. We will have a group camp fire.
Schedule of Events:
*Check white board at camp for updates and details
Friday May 15
- 2:00 pm Check-in at the gate. Advise you are with Great Outdoors.
- 3:00 pm Bike ride around the lake
- 6:00 pm Meet and greet ‘tea’. Bring a beverage and appetizer to share. Get your raffle tickets.
- Dinner on your own.
Saturday May 16
- 6:30 am Coffee and continental breakfast
- 9:00 am Hike and/or exploration* (Check whiteboard for updates)
- 9:00 am Pontoon Boat across lake* or boat/kayak on your own
- 1:00 pm Ya'i Heki' Museum visit*
- 6:30 pm Potluck and Group campfire activities
- 7:45 pm Super Raffle
Sunday, May 17
- 6:30 am Coffee and continental breakfast
- 12:00 pm Check out
Directions: The recreation area is located 11 miles south of Riverside via Highway 60 or I-215. Google map:
Climate: Average for May: 80° / 52
Cancellation/Refund Policy: Cancellations for a tent site must be received by April 30 to receive a refund. No refunds for RV sites unless there is a waitlist.
Payments: Online payments using credit cards will be accepted.
Contact Trip Leader Scott Connelly
: Email Click Here
| Emergency |
911 |
| Non-Emergency |
951-776-1099 800-950-2444 |
| Perris Station |
951-210-1000 |
- Hospitals. Riverside County Regional Medical Center/Moreno Valley
- Campground Office: 951-940-56
- Lake Perris Matina Store 951-657-2179
Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.
