Coyote Campground
3.9251 reviews17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571
Coyote Campground
$10.00 - $45.00
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
Standard campsites are $35/night, RV sites with hookups are $45/night, Hike/Bike sites are $10/night, and Group sites are $300/night. Additional vehicles cost $10-$20/night depending on season.
About this campground
Nestled at the base of rugged hills along the sparkling shores of Lake Perris, Coyote Campground offers adventurers the perfect basecamp for Southern California exploration. This beloved destination within Lake Perris State Recreation Area welcomes both RV enthusiasts and tent campers to experience days filled with boating adventures, scenic hiking trails, and memorable fishing expeditions. Families return year after year to create lasting memories under star-filled skies, where the gentle lapping of lake waters provides the perfect soundtrack to campfire stories.
Coyote Campground caters to both RV and tent camping, with additional options for group camping.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of the Cahuilla and Luiseño peoples who called these lands home for thousands of years. Their rich legacy lives on through the nearby Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum, where fascinating exhibits reveal ancient traditions, intricate basketry, and the deep connection between indigenous communities and this sacred landscape. Every trail and vista point tells a story of resilience and harmony with nature.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Southern California's Mediterranean climate, where golden summer days reach a toasty 94°F in August—perfect for cooling off in the lake's refreshing waters. As autumn paints the surrounding hills in warm hues, temperatures become ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration. Winter brings a pleasant respite with comfortable 71°F afternoons and crisp 46°F mornings that invite cozy campfires and hot coffee at sunrise.
ElevationPerched at 1,560 feet above sea level, this sweet spot elevation creates an enviable microclimate that camping enthusiasts cherish. While summer brings the warmth that makes lake activities irresistible, the elevation ensures evenings cool down just enough for comfortable sleeping. Winter transforms the campground into a mild-weather paradise, where daytime adventures never require heavy jackets and nights are perfectly crisp for gathering around the fire pit.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views where the dramatic Bernasconi Hills and majestic Russell Mountains frame your camping experience like a natural amphitheater. The landscape bursts with life as aromatic sage scrub and dense chaparral create a tapestry of greens and browns, punctuated by brilliant wildflower displays each spring. Keep your camera ready for encounters with local wildlife—from roadrunners darting between campsites to hawks soaring overhead and deer grazing in the early morning mist.
Geological RegionSet within a stunning broad valley cradled by ancient geological wonders, the campground sits at nature's crossroads where the Bernasconi Hills, Russell Mountains, Apuma, and Armada Mountains converge. This unique geography creates diverse ecosystems where sage scrub and chaparral communities thrive, supporting an impressive array of flora and fauna. Spring transforms these rugged slopes into a botanical wonderland, while the distinctive rock formations tell a million-year story of tectonic forces and erosion that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, featuring water and electricity hook-ups. Nearby parking, restroom, and shower facilities are also accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites range from standard to larger sizes, accommodating up to 8 people and 3 vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites are generally open and lack privacy, with some users mentioning a clustered layout.
Total Campsites431 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in Coyote Loop for proximity to restrooms and accessibility. Bring shade structures for summer.
Best CampsitesAccessible sites in Coyote Loop (#110, #111, #112) for RVs with hookups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2 PM.
Check-out
By 12 PM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum 15 days during June 1 - Nov 30
- 30 days during Dec 1 - May 31.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight guests per site for regular campsites.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate up to 100 people and 20 vehicles, featuring picnic tables and nearby restrooms.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites grouped in loops, including tent and RV sites. Sites are close together with limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, peak season is Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at ReserveCalifornia.com or via phone at (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability. Sites are first-come-first-served after noon the second day of reservation no-show. Arrive early during busy weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $7.99 fee if made before 6 PM the day before arrival. Cancellations after 6 PM result in forfeiture of one night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can engage in a wide variety of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing. The campground also supports activities like wildlife watching and picnicking.
HikingThe park features a nine-mile equestrian, hiking, and bicycling trail around the lake, along with a separate trail ascending Terri Peak.
FishingFishing is popular, with species like largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie available. Anglers must have a valid California fishing license.
SwimmingTwo designated swim beaches are available at Moreno Beach and Perris Beach, equipped with lifeguards during peak season.
BikingThe park offers a loop trail around the lake suitable for bicycling. The trail is paved and well-maintained.
BoatingBoating is a major attraction, with facilities for both powered and non-powered vessels. Alessandro Island offers picnic tables and restrooms for boaters.
Wildlife viewingWildlife species include mule deer, bobcats, raccoons, and various migratory birds. Early mornings and dusk are ideal for viewing.
Beach activitiesActivities like sunbathing and picnicking are popular on the clean beaches. Space is first-come, first-serve.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum offers exhibits on Native American culture and history.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings only. Open ground fires prohibited.
- Quiet hours are From 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak present in various locations. Wildlife includes rattlesnakes, coyotes, and mountain lions. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms possible in lake.
Active alertsNone currently active. Follow social media for updates.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 4
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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 6 miles away), local police station and fire services accessible via 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling dumpsters are available in shared locations near campsites.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Perris with swim beaches and boating access.
Common complaintsNoise violation during quiet hours, lack of enforcement. Trash found in campsites and lake. Limited shade at sites.
HostHosts available onsite, offering assistance and information.
Campground Map
17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571
Driving directionsFrom Highway 60 east, exit Moreno Beach Dr. Turn right onto Moreno Beach Dr., then left onto Via Del Lago, which leads directly to Moreno Valley Entrance of Lake Perris SRA. From I-215 south, exit Ramona Expressway, turn left onto Ramona Expressway, then left onto Lake Perris Drive, leading to Perris Entrance.
The park is accessible via paved roads and major highways (Highway 60 and I-215). Roads are well-maintained and suitable for RVs and trailers. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
Riverside (11 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Moreno Valley (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Perris (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Marina Store onsite provides camping essentials, snacks, and recreational gear. Additional supplies are available in Perris or Moreno Valley (both within 10 miles).
Camper Reviews
3.9
51 reviews
Coyote Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's family-friendly atmosphere, clean restrooms, and wide range of activities. However, issues such as noise and trash are occasionally reported.
Review Summaries
"Bathrooms were clean and water was clear." "Staff were friendly and helpful." "Great camping experience for families and groups."
"Sites were noisy, with loud music continuing past quiet hours." "Trash and maintenance issues were noted in some areas." "Some campsites lacked basic cleanliness, including burnt bottles and glass...
Show more
Bring easy-ups for shade and stakes for tents due to wind. Arrive early for better parking and beach spots during peak season. Check campsite for trash upon arrival.
Peak summer season sees higher crowds and noise levels. Winter months offer a quieter experience.
"Great place for swimming, camping, and family outings—it has it all." "Bathrooms were decent, considering we're camping." "The swim beach was nice but had a lot of trash in the water." "Showers...
Show more
Quail Loop Site 32: Reports of trash and burnt materials in the fire ring. Bobcat Camp Area: Women's shower noted as needing repairs.
Accessible campsites praised for nearby parking and restroom facilities, but some users mentioned areas needing more maintenance.
Dogs are allowed but prohibited on beaches and in water. Reviewers recommend RV camping for pet owners.
Last updated July 31, 2025