Lake Perris State Recreation Area

For dining options near Lake Perris, several restaurants offer a variety of cuisines. Steer 'n Stein is a humble steakhouse known for its large beers and hearty fare. Harry's Cafe serves classic American dishes in a casual setting, offering all-day fare. Casa Jimenez is a popular Mexican restaurant with a cozy atmosphere. Sizzler is famous for its steaks and salad bar, providing a family-friendly dining experience. Lastly, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse offers a blend of pub fare and house-brewed beers.

Visitors to Lake Perris can choose from several nearby hotels. Ayres Hotel & Spa Moreno Valley offers refined suites and a spa. Fairfield Inn & Suites Riverside Moreno Valley provides a relaxed atmosphere with a pool and gym. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moreno Valley offers modern accommodations with free breakfast. Hampton Inn & Suites Moreno Valley features an outdoor pool and hot tub.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area provides a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes nearly 300 picnic sites, many of which are shaded and equipped with tables and grills. Restrooms and showers are available, particularly at Perris Beach, where scuba diving is also permitted. The area offers camping facilities, including tent, RV, and horse campsites, with amenities like barbecue grills and public restrooms. Additionally, the park features a multipurpose pavilion suitable for events like weddings and parties.

The park offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Boating is available from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer, and fishing is popular due to the lake's diverse fish species. Swimming is allowed in designated areas like Moreno Beach and Perris Beach. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular, with a nine-mile trail circling the lake. Rock climbing is another attraction, with the notable Big Rock offering challenging routes. Birdwatching is a favorite pastime, given the area's rich avifauna.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area offers various accessible facilities. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and picnic areas are available throughout the park. Beach wheelchairs are also provided to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the lake's beaches. The park's trails and facilities are designed to be accessible, allowing everyone to participate in the recreational activities offered.

Parking at Lake Perris State Recreation Area is accessible and convenient. There is a fee for vehicle entry, but no charge for those entering on foot or bicycle. The park's paved road allows easy access to different areas around the lake. Parking lots are available near the beaches and camping sites, ensuring that visitors can park their vehicles safely and conveniently.

Lake Perris is known for its artificial reef made from old tires, which provides a habitat for fish. The lake is part of the California State Water Project and is a significant spot for birdwatching, with over a hundred species documented. The area's unique geology and diverse wildlife make it a fascinating place for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the lake's proximity to major cities like Los Angeles and Riverside makes it a popular weekend getaway.

One of the main attractions at Lake Perris is Alessandro Island, accessible only by boat, offering secluded picnic areas. The Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum provides insight into the region's cultural and historical significance. The park also hosts the annual Big Rock Triathlon, attracting athletes from across the region. Nearby, the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail offers additional opportunities for exploration.