Lake Perris Recreation Center

The 8,200-acre Lake Perris State Recreation Area is just 15 minutes away from Downtown Perris. Spanning approximately three miles in length and two miles across, it’s a well-known destination for visitors to enjoy a peaceful day relaxing on the shore or a thrilling speedboat adventure.

Visitors can also rent pontoons, jet skis, sailboats, kayaks and canoes. The lake even offers designated areas to fish and watch wildlife.

There are miles of pristine hiking to explore at Lake Perris Recreation Area — and hikers and bicyclists who enter the park without a car don’t need to pay day-use fees. The lake’s multi-use trail system accommodates both biking and horseback riding (Lake Perris does not rent horses, but visitors can bring their own). True adventurers can embark on a rock-climbing excursion (but must bring their own climbing gear) on the 180 feet tall “Big Rock,” which is located on the south end of the lake and features 34 recognized climbing routes.

Boaters can check out Alessandro Island in the middle of the lake, which is a day-use recreation area reachable only by water. The island offers numerous shaded picnic tables and grills to enjoy a secluded outdoor gathering with friends and family.

There are also plenty of day-use group picnic areas on shore, complete with a kitchen area, sink, and barbeque grill. Those who want to stay a bit longer can book an overnight campsite. The recreation center offers tent and RV camping, as well as horse campsites.

The California State Parks system offers the following guidelines for those considering a trip to a California State Park or open space:

• Stay Local: Stay close to home. Do not travel if you are sick or if someone in your household has had COVID-19 in the last two weeks.
• Plan Ahead: Prior to leaving home, check the webpage of the your local outdoor destination to find out if it is open, if parking is available, if there are camping opportunities and what new visitor guidelines are in effect.
• Stay Safer at 6 Feet: No matter the recreational activity, maintain a physical distance of 6 feet or more. Group gatherings and parties are not allowed. Visitors are being asked to leave if there are too many people to allow for the required physical distance.
• Stay Covered: The state requires you to wear a face covering when you cannot maintain physical distancing of six feet or more. For details, please visit covid19.ca.gov.
• Stay Clean: Be prepared. Bring soap/sanitizer and pack out all trash. Restrooms will be temporarily closed in order to keep up with cleaning schedules.