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Lake Perris, the southernmost reservoir in the California State Water Project, was completed in 1973 and sprawls across 2,250 acres in Riverside County. Set against a backdrop of granite hills and desert chaparral, the lake sits within the Lake Perris State Recreation Area—a busy hub for SoCal residents seeking sun and splash. Boating, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and swimming are peak summer activities, while anglers reel in catfish, trout, and largemouth bass. Two sandy swim beaches offer family-friendly access, and the nearby Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum honors local Native American heritage. Horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers explore surrounding trails like Terri Peak Trail, with panoramic views. During summer weekends, expect crowds and lively beachside picnics. For a quieter experience, visit midweek or in spring when wildflowers bloom along the shoreline.
- Surface area (mi)
- 5095.24
- Max depth (ft)
- 98.43
- Elevation (ft)
- 1289.37
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 10
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Marinas on Lake Perris
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Perris has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, the designated swimming areas at Lake Perris are located at Moreno Beach and Perris Beach on the northwest side of the lake. These areas have changing rooms, showers, and restrooms, but lifeguards are not always on duty.
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Lake Perris is a popular recreational destination because it offers a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, picnicking, horse-back riding, and swimming. The park also has hiking trails, camping sites, and hosts events like the Big Rock Triathlon, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Fishing is prohibited in designated swim areas, launch ramps, courtesy docks, and from boats moored to courtesy docks at Lake Perris. These areas are off-limits to ensure safety and separate recreational activities. Anglers must adhere to these restrictions to avoid any penalties.
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Yes, there are lifeguards on the beaches at Lake Perris. California State Parks hires seasonal lifeguards who undergo paid training in public safety, first aid, and aquatic rescue procedures to ensure beach safety. Tryouts for these positions are held at locations including Lake Perris.
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Towns near Lake Perris include Perris, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Lake Elsinore, and Menifee. These towns are all located within a few miles of the lake in Riverside County, California. They offer various amenities and services to residents and visitors.
