Frequently asked Lake Hemet questions

Helpful Camping Tips

• Remember to bring warm clothing for chilly winter nights/mornings.
• Waterproof tent gear during rain or snow months.
• Hiking shoes, hat, water bottle.
• Always pack a First Aid Kit (including sunscreen).
• Remember to bring insect repellent and or Bug Spray, Citronella Candles.
• Please bring sunscreen, hats, skins and or rash guards for sun protection.
• Shade is limited, so please bring a canopy, umbrella, etc.
• Cell service and Internet access is sparse. Please plan accordingly.

Please be respectful of your neighbors. This includes keeping your campsite free of clutter and trash. Be courteous of loud noises and smells. Please use designated trash cans for garbage and disposable trash. Quiet time is a a prompt 10:00pm to 8:00am.

General Inquiries

• Where is the nearest town?
  The closest town is Idyllwild, and it is approx 8 miles from Lake Hemet. Anza is approx 18 miles from the Campground. Hemet is approx. 24 miles. Palm Desert is 31 miles. Temecula is 36 miles.
• Is there a grocery store nearby?
  The Lake Hemet Market is just outside the campground and there are also local markets in Idyllwild. Chain grocery stores and shopping malls are located in Palm Desert, Temecula, and nearby Hemet.
• Where is the nearest gas station?
  The closest gas station is Idyllwild approx 9 miles from Lake Hemet. Anza also has two gas stations on Hwy 371; Circle K and Mobil. Please remember when traveling to Lake Hemet to fill your gas tank before leaving a major metropolitan area, as most of the local gas stations in the mountain areas are closed by 9:00pm.
• Can campers have visitors at their campsite?
  Yes, but they will have to pay the Day Use Fee upon entering the Campground. Should your visitors find themselves relaxing in the peaceful environment that surrounds Lake Hemet, enjoying the clean mountain air and bright starlit sky, and decide to stay past the Day Use check out time (sunset), they will have to pay the difference for overnight camping.