We went from the 10th of May to the 12th we just went out there to just relax and get away. So we got there and got everything unpacked. And found out that the bottom of the refrigerator did not get very cold so I was actually worried about all of our food going bad so we called the front and let them know that the refrigerator was not working. The freezer worked fine so they sent somebody down to check it out. And he brought us a small refrigerator that he put on a table outside. So we could put some of our food in it so we did that, but notice that the refrigerator did not work very well. Either. But anyways, we just kind of dealt with it.. Then the maintenance guy came back and told us that they are giving us a free 2 hours on a pontoon boat for the inconvenience. I truly highly recommend this place, they truly make sure that you are comfortable. And they do try their best.I give these guys five stars.. A few things in their trailer should actually be updated. But we made things work. We will all definitely be going back there.Hopefully, they can get that trailer updated on the mattresses. The refrigerator. And just overall, the cleanliness of the trailer actually was not up to my standards, maybe they could do better, but other than that, it was awesome, very relaxing, enjoyed the nature and most definitely enjoyed the pontoon. Thank you again so much , and we definitely will be returning read more

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I just completed My second year of fishing and camping here with my grandson. I love this place simply because of the staff. its camping, so things sometimes dont go as planned but the staff are always extremely helpful! Ed is the person who stands out for me. That guy goes out of his way to do what ever he can to make my visit enjoy for me and my grand-dude. The residents of the lake are also very helpful, welcoming to guest. There was a 8 yr old kid name Tauren who with his father's ok, walked up and down the shore to assist visitors in catching fish by offering his extensive knowledge of the lake and fish habits. Im already scheduling another trip. The water was low for the 2nd year in a row but I cant blame the lake for that! My one complaint is really trivial but the pillows and beds in the cottage were too hard and very difficult to sleep on. Also, the cottage I was in had two uncovered windows in the kitchen and the neighbors can look directly into the cottage at any hour. read more

The view is amazing, and the camp store pretty much has everything you would need during your camping experience. The "no bueno" parts.......... Premium spots are not what we expected compared to our 10 years of experience traveling all over California and Arizona, specially for the price. That sports are regular dirt like the rest, and our spot was not leveled, with a 6 inch difference left to right. Although the sites are long, you can't back in all the way, or your standard sewage hose won't reach the drain (it's located in the middle). Speaking of the drain, the drain pipe stuck out of the ground about 6-8 inches, which empedes the free flow of sewage. Anyway, the sports are long but, very narrow. Literally about 10-12 feet between our trailer door and our neighbors' slide out. What annoyed me, and still bugging me today....... we paid the "premium" site price, which is priced above most campgrounds. But wait, you pay that price but, it doesn't guarantee your spot!!! You have to pay an additional $10 feet to guarantee the site you want! But wait, there is more!!!! After paying for the premium site, and the $10 for the guarantee, they still put us on another spot!!! The lake water level is really low so, there was no lake behind our "premium" spot. We checked-in on Friday, and checked-out on Sunday. The 37 mph winds were so strong, and blowing the dirt everywhere, that we didn't have the opportunity to set up our patio, or roll out our awning. Our chairs were being blown over, I used 8 stakes to hold the carpet, and I even had to put my firewood on top of it to help keep it down. I know they can't control the winds but, as far as premium sites go, it had full hookups, and that's about it. We might return, when there is no wind, and the water level is much higher. Like I said, the view is amazing! read more

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This was a new spot for us to try out. It is my 7th time camping this year. We found it returning from a camping spot in Idyllwild in September. Reservations are easy. The staff is helpful and friendly. The lake is very large, non contact, but you can rent boats and things to go out on the lake. There are ducks and other birds on the water. There are individual camp sites, group camp sites, RV camp sites. Quiet hours are 10 pm - 8 am. People were respectful and quiet after 10 pm, some of the birds not so much. There are basketball courts, volleyball courts, a walking path, and other things to do. You are nestled in the mountains providing a scenic backdrop. Check out my photos. Check your gear and the weather and be prepared for cold temperatures. Good spot to try for camping if you have not already. read more

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I've been up to Lake Hemet numerous times for tent camping with the same group of families and friends back in the early 2000's and went countless times for the free shoreline fishing from my late teens years to up when I had kids of my own. This last weekend I booked the Woodlands #24 mobile home for two nights, wow! It had more than everything I needed, plus all the staff were amazing! From back when I first booked and needed to change dates (multiple times) the staff were not only able to do it but seemed delighted to. Thank you Lake Hemet staff read more

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My Family and i have been coming to Lake Hemet for about 9 years and everytime we come we experience something new and exciting, its clean safe staff is friendly always welcoming we will definitely be back and i always recommend Lake Hemet read more

Got home yesterday after another GREAT weekend at lake Hemet ! Pretty sure this is now my favorite lake and can't wait to go back in the summer time. Had a great time and all staff were once again super cool and pleasant to interact with. Was super excited to see my favorite bird swoop down and pick a trout from the lake surface and fly back to its nest. read more

Lake Hemet - Caught this 3.1 pounder lighting trout on an orange mice tail !! - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

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Lake Hemet in a man made lake in the San Jacinto Mountains close by Idyllwild...Very quiet camp ground/tent site. The lake itself is gorgeous and not crowded in time of our arrival...it was lil bit cold...You cant swim un the water but you can go for fishing. The road to get there was so beautiful. There was a family that came for a picnic but we were there for a short stop and enjoying the beautiful nature....So relaxing! read more

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Edd made our lake day easy and stress-free. The boat was clean and well-maintained, and he explained everything clearly before we headed out. We didn't catch any fish, but we made great family memories -- and that's what counts. Would absolutely book with him again. Thank you Edd read more

Lake Hemet - Fun - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

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The views are stunning. We tent camped two night in the middle of January. We typically desert camp, so this was a change. Woke up in 27* weather with everything frozen although the weather app showed low of 49*... so prepare for unexpected temps during your stay! I captured the most amazing photos of it all. We even drove down the road a bit to the Ramona Trail - beautiful hike! Will return again - but maybe this time in the spring when it's warmer ;) There is NO cell service - you can get WiFi at their market at the entrance ONLY. read more

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I'm generally a tent camper, but I'm getting older and I thought I'd splurge on a cabin. It was so nice. Clean and well maintained, dedicated bathroom and shower, and with a nice view of the lake. All the host staff were friendly and helpful. I spent my time enjoying myself, with far less set up and tear down. Definitely relaxing. Ted H. read more

Lake Hemet - My best friend at Lake Hemet - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

It's was beautiful and very quiet. I did think our spot would have been all campers but we were in the middle of the full time residents which was fine. We rented a boat and it was so nice the staff were all very helpful and always smiling. The Market has the best ice cream and rootbeer float is a must have. Lots of shade and beautiful scenery! It was our first time and I'm sure we will be back. read more

Lake Hemet - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

Very clean, nice staff, well maintained. Go mid-week like we did. Weekend way too crowded. Great access to hiking and the town of Idyllwild. Only bummer is algae buildup which keeps people out of the water. Fishing can be pretty decent early morning and around sunset. I was pleasantly surprised. read more

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I wish I could give more stars. We hosted my Father In Laws memorial here over the weekend, we cannot express our gratitude for Kaitlynn & Arianna who went over the moon to make access & enjoyment for our guests as easy as possible. We were overwhelmed by their kindness & could not have had a better time celebrating the life of my father in law. 1000000000000000000 stars. read more

Lake Hemet - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

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The lake is for fishing or overnight camping. Not really a day visit place. I stayed 30 minutes. read more

Lake Hemet - Beautiful trees. - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

Lake Hemet is a great campground. The lake was nice and clean and the fish were biting. The only thing I would say is if you're camping there in a RV and choose bear campground Make sure you check your hook ups. The dumps are really far in 332 and 333. We had to dump in another site that family members were using. 333 had its dump on a bad incline so dumping was just not possible it just ran back even while raising the hose just not practical for a full hook up site unfortunately. That was the only downside of the trip. 4.5 is the best I would give due to this issue. Staff were great and public restrooms were clean. 332 on the map shows empty on the side of it but there is a living quarters for someone there, so if that's an issue for you do not book that spot. I would definitely come back but unfortunately not to the spot I had. I loved it but the dump was a big inconvenience for a full hook up site. Ps get the Turkey Sandwich from the store you won't be disappointed! read more

Lake Hemet - 332 on the left 333 on the right. - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

This was such an awesome family trip! We enjoyed every second here. It was our first time camping, and with 3 small children we were a little nervous. But this place is absolutely perfect for kids. The splash pad was excellent. The volleyball and basketball courts kept them busy, and the lake was beyond gorgeous. The staff were friendly and welcoming. We can't wait to visit again. read more

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Expensive for a lake with reduced water levels and an algae bloom that prohibits any humans or pets swimming in it. Next time will try Hurkey Creek down the road 2 miles. Looks much nicer for hiking and views. Good thing is the location for both is only 20 mins to Idyllwild sweet mountain town. read more

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This is the second time we visit lake Hemet. Nature at its finest, restrooms are very clean and well kept. Not speaking of individual restrooms I'm speaking of the building they have where you find the men's and woman's restrooms. The cleaning person was getting ready to clean woman's restrooms at around 7 AM. The restrooms were left very clean. I think he deserves a raise as they also have showers in there and they were spotless, I was very pleased to see that since at most camp sites restrooms are very dirty and smelly. Not At lake Hemet, restrooms even have heaters on when you walk in early AM. Totally enjoyed it and feel comfortable knowing I have the essentials even away from home, makes it more enjoyable. read more

Lake Hemet - The campsite - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

Saw a post about this place on TikTok so decided to try it out for one weekend since it's not too far from OC. We booked a lakeside dry camping spot #400 in Camp 4 and locked it. What we loved: the place is well established and offers many options for camping such as cabins, glamping tents, dry camping, rv camping. Bathrooms were cleaned regularly with flush toilets, free showers, hand soap and hot water which is a luxury. Campers all were so nice and friendly. We were next to a volleyball court and had friendly VB games all weekend with our camp neighbors and their kids. There's also a bball court. Kept the kids busy. The place also offers lake activities such as kayaking, pontoon boats and motor boats. We booked a 4 person one for $85 For 2hrs for my son to go fishing and we had a great time. You can also drive your car and park right at the lakeside itself, many campers did this and hung out at the lakeside fishing with their cars. This campsite def offers alot of options for group camping bc they have sooooo many sites and there were many big groups of families who were having a blast and were enjoying themselves even past the 10pm quiet time and the host didn't seem to mind- a plus for us because we can be loud ourselves and nothing ruins a weekend quicker than being yelled at by a host to be quiet. The entire campground was fenced off with an entry gate with security so it felt very safe to take hikes and leave our site unattended. Friendly Security was also always driving around checking up on everyone and asking if we needed anything. Wildlife: cows grazing by the lake, big trout being caught by ppl fishing the lake, hawks flying overhead catching squirrels, coyotes howling at night- we loved all of it Cons: lake receded so much that our lakeside site wasn't really next to the lake (out of their control). Onsite store didn't have much and except for snacks and drinks (we needed shampoo which they didn't have) so plan to bring what u need. Lake was off completely limits to any body contact due to algae bloom and was green but lake was still clean and nice to boat in and had nice views. They also offer a little kiddie water slide and play area which is nice since you can't swim in the lake. A community pool would've been the icing on the cake to cool off for adults and teens since it was hot and dusty and u cant swim in the lake. Overall had a perfect weekend kids said it was one of their favorite campsites and def will be back again 10/10 read more

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Place was nice fishing was ok but $25 to get in and $10to fish is kind of pricey although I still paid it Hopefully it all goes back into improving the lake or fishing stocks The guy at the gate and the girl in the store were both friendly The views were really beautiful Maybe it's better to camp there instead of day use because campers get 1 free fishing pass but you have to book 2 night which also sucks read more

Lake Hemet - Mt Lassen rainbow trout - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

We had a great 4 month stay this summer! This was our 5th summer at the Lake - as it's the perfect escape from the desert heat!! The staff is what makes it such a pleasure! Every single one of them are just wonderful "stellar" people!! A special big thank you to Jeff Walls! He was very instrumental in setting us up for a perfect situation to make our future returns even more amazing for years to come! Jeff is attentive and works hard to build a good moral within a very diverse community. He makes himself available for any and all situations. We appreciate all the staff and their conscious support of keeping the grounds safe and efficient for the many who call it home! Thank you! Looking forward to next summer already! read more

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We recently went camping with our boys (5 & 2),it was their first time and it was the perfect spot for them. The lake view was amazing, our boys loved running in the open, the squirrels, birds, fishing and we even got lucky to hear the coyotes howling at 5 am.... nice little wake up call. Can't wait to come back here next year. read more

Lake Hemet - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

We wanted to say thank you for allowing our family to share many memories over the years with all of you at lake Hemet. I wanted to tell you this weekend we found out the sex of our first grandchild at lake Hemet!! , I wish to share with you. Also we can truly see the changes with the new management!! Keep up the great work. read more

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as a family with 3 boys 7 and younger we always have an amazing time! the grounds are very clean. the little shop is useful and great to have. we love the basketball court and playground as added options of fun. we come every year and we cant wait to be back read more

Lake Hemet - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

Amazing time up there, clean restrooms and friendly staff. Beautiful view of lake and nice hiking trails

This was our first time camping here and we had a good time. It was mid November so obviously chilly, high 60s during the day at low 30s at night. But thankfully the full hookups allowed us to run the heater (beware frozen pipes/water lines though!). The spot we were in, 341 in Bear Camp 2B, was nice and backed up to the creek. I didn't like that I had to pay an additional fee to 'lock in' the site we picked for fear they'd shuffle us away from our friends (that's what they said could potentially happen). Especially when the cost for a premium site per night is way higher than most places nearby. But they have a lot of discount codes each season (you have to call to use them though ours didn't work online) to bring the per night cost down a bit. The playground we went to (maybe there were others we missed) was odd, pretty tiny and a fence all around it. And the signage really needs to be updated - we arrived at dark and it was really hard to see where to go to get to the right campground. Overall, we had a nice time though, and it was really beautiful so I look forward to visiting again in the warmer months when the creek is flowing a bit more. read more

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We arrived late on a Friday evening. The campground was quiet. The lake was calm. Children playing, ducks quacking, birds flying everywhere, and the trees swaying in the wind. A welcome sight after hours of travel. We were greeted with a smile, a nod and a hefty welcome. Our site was spotted and it took only moments to level and get to enjoying our weekend. It was a pleasant weekend. Plenty of hosts travelling the grounds in their golf carts, seeing to our every need. We saw many fisherman catching their dinners, neighbors offering to share, and several enjoying the lake. We launched our kayaks and took a few hours to move around the lake, visiting all shores. The market at both the entrance and the marina were nicely done. Had all we needed. Overall, a wonderful weekend. We'll be back! read more

Lake Hemet - A view of our site and the lake from #444 - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

Had such a great time in lake hemet. Stayed in one of their rv rentals and it was clean and stocked with basic essentials. Also booked a pontoon boat and the guy there was very helpful and was cracking jokes with us. read more

Lake Hemet - Lake hemet. - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

We have camped here several times every time our RV spot is immaculate large space the grounds are kept up beautifully even though we have our own bathroom we have utilized the parks bathrooms, which are always clean and well stocked. We do travel with three dogs and enjoy the dog park area. We were very surprised at how clean the dog park area is. And we were very grateful for that. The little market that is there is always so friendly and every day we make a walk with our dogs just to get their ice cream so yummy. We enjoy camping there and look forward to more adventures. The only thing that would make lake Hemet even more fun as if the water was available for people to swim, and if there was a dog area for dogs to swim. read more

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We took our kids for their first tent experience and we were happily surprised . We went during the week (Tuesday - Thursday) in the middle of July. We made reservations for 3 sites that were not considered "lake view", but we still had a pretty nice view of the lake. The lake was walking distance for fishing. The sites were clean. Our site was close to the restrooms with flushable toilets and showers, and they were also clean. There were trees to provide some shade, although where the shade hit depended on the time of day. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring but no grill. Overall we were happy with the site and our experience in the lake. We wish the sites were a little larger or more spaced out, but all in all it was a great experience. read more

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We LOVE Lake Hemet! Our family has been here at the least a half dozen times. This past weekend was our first time renting a pontoon at the Marina! The pontoon was well maintained. Excellent service from Roberto. He was very helpful and was so kind to our group. My husbands father has trouble walking at a slope and Roberto gladly gave him a lift in the golf cart back to our truck. We didn't catch any fish but we had a great time! read more

ED is the man!!! Excellent Customer Service at Lake Hemet Boat Rentals!!! We had a great experience at Lake Hemet Boat Rentals thanks to Ed and Shayla! After a mix-up with our reservation due to a miscommunication from another employee, Ed stepped in and completely turned the situation around. He went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of, apologizing sincerely and making things right without hesitation. His calm and professional approach ensured we left happy rather than frustrated--exactly what great customer service looks like. Big shout out to Shayla as well, who stayed after hours so we could enjoy our boat rental without being rushed. Her kindness and patience were the icing on the cake. Thanks again to Ed and Shayla for saving the day and making our time at Lake Hemet memorable for all the right reasons! read more

Upon arrival the check in process was quick & attendant was informative. However when we pulled into the campground BOY WAS IT A SHOCKER!!! I asked hubby are we in the right place? There's so many long term residents who don't keep up with there sites. The sewer was so difficult for many people to dump as it wasn't ground level. We went with our daughter & cousin. We had 3 sites alongside each other. We decided to make the best of it. As we reserved from Thursday- Sunday. We did ask if we could change spots but they were fully booked. As you know how much planning goes behind each trip. As we explored the campground. There were premium sites closer to the lake, lots of dry camping & partial hook ups. We definitely chose the wrong side to stay. We had a blast! We got our workout in, rode bikes with our granddaughters, made delicious food, laughed, fished, most importantly created great memories!!! We laugh about it now as will definitely go back but not in the #100 spots. read more

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Love this campground and it's setting. First time visiting here and I loved so many things about it. Campers are friendly, staff is helpful, lake is stunning. The campground is clean and huge which gives us so many areas to camp. Glamping tents and cottages are available for those without an RV. Plenty of RV spaces with or without hookups. One can dry camp by the lake and fish early in the morning. Or, yo can camp anywhere in the park and drive to the edge of the lake to fish. They also have a fabulous general store that offers food. Laundry facilities and bathrooms are also available. Campground is close to Idyllwild, so one can spend the day there shopping, eating and listening to the many singers playing music. Fun town! read more

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Ive been comming here since i was 8 years old, im 65 now, ive seen the changes as years go on, right now the improvements are good this campground has changed hands for the better, need more full hook up and Restrooms need to be rebuilt, it is a pieceful lake the beauty is great, I stayed in campsite #610 at the very end of the lake nobody was around so pieceful during the the fall, I highly recommend this place... read more

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We LOVE Lake Hemet! We have normally been able to book a water front sight. Very busy weekend July 12th-14 and somewhat last minute reservations (3 weeks in advance) we were able to secure spot 577 & 578 in catfish camping. Please do not rent those spots. 577 has a pit toilet, people walking thru campsite at all hours of the night, door open and closing all nite, the smell. LH should remove that as a campsite. 578 still very close to bathroom and a large space between campsite 579 (not level and can't set a tent up) that people think are part of the road and DRIVE thru.. Again we LOVE Lake Hemet and will return. Just don't recommend those spots. read more

Lake Hemet - Campgrounds Near Me - Mountain Center, California

We decided to check out th campground for a last minute trip to end the year off. We booked site 406 which was a nice size site for our pop up trailer. We still made the best of the trip with the wet weather. We ended the trip two days early though due to the weather conditions. We were literally the only people on loop 4 after the storm scared the other campers away for the weekend. I would definitely return, but in a different time of the year for nicer weather. Staff was also accommodating and refunded us for two nights. read more

Lake Hemet is a beautiful place to camp. Last year 2024 was a great experience except the staff didn't give us the flyer about the kids water play area... all was made right and we are heading up a main in a few weeks. It's a wonderful campground and the staff is great. read more

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This review is for boat rentals! We did day use and drove from our cabin in Pine Cove in about 20 minutes because lake fulmor is currently closed. RESA the woman at the boat rental place is a SUPERSTAR... remember to bring a cash tip for her... she deserves to be paid more!!! She handled a MOB of people (in person and on the phone with a ton of questions) with grace and was so kind to everyone under pressure. I asked her if I can use the hose to clean some blood off of our boat from a fish and she wouldn't let me because "that was her job!" when she was super busy. I wished we could have afforded to tip her $1 million dollars... such a sweet lady and our experience was 5 stars because of her. Boat logistics: pretty much whatever they have online is what they have available. If it says call to book it's probably booked. We went Saturday early and scored the standard pontoon but it sells out quick. We were on our annual boys fishing trip and realized the standard pontoon was fancy enough for us. But the premium boats look really nice and you can actually fish from them... unlike the big bear marinas. We paid circa $200 with entrance and fees for 4 hours Saturday and wayyy less for Monday/weekday 8-3 when there are deals for like 30% off. Simple deposit around $150 returned quickly. Parking and walking to the boat/bathroom wasn't a huge walking trek like big bear or arrowhead. Bathroom was very close to the marina. Store on site was well stocked and has everything you need. When you book online beforehand it includes your parking fee of $25. If you just show up on the slower week days you have to pay that fee to enter unless your name is already on the books when you check in at the front station. When I first heard "lake Hemet" I was worried what it would look like. The lake was epic and beautiful and we saw bald eagles swooping to their nesting sites on the non camping side of the lake and cows grazing on the shore. Definitely worth getting a boat. read more

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