Top 10 Budget Friendly RV Camping Spots Near Murrieta, California
If you’re craving adventure but want to stay on a budget, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort, nature, or location. With Murrieta, California as your starting point, you’re within easy reach of some of Southern California’s most scenic and budget friendly RV camping destinations. Whether you're drawn to lakeside views, desert serenity, or mountain breezes, there's an affordable RV campsite just a short drive away.
To help you plan your next affordable escape, we’ve rounded up the top 10 budget friendly RV camping spots near Murrieta, California, all located within a 1–2 hour drive and perfect for travelers renting an RV locally.
1. Lake Skinner Recreation Area
Distance from Murrieta: 30 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$30–$40
A favorite among locals, Lake Skinner offers scenic lakeside camping, full hookups, and lots of room to roam. Campers can fish, hike, or simply enjoy a quiet picnic under the cottonwoods. Basic comforts like fire pits, restrooms, and showers are available, making it both affordable and family-friendly.
Budget Tip: Visit midweek or in the off-season to snag the lowest rates.
2. Vail Lake KOA (Temecula)
Distance from Murrieta: 25 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$40–$55 for partial hookup sites
While KOAs can sometimes lean pricey, the Vail Lake KOA offers more affordable tent and RV sites further from the main lodge area. Located in the rolling hills east of Temecula, it’s perfect for biking, hiking, or enjoying starlit nights on a budget.
Budget Tip: Book a partial hookup site and use the on-site bathrooms and showers to save.
3. Wilderness Lakes RV Resort (Thousand Trails - Menifee)
Distance from Murrieta: 20 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$25–$35 (with Thousand Trails membership or pass)
This water-centric RV resort offers canals, ducks, and all the basics for a relaxing stay. If you have a Thousand Trails pass or use a discount RV club membership like Passport America, rates can be extremely affordable.
Budget Tip: Ask about a trial membership or stay during the off-season.
4. Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve (Primitive Camping Nearby)
Distance from Murrieta: 15 minutes
Nightly Rate: Free–$15 (at nearby BLM or dispersed sites)
Though camping isn’t allowed directly in the reserve, there are several dispersed and low-cost BLM camping options in the surrounding areas. If you’re renting a self-contained RV, this is a serene, wild choice just minutes from Murrieta.
Budget Tip: Call ahead or check online BLM maps for updated availability and access roads.
5. Lake Perris State Recreation Area
Distance from Murrieta: 50 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$35–$45
Lake Perris is a scenic spot for budget travelers who enjoy water sports, hiking, or birdwatching. RV sites come with picnic tables and fire rings, and many have partial or full hookups. Enjoy beautiful lake views for a fraction of the cost of bigger campgrounds.
Budget Tip: Reserve online early through CA State Parks to lock in lower prices.
6. Hurkey Creek Park (Idyllwild Area)
Distance from Murrieta: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$25–$35
Located in the San Jacinto Mountains near Idyllwild, Hurkey Creek is perfect for travelers who want cooler temperatures, pine trees, and peaceful surroundings. While it offers mostly dry camping, the beauty and quiet make it a value-packed destination.
Budget Tip: No need for hookups if you rent a self-sufficient RV—perfect for dry camping here.
7. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
Distance from Murrieta: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$35–$50
This spot books fast, but it’s one of the most affordable ocean-view RV camping options in Southern California. Campsites perch on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, and the atmosphere is unbeatable for the price.
Budget Tip: Book 6 months in advance for peak season—cheaper weekdays are your best bet.
8. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Distance from Murrieta: 2 hours
Nightly Rate: Free (dispersed), or ~$25 (developed sites)
California’s largest state park offers free dispersed RV camping in designated areas and a few developed campgrounds with low nightly rates. With towering canyon walls, desert flowers, and total silence, it’s a budget camper’s dream.
Budget Tip: Bring extra water and power sources; most sites are dry.
9. Potrero County Park (East San Diego County)
Distance from Murrieta: 1 hour 45 minutes
Nightly Rate: ~$25–$30
A peaceful, lesser-known county park tucked into the mountains near the Mexico border, Potrero County Park is quiet and scenic. With hookups, showers, and nature trails, it’s a great value for RV travelers seeking peace and budget-friendly accommodations.
Budget Tip: San Diego County parks offer multi-night discounts—book longer for better rates.
10. Hemet Lake Campground
Distance from Murrieta: 1 hour
Nightly Rate: ~$25–$35
Overlooking a tranquil mountain lake, Hemet Lake Campground is ideal for RVers wanting a laid-back, affordable trip. The setting is serene, and amenities are basic but sufficient for a peaceful stay.
Budget Tip: Call the office for specials—they often offer weekday deals in the off-season.
How to Explore These Spots in a Rented RV
The best part about planning a budget friendly RV camping trip near Murrieta, California is how easy it is to access all these locations from one central point. Renting an RV locally gives you the freedom to explore multiple campgrounds in one trip, save on hotels, and travel with everything you need—from your bed to your kitchen—on wheels.
Choose a fuel-efficient campervan or travel trailer, pack some food, and plan a route that lets you hop between lakes, mountains, and desert for a true California adventure—without blowing your budget.
Start Your Affordable Adventure Today
Ready to hit the road without overspending? Rent a clean, reliable RV from Get Lost RV in Murrieta, California—your local, trusted rental provider. Whether you're looking for a compact trailer or a full-size motorhome, they have options to match your travel style and your budget.
Visit https://www.getlostrvllc.com to browse available rentals and start planning your affordable RV escape today.
