Many
have ventured into the newer RV Parks that more of the Indian Casinos
have added to their resorts. With the quality of these parks being so
nice, many RV folks are returning more frequently. Some readers have
asked Russ and Lori where they might find lake or dry camping, close to
the areas surrounding some of these resort properties.
Temecula
is a fine area to visit if you want the diversity of nearby lake
camping while also having a close drive to the casinos and other options
available for the entire family. Russ and Lori suggest Vail Lake Resort
as one of the top lake camping facilities in the area. Still relatively
close to retail outlets, restaurants, casinos, golfing, and other
activities, Vail Lake is about a 30 minute drive to central Temecula and
about 75 miles to Palm Springs off of highway 79. Vail Lake is a resort
facility. It is managed by the California Parks Company and operated by
the Rancho California Water District.
Vail
Lake has plenty of historical value. This was once a resting and
stopover destination of the Butterfield Stage Coach Line. Nearly 70
years ago, the owners of Vail Cattle Ranch built a 132-foot high dam
that created today's current lake. Once the cattle industry diminished
in the area, Rancho California Water District took over the operations
of the dam in 1978. Vail Lake is a 1,000 acre lake that is known for
some pretty good largemouth bass fishing.
The
area is beautiful with its California Oak Trees, some of which are
hundreds of years old. Vail Lake RV Resort is on more than 8,000 acres
of open land with breathtaking views of the Temecula chaparral
hillsides. The resort has ramped up its amenities with miniature golf,
great fishing (California State fishing license requirements apply ),
horseshoes, and many very nice trails for hiking or biking. For just
relaxing by a pool, you have three pool choices. One is a kids wading
pool, one is a lap pool, and the other is a nice leisure swimming pool.
Very cool about the management at this RV Resort, you can borrow such
things as Frisbees, soccer balls, croquet sets, disc golf equipment,
ping pong balls, and other activities.
If
you are into fishing, the latest fishing report we have for Vail Lake
shows a water temperature of about 75 degrees. Folks in float tubes,
kayaks, and canoes seem to be having good luck catching some limits. The
bite is on for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. If you own a boat
and wish to use it on Vail Lake, please call ahead first. The launch
ramp had been closed due to the low water levels. Pleasure boats had not
been able to launch for some time.
There
are different areas to camp at the resort. The Oaks area is very family
friendly. Full water, 30/50 amp electric, and sewer are available. Russ
and Lori suggest bringing your own folding tables and chairs. Every
site does not have a table. If you would like a quieter, more adult
oriented campsite, maybe try the Chardonnay Mesa sites. These are some
of the best view sites of Vail Lake. These sites also have full hook-ups
yet electric is limited to 30 amps. If seclusion is your deal, try the
Arroyo Seco sites. It is really quiet in this part of the park. Water
and septic are available, but there is no electric RV hook-up in these
spaces.
