Check your vehicle before the trip and make sure it’s in good condition for any mountainous or desert road conditions you may encounter.
Learn about the types of wildlife found in Lake Perris: Mule deer, roadrunners, bobcats, coyotes, cotton tail, jack rabbits, quail, gopher snakes, and rattlesnakes may sometimes be seen by day, though they tend to shy away from people. More frequently seen are a wide variety of lizards, rodents, water fowl, and birds of prey. Be able to identify poisonous snakes that may be found in the area and any appropriate first aid treatment.
Camping
Make sure your camping equipment is in good shape.
Arrive early so you have plenty of time to check your campsite and set up camp before dark.
Check your site for potential hazards, such as ant beds, poison oak,, etc.
Take precautions to protect your food and equipment from other animals.
Make sure your tent is at least 15-feet upwind from grills and fires. Maintain at least a 3 feet of clear area around tent, free from leaves and dry grass.
Use only battery-operated lights in or near tents and never use heaters that emit carbon monoxide in your tent or camping vehicle.
Mark tent stakes and poles with bright fabrics or tennis balls to avoid tripping.
Never refill the 1-pound propane cylinders commonly used for camping, which are labeled as Department of Transportation (DOT) 39 cylinders. These types of containers were not designed to withstand the stresses of emptying and refilling, and this practice is extremely dangerous and can lead to leaks, fires and even explosions, according to the Department of Transportation
Campfires
Build a campfire in designated firepits. Be aware of surrounding brush or decaying leaves and needles.
Do not build the fire larger than necessary.
Never leave fire unattended and never leave children around a fire unattended.
Always keep a shovel and bucket of water nearby at all times.
Extinguish the campfire completely before leaving.
Due to the threat of the goldspotted oak borer spreading throughout San Diego County and into Riverside County, no oak firewood will be allowed into Lake Perris SRA. Wood can be purchased inside the park. Other species of firewood, such as pine or eucalyptus, is still allowed.
Sun
Always wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens can be used on babies over the age of six months.
Avoid tanning and especially, do not burn!
Swimming
Observe rules and only swim in designated areas at designated times.
Do not enter the water if it’s too cold.
Actively supervise children in and around water, giving them your undivided attention. Appoint a designated adult “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults and letting children know who that water watcher is.
Diving
Observe rules and only dive in designated areas. Rocks, cliffs, piers, etc., are not approved for jumping and diving from.
Hazards can be hidden underneath the water’s surface, even in familiar waters. Exercise extreme caution.
Dive to your ability, training and experience level.
Check the actual diving and weather conditions as well as underwater visibility and currents.
Always dive with a buddy and have an emergency plan you have agreed on with your buddy.
Know your entry and exit points.
Plan your dive and dive your plan!
Hiking
Tell a responsible person back at camp where you are going and when you plan on returning.
Hike with a friend.
Never feed or touch wildlife. Do not approach or attempt to move sick or injured wildlife. Please report any encounters with aggressive, sick or injured animals to a park ranger or festival staff.
Wildlife lives in all state parks, even near urban areas. Although rare, black bears, mountain lions and rattlesnakes may be seen. If you encounter wildlife, keep your distance, back away slowly and do not run. Report your sightings to a State Parks ranger pr festival staff.
If you see a snake, maintain a distance of at least 6 feet. Most bites occur when people get too close or try to touch them.
Ticks: Populations are expected to rise again this season. Take the following precautions to avoid them: Walk in the middle of trails, Use insect repellent, check for hitchhiking ticks with the help of a friend.
Learn about the types of wildlife found in Lake Perris: Mule deer, roadrunners, bobcats, coyotes, cotton tail, jack rabbits, quail, gopher snakes, and rattlesnakes may sometimes be seen by day, though they tend to shy away from people. More frequently seen are a wide variety of lizards, rodents, water fowl, and birds of prey.
Poison Oak
Poison Oak a common plant throughout much of California. Learn to identify its shiny, three-leaf pattern, and avoid touching it. If you touch poison oak, wash immediately with water and mild soap. Pat dry with a clean towel.