Lake Perris is 1,560 feet (480 m) above sea level and is surrounded by hills and small mountains. It impounds 131,400 acre-feet (162,100,000 m³) of water behind a 2-mile (3 km) long, 128-foot (39 m) tall, chevron-shaped earthfill dam. The untended areas of Lake Perris are somewhat rocky and barren.
An artificial reef exists on the lake floor made of old tires. The reef was created to provide a habitat for fish.
The lake has become a hotspot for freshwater game fishing. Largemouth bass, spotted bass, bluegill, rainbow trout, channel catfish, black crappie, redear sunfish, and carp are all present in the lake. As the climate is warm, the California Department of Fish and Game regularly stocks rainbow trout throughout the winter months. The lake records for each species are noted here:
Largemouth bass, bluegill, rainbow trout, channel catfish, black crappie, and redear sunfish tend to be the primary focus of anglers. The trout usually only bite in the cooler months after the DFG stocks them.
There are many recreational activities allowed on, in, and around Lake Perris and in the State Recreation Park. Guided hikes are offered on the trail around the lake, and several camping sites are located near the lakeside. The lake is open for boating from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily during the summer. Other activities include fishing, picnicking, horseback riding, swimming (in designated areas), and rock climbing.
