As a fall chill sets in and the spooky season creeps closer, there is no better time to look up and marvel at the moon’s eternal beauty–the crisp air and enchanting atmosphere setting the perfect backdrop for bearing witness to celestial wonders. The Hunter Moon, not to be confused with early-autumn’s Harvest moon, is a once-a-year spectacle succeeding the autumn equinox. This year, the Hunter Moon will rise on October 17th and shine its uniquely bright, burnt-orange glow for several nights, growing large as a result of our viewing the moon when it is lower in the sky. This gorgeous phenomenon can be viewed in Murrieta, as it offers some of the best spots to catch this breathtaking full moon for yourself.
Naming the moon cycles dates back to the Algonquin tribe, the indigenous people of Canada, who used these names to keep track of the changing seasons. The Hunter Moon was given its name due to the abundance of moonlight it provides during the critical time when hunters would stock up and store food before the winter. In Southern California, this period would have marked the peak of hunting for local fare such as rabbits and deer, as well as fish from nearby ocean and wetland environments. While we no longer rely on these rigorous preparations for winter, we can still celebrate and admire this natural phenomenon that once held so much significance.
The Hunter Moon will be visible on the West Coast around 6:30 PM, reaching its peak fullness at approximately 4:30 AM. If you are eager to catch a glimpse of this spectacle, the best viewing spots are those far from the harsh glare of city lights. Camping overnight in Murrieta provides the perfect conditions to fully appreciate the luminous glow of the moon. Here are some of the best locations you can go to see this striking scene:
Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers visitors a breathtaking escape with a wide range of invigorating recreational activities. Whether you’re camping overnight, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, or fishing, you’ll find lots of opportunities for entertainment before the sun sets.
Launch Pointe is a RV camping destination offering 7 unique, premier sites for your stay. Equipped with everything needed for a relaxing stay, you can finish off your day with clear views of the bright moon rising above the lake.
The Rolling M. Ranch Campground at Chino Hills State Park features 20 campsites, access to scenic trails, potable water, and toilets. With expansive views of the skies above you’ll have no problem seeing the moon in all its glory.
Set against a backdrop of rocky mountains and towering palms the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort offers a serene overnight experience with 24-hour access to the soothing hot spring pools. It’s the perfect spot to relax and watch the majestic Hunter Moon rise over you. If you prefer a shorter visit, the Twilight Soaking Pass starts at $49, and allows access to 25 pools from 4 to 10 PM, giving you ample time to soak up the invigorating waters and enjoy the moonlit sky.
The Wilderness Lakes Campground and RV Park is a family-friendly oasis featuring swimming pools, BBQ grills, laundry facilities, and more. With 50 campsites, full hook-ups, and spacious cabins, it is a great spot for visitors seeking a cozy retreat amidst nature’s endless beauty. As night falls, you can enjoy the sounds of the flowing canal under the glow of the Hunter Moon.
The Vail Lake KOA campground sprawls across 385 acres of rolling hills and open land, with RV sites, Deluxe Cabins, and traditional tent-site options for visitors to choose from. The scenic views are just an added bonus, making it the ideal spot for catching the mesmerizing sight of the rising Hunter Moon.
There is no better spot to enjoy the majestic, natural beauty of the Hunter Moon than Murrieta. Whether you prefer staying in a cabin or soaking up the peaceful tranquility of the natural hot springs, the diverse landscapes in this area offer a pristine backdrop for wistfully staring at the moon and basking in your appreciation of its timeless glow. Embrace this opportunity to relax and reflect, as you enjoy the natural wonders of this annual lunar event in Murrieta.
Plan your October getaway to Murrieta and experience the Hunter Moon for yourself.
