Lake Mathews is a quiet mountain community located around Lake Mathews, a reservoir serving over a million people in Southern California. During the day here, residents can spend some time outside hiking and enjoying the sunny weather. While at night, they can observe the starry sky without light pollution clouding their views. To preserve the reservoir’s water quality and to ensure the preservation of wildlife, Lake Mathews and some of the surrounding land remain inaccessible, offering residents a remote lifestyle. Many are drawn to this neighborhood for its diverse home styles and picturesque views.
A secluded lifestyle and custom-built properties
Almost all the homes in Lake Mathews are custom-built and range from 2,000 to 4,000 square feet with a median sales price of $791,500. A custom, 2,000-square-foot ranch-style home can go for $800,000, while a custom, 4000-square-foot two-story home can sell for $1.8 million. Custom builds mean that the streets contour the landscape’s natural topography. Some houses cut into the hillside, offering panoramic lake and landscape views, while others sit on large 2-to-3-acre parcels. Styles range from contemporary properties with Tudor-inspired features to Spanish Revivals. Larry Robillard, an associate broker at Realty Masters and Associates with over thirty years of experience in the real estate market, says, “Homes here have a country feel to them. People can be in Southern California but feel like they’re out in the country.” Part of this feeling could be due to the fact that Lake Mathews doesn't have an abundance of streetlights, and many streets do not feature sidewalks. “It’s somewhat of an isolated community,” Robillard says. “To the north is Lake Mathews, and to the east is the Mathews Estelle Mountain Reserve. To the west is open space that will not be developed.” This secluded lifestyle offers locals private and expansive lots.
Spanish Revival properties are common in Lake Mathews.
Locals can embrace luxury living in Lake Mathews' contemporary homes.
Lake Mathews residents enjoy views of the Mathews Estelle Mountain Reserve.
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Swimming, birdwatching and picnicking among orange groves
Less than 18 miles from Lake Mathews sits Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Residents and visitors alike enjoy views of the distant rocky mountains while swimming in the lake’s cold water. Or they can enjoy other water-oriented activities like scuba diving and boating. Photographers love taking snapshots of the area’s blooming wildflowers, like the orange California poppies, while birdwatchers quietly wait to catch a glimpse of local wildlife. At Dos Lagos Park, visitors walk around a pond, spotting local wildlife as they enjoy the serene environment. California Citrus State Historic Park is another great outdoor spot. Only a 10-mile drive from Lake Mathews, this park is perfect for a picnic among the orange groves or for learning about the cultivation of citrus fruits in Southern California. Outdoor enthusiasts can even take a hike to explore the different citrus varieties.
Dos Lagos Park, a recreational space near Lake Mathews, offers paved pathways.
Lake Mathews locals get some fresh air at Dos Lagos Park, also popular among pigeons.
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Small markets and local eateries
Residents can pick up everyday essentials and grab a burrito at Lake Mathews General Store and Deli. Gavilan Hills Ranch Market also offers quick essentials, while Victoria Grove Produce Market is a hot spot for fresh fruits and vegetables. Or for breakfast-out, the family-owned Rodeo Café serves traditional American food with a Mexican twist every day of the week from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Restaurants like the Club 80’s Bar and Grill are perfect for those who love retro music. Hosting events like '80s and '90s dance parties, this club offers patrons a place to eat, drink and dance to their heart’s content.
Gavilan Hills Ranch Market, a small store near Lake Mathews, is perfect for quick essentials.
Those in search of organic produce head to Lake Mathews' Victoria Grove Produce Market.
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Riverside Unified School District
Students here attend schools that are part of the Riverside Unified School District, like Lake Mathews Elementary School, a California Distinguished School; Frank Augustus Miller Middle, which has received multiple Models of Excellence awards; and Martin Luther King High School, recipient of The Golden Bell Award. With such notable accolades, it should come as no surprise that all three schools receive ratings of A-minus or higher from Niche.
Commutes and nearby major employers
Most Lake Mathews residents are car-dependent. Healthcare workers enjoy their proximity to the Riverside Community Hospital, which is around 20 miles away via Cajalco Road. Another major employer near Lake Mathews is Collins Aerospace, which is less than 20 miles away. Riverside is just 19 miles east via California 91. Those wanting to explore other cities head around 28 miles north via Interstate 15 to the Ontario International Airport.
Written By
Marianna Dionysiou
Photography Contributed By
Khiem Huynh
Video By
Khalil Chisholm
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Simcoe,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Perched atop approximately two private acres in the desirable Lake Mathews Estates, this stunning hilltop home offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, city lights, and surrounding mountains paired with exceptional privacy, usable land, and thoughtful upgrades throughout. This spacious 6 bedroom, 4 bath residence is ideal for large or multi-generational living, featuring dual primary
Discover space, serenity, and opportunity at this remarkable Perris property set on over one acre of land. Featuring two separate homes on one lot, this unique estate offers a rare blend of privacy, flexibility, and charm. The lush, thoughtfully designed landscaping creates a peaceful, park-like setting where every day feels like a retreat. Enjoy the freedom of rural living with room to breathe,
Welcome Home to 19069 Eldorado! Situated on a corner, 1/2 acre lot in the community of Boulder Springs, the desirable, sought-after area of Woodcrest! This gorgeous home is conveniently located close to Lake Mathews, Corona, Riverside, with the luxury of great dining and shopping minutes away from South Corona at Dos Lagos. Meticulously designed for comfort and functionality, this home offers an
3.44 acres located in beautiful Lake Mathews, just 10-15 minutes from the 15 freeway east of Corona and Dos Lagos shopping and entertainment. Movies, restaurants, golfing and 30-40 minutes to Temecula Wine Country.
Get away from it all—enjoy peaceful rural living just 15 minutes from the city. This custom-built home, constructed in 1989, sits on over two acres of land and offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles. An impressive 80-foot wraparound deck provides the perfect vantage point to enjoy sweeping views of Lake Mathews, mountain vistas and sparkling city lights.Designed as a true
What a great buy for a home that has just been remodeled. This manufactured home is on a permanent foundation. Improvement include New Cabinets, New Flooring, New Windows, New Doors, New Stove, Newer Plumbing and more. Features 2 Bedrooms and 1 Bathroom. The laundry area is inside in the hallway. Stay warm in the winter with the central heater unit which is also AC ready. Carport for 2 to 3 cars
This fully renovated single story home in Perris, CA is conveniently located just off Cajalco Expressway and minutes from Lake Mathews. Inside, it features brand new flooring, fresh paint, upgraded bathrooms with custom doors, and brand new windows throughout for improved comfort and efficiency. The kitchen offers quartz countertops and upgraded appliances, providing everyday convenience while
GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR DEVELOPMENT OR INVESTMENT, GREAT LOCATION IN THE LAKE MATHEWS AREA IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY. SELLERS ARE SELLING ALL 4 APNS TOGETHER - RECENT SURVEY HAS BEEN DONE AND RECORDED WITH THE COUNTY. IN A GREAT AREA FOR BUILDING A CUSTOM HOME OR HOMES OR THAT BEAUTIFUL RANCH HOME WITH ALL YOUR LIVESTOCK. COUNTY STATES 1 HOME PER EVERY 5 ACRES IS ALLOWED. PERFECT FOR CUSTOM HOMES WHERE
Great opportunity for investment and great location with existing homes across the street already. Tomas Rivera middle school less than a mile and a half away. Electricity and water at main street. All offers will be entertained. property is across the street from 20673 Cajalco Rd
**Opportunity Awaits: Prime Land Next to Million-Dollar Homes!**Discover the ideal canvas for your next home or investment project! This expansive lot is perfectly situated adjacent to luxurious million-dollar residences, offering both privacy and prestige. With record-low inventory in the market, seize the chance to create your dream home on a generous plot or explore the potential to
Vince LacambraCochran Real Estate Professionals Inc
Can you believe a home THIS NICE is priced UNDER $400K? Don’t wait—schedule your showing today! This is the perfect starter home, offering both charm and functionality. From the moment you arrive, you’ll love the spacious circular driveway and deep carport with room for 5–6 vehicles, plus all your toys. A covered side patio stretches nearly the entire length of the home and leads you to a
Great opportunity to own a prime view lot in the heart of Lake Mathews. Located on a quiet paved cul-e-sac of custom homes and horse ranches. The property is a gentle slope with prime views of Lake Mathews, the Inland Valley, and the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains. Create a perfect homesite at the top and add areas for horses, barn, workshops, or any other needs. Perhaps an ADU.
Beyond the hustle and bustle of the city, 20455 Somma Avenue graces the picturesque shores of Lake Mathews, offering breathtaking 180 lake views and a seamless fusion of luxury, tranquility, and nature. Just a 45-minute drive from Orange County Airport, this nearly 4.5-acre estate provides both the convenience of city access and the serenity of a private retreat.A lush, manicured front yard
OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE. Nestled in the tranquil community of Lake Mathews, this 3.25 acre lot offers breathtaking lake views and is perfectly positioned on a peaceful cul-de-sac. Fully graded and ready for construction, the property comes equipped with an installed water meter, and the permit, design, and perk test for a septic system have already been paid for - saving valuable time and
Gavilan Hills area, beautiful 50 acres of slightly sloping property with view of Lake Mathews. Located right off Cajalco Rd. Property runs from Archer Rd. East to Loudenberry Rd. Off these 15 freeway East to Cajalco Rd and Archer Rd.
Mockingbird Canyon / Woodcrest estate rental on 2.4 acres featuring a 4BR/2.5BA home (2,272 sq ft), private in-ground saltwater pool & spa, and a large detached building (Shop). Gated and fenced.DESCRIPTIONSingle-family home located in the desirable Mockingbird Canyon / Woodcrest area of Riverside.The property sits on 2.4 acres and offers privacy, space, and a quiet semi-rural setting
A perfect month to month rental in Lake Mathew if you need a short stay in Corona/Riverside area. This country living house offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms. Kitchen has upgraded granite counter and lots of cabinets. Living room has a cozy fire place and high ceiling. From the picturesque window and French door, You can see Lake Mathew and the snow clad mountain in winter. Dos Lagos shopping
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