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
Kay Lee,
an experienced agent in this area.
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A rare opportunity in the desirable Lake Mathews area of Perris, this property offers approximately 4.49 acres of land just minutes from Lake Mathews. With excellent privacy, a peaceful rural setting, and plenty of usable space, the land is ideal for buyers seeking room for horses, RV parking, vehicle storage, fruit trees, gardens, or future improvements. The property also includes a 4-bedroom,
Searching for a luxury home in Lake Mathews on acreage with panoramic lake and mountain views? This 4,743 sqft custom estate on 2.85 acres at 20390 Christo Ct captures sweeping 180 degree views of Lake Mathews, an infinity edge pool, and expansive indoor outdoor living designed for elevated Southern California living. Set above the surrounding landscape, this fully custom designed estate blends
Luxury Lake Mathews Estate with Panoramic Views on 2.21 AcresExperience elevated living in this fully upgraded Lake Mathews estate, where breathtaking mountain, hill, and lake views create a truly unforgettable setting. Situated on 2.21 private acres, this remarkable 4,292 sq. ft. residence offers 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and 2 half baths, thoughtfully designed for both grand
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
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.
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Two Homes on One Massive Lot in Coveted Woodcrest!Welcome to your private, 2.36-acre oasis in the prestigious, rural foothills of Woodcrest. This rare property at 16639 Fox Glen Road offers two independent single-story homes on one lot, providing an unbeatable setup for multi-generational living, long-term guests, or premium hosting. Boasting a total of 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms across 3,516
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
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Located on the quiet outskirts of Perris, near the rolling hills of Mockingbird Canyon and the surrounding Lake Mathews area, this estate presents a rare opportunity to own property in one of Riverside County’s more understated, private and spacious rural-residential corridors. Identified within Riverside County under the desirable 92570 ZIP code, this property offers a balance of open space,
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
***HIGHLY DESIRABLE 2.09 ACRE LOT IN LAKE MATHEWS ESTATES*** This unimproved 2.09 Acre Lot has Stunning Views of Lake Mathews with Panoramic Views!!! This property has amazing views of the Lake and Mountains and is a perfect location to build your Dream Home. This lot is surrounded by Beautiful Custom Homes and has the most Amazing Sunsets you will ever experience!!! Don't miss out as there are
Price Reduction. Experience the perfect blend of serenity and convenience on this stunning 4.59-acre flat parcel in Riverside. This "sun-kissed" property offers an unparalleled canvas for your dream residential or agricultural estate, boasting majestic views of Lake Mathews and the surrounding mountain reserves. While you'll enjoy the peace of a rural retreat, you are only minutes away from three
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
Beautiful upgraded home has a huge lot with a upgraded pebble tech pool, jacuzzi and waterfall. Home also boasts a basket ball/pick ball court! Upgraded large open kitchen. Features hard wood floors and french doors. Home sits on 1.68 acres and has mature landscaping. Comes with a gardener and pool service. The non-attached ADU is not included in the rental and has a Tenant residing in the
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