Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in northeastern California, Lake of the Pines is a gated community including a 232-acre private lake. Opened in 1967, it features four lakes: Hazel Lake, Huck Finn Pond, Entrance Pond, and the Main Lake. Of the 1,999 homes, about 15% have direct access to these lakes. The community offers a clubhouse, golf course, tennis courts, fishing, waterskiing, swimming, boating, and a scenic Gold Country setting.
Entrance Pond, also known as Gate Pond, is a half-acre area with a maximum depth of eight feet. It’s stocked with redear sunfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill sunfish, making it ideal for young anglers.
Huck Finn Pond, a three-acre pond once used for livestock, has a shoreline of 0.4 miles and a maximum depth of eight feet. Residents can use float tubes and pedal boats here. There’s also a fishing pier for catching largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish.
Hazel Lake is four acres with a maximum depth of 17 feet. It’s fed by winter rains and water from the Main Lake. Hazel Lake Park provides picnic areas, a sand volleyball court, a half-court basketball area, horseshoe pits, and a trail. Non-motorized boats and float tubes are allowed.
The 232-acre Main Lake, also known as Lake of the Pines, has the deepest point at 60 feet. It is maintained with water from nearby Lake Combie. The lake has five parks with beach access, a marina, and a swimming pool with a children’s wading pool. Activities include swimming, fishing, and boating.
Fishing in Main Lake includes largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, redear sunfish, bluegill sunfish, black crappie, and catfish. A state fishing license is required for those over 16. A largemouth bass can only weigh two per day and must be at least 14 inches long. Bluegill sunfish and redear sunfish have no size limit but a daily catch limit of 10. Catfish also have a daily limit of 10. Fishing areas are marked around the lake.
Nearby, the Auburn State Recreation Area, about 15 miles southeast, offers whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Auburn, 15 miles south on Interstate 80, features historic architecture, antique shops, restaurants, and events like the Wild West Stampede and Gold Country Fair. It is known for its mining history and offers a charming small-town experience.
Lake of the Pines is a peaceful community where residents share their surroundings with wildlife such as river otters, turtles, and eagles. The area offers vacation rentals and real estate options for those seeking a scenic, relaxed lifestyle. Whether interested in outdoor activities or tranquil living, Lake of the Pines is a perfect escape.
