Introduction to Lake Elsinore, California
Lake Elsinore, California, in Riverside county, is 15 miles NW of Temecula, California (center to center) and 20 miles S of Riverside, California. It's surrounded by the beautiful Ortega Mountains. The city is popular with residents due to the variety of recreational activities available at the beautiful Lake Elsinore, the year-round mild climate and being close to Orange County and Los Angeles. The bedroom community includes a large number of upper middle-class professionals. The restored downtown features vintage street lamps and attractive window canopies and has the charm of the 1920s.
Lake Elsinore History
During the 18th century the lake was utilized by Spanish ranchers and American trappers. Lake Elsinore became dry during the 1930s and was refilled during the early 1960s. Lake Elsinore was a popular location for numerous Hollywood celebrities during the first half of the 1900s. In 1980 an extensive rain caused the lake to flood which destroyed nearby houses and businesses. After the major flood occurred, an expensive system was created to keep the water level at a consistent level which allowed houses to be constructed near the lake.
Lake Elsinore Attractions
- Lake Elsinore Diamond hosts a variety of special events and concerts.
- Historic downtown antique district is a notable destination.
- Lake Elsinore Outlet Stores location is well known and includes a vast number of popular stores.
- Lake Elsinore features a resort/casino.
- Extreme sports events are popular at Lake Elsinore.
Lake Elsinore Activities
Lake Elsinore is popular most of the year for boating, wind surfing, swimming, fishing, water skiing and activities on the beach. The lake offers beautiful campgrounds. It's a short drive to the scenic Cleveland National Forest. The Elsinore Valley is popular with skydiving enthusiasts due to the well known thermal winds. Excellent opportunities for hiking, bicycle riding and bird watching are available. The Trabuco Canyon Trail and the Chiquito Trail are popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Castle Amusement Park, Pharaohs Lost Kingdom, Scandia Amusement Park and Boomers Family Fun Center are nearby. There are numerous golf courses in the area including Cherry Hills Golf Course, North Golf Course and Colony Country Club. Crystal Cove, Chino Hills, Palomar Mountain and Don Tiburcio Tapia state parks are situated in the area and are popular for a variety of outdoor activities.