Hidden Valley Lake, California

Hidden Valley Lake is a census-designated place (CDP) and gated subdivision in Lake County, California, United States. The population was 5,579 at the 2010 census, up from 3,777 at the 2000 census. Today, it is a CID (Common Interest Development) known as Hidden Valley Lake Association (HVLA).HistoryHidden Valley Lake, CA, was originated and developed by the USA Land Corp. from the late 1960s until 1972. During that time, a dam was constructed across Coyote Creek creating the 102 acre "Hidden Valley Lake." Also during that time several buildings were constructed - clubhouse, cart barn, tennis courts and campground - and the 18-Hole "Billy Bell" golf course was installed. Its original design was as a vacation/recreation retreat. From 1970-72, the Equestrian Center and Country Club were built. 3310 lots were laid out for homes. Another 695 larger lots were also laid out in a nearby area called "The Ranchos." In 1972, USA Land Corp. was bought by Boise Cascade. BC offered model vacation homes, regular homes and vacation rentals. BC promoted the leisure-time and recreational activities available at HVL throughout the Western USA.By 1973, there were 85 homes built. Throughout the 1970s most property buyers were families who planned to eventually build vacation homes. They often made use of the campgrounds. Calpine Corp. began construction of a geothermal power plant several miles to the south. Their workers plus speculators and retirees began to buy lots and build homes in HVL. BC also built a large Marina at the southeast end of Clearlake . BC provided well financially for all the leisure/recreational activities in HVL and also put on low-cost activities, parties and meals for owners: including horse, bike, canoe and paddle-boat rentals. Annual assessments were $70 per year; collection was inconsistent. BC was losing money on developments like HVL and had suffered several class-action-suits. BC turned HVL over to the Hidden Valley Lake Association and its Board of Directors along with a $200,000 starter fund in 1974.