Lake in fall

Lake Wildwood Vacation Rentals

Feel the breezy lake air and boat or swim with your family then explore the shops of nearby Grass Valley.

Gold Country's Finest Private Lake Community

Newest

Luxury rentals

Family-friendly

Pet-friendly

Swimming

Why Rent On Lake Wildwood

Lake Wildwood is a 300-acre reservoir in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Nevada County, at the heart of a private, gated lake community that manages its 18-hole golf course, parks, beaches, and recreational programs through the Lake Wildwood Association. The lake is open to residents and their guests, and vacation rentals within the community give visiting families access to everything the association maintains: powerboating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, waterskiing, and a social calendar of concerts and seasonal regattas that give the community its distinct character.

Rent Within the Gates for Full Access

Staying in a vacation rental or cabin within the Lake Wildwood community is the only way for visiting families to access the private lake and its facilities. These properties range from cozy foothill cabins to well-appointed lakefront homes with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and outdoor decks overlooking the water. Many sleeps six to ten guests comfortably, making them ideal for multi-family groups or extended family gatherings. A rental within the gates puts you inside the community’s amenities from the moment you arrive.

Bass, Trout, Powerboating, and Paddleboarding

Largemouth bass and trout are the primary catches on Lake Wildwood, and the managed, low-traffic character of the lake produces healthy fish in consistently productive numbers. Powerboating, kayaking, and paddleboarding all take place on water that sees far less traffic than comparable public lakes, giving every activity a more relaxed, enjoyable quality. The 18-hole golf course adds an optional land-based activity that many guests weave into the rhythm of a lake week.

Seasonal Events and Community Life

Concerts on the lake, seasonal regattas, and the broader social events calendar of the Lake Wildwood Association give guests staying in the community a genuine sense of place and belonging that a public lake simply cannot replicate. The community’s well-maintained parks and beaches create safe, comfortable spaces for kids of all ages, and the overall character of the neighborhood is one of genuine warmth and outdoor enthusiasm.

Grass Valley and Gold Country Just Outside the Gates

Historic Grass Valley, with its Gold Rush architecture and excellent local restaurants, is minutes from the Lake Wildwood gates. Tofanelli’s Gold Country Bistro is a local institution worth a proper dinner visit, and the Nevada City area adds even more cultural and culinary depth to the surrounding region. Lake Wildwood is one of California’s finest private lake community experiences, and the right rental puts your family right in the middle of everything it offers.

Best time to go
In late spring, particularly May, Lake Wildwood unveils its tranquility. Glorious blooms surround the shores, and sunny days, perfected by gentle breezes, invite water sports and serene fishing. Enjoy the calming vistas, as summer crowds linger elsewhere.
Water Quality
Lake Wildwood's water exhibits a deep blue hue, complemented by crystal-clear clarity, offering a pristine and transparent environment for various water activities.
Surface area (mi)
0.73
Max depth (ft)
25
Elevation (ft)
1528.87
Shoreline length (mi)
8

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
pencil

Information not accurate?

Help us improve by making a suggestion.

Marinas on Lake Wildwood

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Wildwood has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are designated swimming areas at Lake Wildwood. Swimming is only allowed within the marker buoys at the two established swimming beaches, and lifeguards are on duty at these designated areas unless otherwise posted.

  • Lake Wildwood is a popular destination because of its various outdoor activities and amenities. It offers a 333-acre lake for boating, fishing, swimming, and water-skiing, along with five lakeside parks, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and hiking trails. The community also features a marina, beaches, and several recreational facilities.

  • There are no restrictions on the hours you can fish in Lake Wildwood, California. Night and day fishing are allowed, and there are no specific hour limitations for this lake. This is because Lake Wildwood is exempt from night fishing restrictions in the Valley District north of Interstate 80.

  • Both East Beach and West Beach at Lake Wildwood are suitable for families. East Beach offers a marina, a concession stand, and a fish cleaning station, while West Beach provides a more secluded setting with picnic tables. Both beaches have watercraft launches and are good for family activities.

  • Towns near Lake Wildwood include Penn Valley, Smartsville, and Grass Valley. These towns are within a short driving distance, with Penn Valley being just 3.20 miles south of Lake Wildwood and Smartsville about 5.59 miles west-southwest.