Mountain Center Real Estate

Welcome to Mountain Center, California – a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque San Jacinto Mountains of Riverside County. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and serene atmosphere, Mountain Center offers a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

This charming community is characterized by its stunning mountain vistas, lush pine forests, and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind, Mountain Center provides a wealth of activities to explore. The nearby trails lead you through enchanting wilderness, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The iconic Idyllwild area is just a short drive away, where you can enjoy art galleries, quaint shops, and delightful dining options.

Mountain Center is not just about the great outdoors; it also boasts a tight-knit community spirit. Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle, surrounded by nature yet conveniently located near larger towns for shopping and amenities. The area is perfect for families, retirees, and anyone looking to embrace a slower pace of life while still having access to modern conveniences.

With its diverse real estate options ranging from cozy cabins to spacious family homes, Mountain Center is an ideal place to plant roots or invest in a vacation getaway. Imagine waking up to the sound of chirping birds and the scent of fresh pine, all while being just a short drive from the vibrant culture of Palm Springs and the stunning landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park.

Discover the charm of Mountain Center, where the beauty of nature meets a welcoming community. Your dream home in this serene mountain retreat awaits!

Newest Listings in Mountain Center

$798,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 219153496PS MLS ⋅ Active Status

A rare opportunity to own a lovingly restored piece of Palm Springs-area mid-century modern history. Designed and built in 1963 by renowned architectural designer John P. Moyer, this distinctive Pinyon Crest residence captures the spirit of classic desert modernism while offering thoughtful contemporary upgrades, exceptional privacy, and sweeping Santa Rosa Mountain views.The 1,994-square-foot property includes a 1,682-square-foot 2-bedroom, 2-bath main residence with a light-filled living room, clerestory windows, office and den, plus a separate 312-square-foot 1-bedroom, 1-bath casita/ADU. Extensive renovations have thoughtfully restored and modernized the property, including a new roof, windows, doors, interior and exterior paint, HVAC system, furnace, water heater, and well pump. Original fireplaces have been restored, including the iconic freestanding conical Fire Hood designed by architect Wendell Lovett. The updated kitchen features custom-selected BlueStar appliances, including a dual-fuel range with indoor grill and professional ventilation hood, creating a sophisticated focal point for cooking and entertaining. Warm wood interiors and expansive glass connect the home to its dramatic high-desert setting. The primary bath offers a steam sauna, while a separate dry infrared sauna with color-light therapy provides an additional wellness retreat.The private casita features a wall desk, dual-zone wine and beverage refrigerator, and its own patio overlooking the mountains--ideal for guests, a home office, studio, or creative retreat. A detached 2-car garage provides additional convenience.Situated at approximately 4,000 feet in the secluded private community of Pinyon Crest, the property enjoys more than three acres of privacy, protected open space, and remarkable mountain scenery. Owned solar, propane, a security system, and EV charging powered by the solar system add modern functionality.Pinyon Crest has long attracted notable residents: Frank Sinatra, Denny Miller, Tom Selleck, Richard Dreyfus, Katherine Hepburn and Johnny Weissmuller (Tarzan), adding to the area's rich desert history. With its architectural pedigree, restored mid-century character, guest casita, acreage, and breathtaking mountain views, this is an exceptional opportunity to experience privacy, nature, and timeless desert modernism just above the Coachella Valley.

70075 San Lorenzo Road, Mountain Center

$110,000

OC26206285 MLS ⋅ Active Under Contract Status

Discover the possibilities on this 2.1-acre property in Pinyon, featuring flat, usable land and much of the groundwork already in place. The property is equipped with electric, septic, and a private well with newer well equipment, offering a great head start for your future plans. Additional improvements include RV storage, a small building structure, and two storage sheds, providing useful space for equipment, recreational toys, tools, or additional storage. Located approximately 20 minutes from Palm Desert, this property offers the opportunity to enjoy cooler mountain temperatures, open space, privacy, and a peaceful setting while still remaining convenient to the desert below. The flat, usable acreage provides flexibility for a future home, outdoor living, recreational use, or additional improvements, subject to buyer verification and local requirements. Whether you are looking for land for a future home, weekend retreat, or simply additional space to spread out, this property offers infrastructure, acreage, and versatility that can be difficult to find. Enjoy the quiet, the views, and the slower pace of Pinyon living while staying within easy reach of Palm Desert, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. Buyer to verify all utilities, structures, permits, property boundaries, zoning, and intended uses to their satisfaction.

62525 Pinyon Drive, Mountain Center

$30,000

219153148DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Set along a quiet cul-de-sac between Palm Canyon Drive and St Maurice Drive, this beautiful one-acre parcel offers a rare opportunity to create the lifestyle you've been imagining. Surrounded by natural beauty, peaceful mountain scenery, and open skies, the property provides an ideal setting for a custom home, weekend retreat, vacation rental, or investment opportunity.Enjoy the best of both worlds. Spend your days immersed in nature with nearby access to Lake Hemet for fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, and hiking. When you're ready for dining, entertainment, or shopping, Palm Desert is just a scenic drive away, offering world-class restaurants, luxury shopping, concerts, professional tennis tournaments, and sporting events.Whether you prefer the tranquility of the mountains or the conveniences of city life, the choice is yours. The generous acreage may also accommodate equestrian use, making this property an appealing option for those seeking additional flexibility and outdoor enjoyment.A peaceful mountain setting, convenient access to recreation and amenities, and endless possibilities await on this exceptional one-acre homesite.Surveyed and fenced vacant lot with an existing electric meter on site (buyer to verify activation requirements). Water well is located nearby.

St Maurice, Mountain Center

$65,000

219153134DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Set within the peaceful mountain community of Mountain Center, this high-desert parcel presents an exceptional opportunity to create a private retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Enjoy a quiet and tranquil setting while remaining conveniently close to Palm Desert's renowned shopping, dining, golf courses, and entertainment. Ideal for a custom dream home, weekend escape, second residence, or vacation rental, the property offers the flexibility to bring your vision to life. Experience the best of mountain living with easy access to the amenities and attractions of the desert below. A rare opportunity to own land in a location that combines privacy, scenery, and convenience.

Carrizo Road, Mountain Center

$35,000

219152815DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Mountain Living Awaits in Mountain CenterDiscover the opportunity to own 0.59 acres of residential land in beautiful Mountain Center, California--a peaceful mountain community where fresh air, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life come together.Imagine building your dream home surrounded by towering trees, mountain landscapes, and the tranquility of nature, while still being within convenient driving distance of the Coachella Valley. Whether you're looking to create a full-time mountain residence, weekend getaway, or private retreat, this property offers a blank canvas for your vision.Enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful mountain living with the conveniences of the valley within reach. Wake up to crisp mountain air, spend your days enjoying the outdoors, and come home to a place where you can truly unplug and unwind.Opportunities to own land in a beautiful mountain setting don't come around every day. They aren't making any more land--don't miss your chance to secure your own piece of Mountain Center and build the home you've been dreaming of.

Redwood Drive, Mountain Center

$325,000

SW26198022 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Totally Private 144.45 Acre Private Retreat set amongst stunning natural beauty, outstanding mountain and desert floor views, conveniently accessed directly off the Palms to Pines Scenic Highway 74, only 15 minutes up from Palm Desert ~ Perfect private area's to set up base camps for all the Coachella Events, with outstanding Hiking and Mountain Biking ~ Enjoy year round milder temperatures at an average 4,000' elevation ~ The acreage consists of 2 separate APN's allowing endless opportunities ~ There are many choice building sites, dotted with gorgeous "nature scape" including native Pinyon Pine Trees, awe inspiring rock formations and beautiful natural desert vegetation ~ The 2 conjoining parcels are almost entirely surrounded by USA Forest Service Land, just south of the Pinyon Crest Community, on the north side of the Highway ~ These parcel's of varied elevation's and terrain are know by many for being one of the best Mountain Biking, Hiking and general Outdoor Adventure and Exploration areas, perfect to set up your own base camp for family and friends ~ Dark night sky's, unpolluted by city lights, allow for unsurpassed viewing of the myriads of stars, constellations, planet's and far off galaxies ~ Close to the Coachella and Stagecoach music festival's and the many first class events hosted in the Desert Communities ~A wonderful spot on earth to secure as a Multi Family Legacy Property ~ APN # 636-100-002 & APN # 636-100-009 are to be sold together and close concurrently ~ Property is in a "good water" area, will need a well, and septic, power runs across property ~Buyer, buyer's agent to conduct their own due diligence in regard to county permits and requirements in developing said parcels ~

Hwy 74, Mountain Center

35849 Butterfly Peak Road, Mountain Center

$1,999,000

5 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 26934303 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Exceptional opportunity to own this unique, stunning, custom-built mountain retreat. Nestled on 5 acres in the peaceful Garner Valley countryside, this gorgeous turnkey estate features the finest materials & meticulous attention to detail. Property includes a main house with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, detached guest quarters, and a newer, expansive 3,600sqft custom metal barn. Main home exudes elegance from the grand porte-cochre entrance, leading into a custom oversized front door. Chef's kitchen boasts custom cabinetry, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast bar that opens to an impressive living room with soaring vaulted ceilings, a custom wood-burning fireplace, and a mantel, perfect for both entertaining and relaxing. French doors from the living room open onto a newly built 400 sqft deck, where you can take in breathtaking mountain views and enjoy the cool, fresh air. Primary suite, located on the ground level, features newer carpet, a spacious closet, a private office, and leading to a large enclosed dog run. With high-speed fiber optic internet throughout the property (300/300 Mbps), working from home is a breeze. Additional features of the home include a new high-end standing seam metal roof, a lofted game room, central heating and air, 400-amp electrical service, custom-forged light fixtures, and a 3-car deep garage. Detached guest quarters offer 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, vaulted ceilings, and a private balcony overlooking the beautiful grounds. For hobbyists or car enthusiasts, a newly paved 300+ ft long driveway leads to the fully insulated 40' x 90' metal barn. This impressive space includes high ceilings, 23 windows, epoxy floors, an alarm system, large industrial fans, a 125-amp electrical panel, and a 14x16 ft roll-up door, making it perfect for cars, RVs, boats, or motorcycles. Additional property features include a spacious pergola with an outdoor dining area, a shed or crafting space, two paved driveways, and much more. This enclosed estate offers an unparalleled level of privacy and a range of amenities that will appeal to even the most discerning buyer. Located just a short drive from Palm Desert, Idyllwild, Temecula's wine country, Lake Hemet, and San Diego, this serene mountain retreat provides the perfect balance of seclusion and access to city amenities. Plus, enjoy 26 miles of private horse, hiking, and biking trails right outside your doorstep.

35849 Butterfly Peak Road, Mountain Center

$925,000

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 219152136DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Enjoy this spectacular mountain estate comprised of five parcels for a total of 8.57-acre equestrian-friendly land in the heart of Mountain Center, just 20 minutes from South Palm Desert. Why board your horses when you can wake up with them? With no HOA, your own private well, and 5 stall horse stables, this remarkable estate offers true independence, unmatched serenity, cooler desert air, and valley-wide views. The multi-level main residence captures the essence of mountain living, featuring expansive glass windows that frame endless vistas. A chef's kitchen appointed with granite countertops, double ovens, and dual sinks is ideal for gathering and entertaining. The home offers four bedrooms, including two ensuite retreats and a guest bedroom. The fourth bedroom/apartment is located on the lower level with its own private entrance and features to a fully equipped apartment, complete with a living room, kitchenette, one bedroom, one bathroom, a mini-split system, and washer and dryer. This flexible space is ideal for multigenerational living, caretaker's quarters, or potential rental income. An expansive outdoor deck off the dining area provides the perfect setting for stargazing evenings, peaceful mornings with coffee, or lively weekends hosting family and friends. Equestrian enthusiasts will appreciate the five-stall stable with paddock, tack room, feed room, lighting, and running water, ready to welcome your horses. Additional highlights include a large detached three-car garage/workshop, a 420-foot privately owned well, and a daylight basement flex space currently used as a gym. The upper lot features a flat, graded area with electrical and water hookups supporting 4-RV parking spaces. The southern boundary is owned by Friends of the Desert Mountains, a nonprofit dedicated to conservation, education, and research, helping preserve the property's privacy and natural beauty. Adding to its uniqueness, the property was once the mountain retreat of Hollywood entertainer Red Skelton, who enlisted renowned architect Albert Frey to remodel the home. Original plans remain on file at the Palm Springs Art Museum, underscoring the home's architectural legacy. Whether you envision a self-sustaining homestead, an equestrian lifestyle, or a peaceful private escape, this is a rare opportunity with historic significance, and endless possibilities.

67079 Ribbonwood Drive, Mountain Center

$339,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ CV26191727 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Appointment only for now. Easy to show. Beautiful cabin with Casita for sale. 25 minutes from Palm Desert and 30 minutes from Idyllwild. Two cabins on one lot. Absolutely gorgeous views of the mountains. The main house has been expanded inside and now has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, indoor laundry room with a lot of storage room. Gorgeous fireplace. On the side of the house is a second building called the "Casita" with bedroom,/living area, bathroom and storage/workshop. New windows throughout, well water treatment, fully fenced with a private well on property, septic tank, and propane tank. Central cooling and heating. The property sits on 11,761 square feet lot size. You can live in the main house and rent the Casita. Tons of possibilities and lots of opportunities to make life very enjoyable.

69777 Sugarloaf, Mountain Center

$250,000

219151941DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

**In sunny Southern California, discover an exceptional opportunity to create your own private desert mountain retreat.** Lots 25 & 26 are two contiguous, exceptionally private panoramic-view parcels totaling approximately 5 acres, nestled along the mountainside within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto National Monument.Situated in the gated community of Chapman Ranchos--*'Above the roast line, below the frost line'*--the property sits at approximately 3,400 feet in elevation, offering cooler temperatures and a peaceful escape from the desert floor. The parcels are adjacent to U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management properties, providing an incredible sense of privacy, seclusion, and access to the surrounding natural landscape.Take in breathtaking panoramic views across the Coachella Valley, spectacular day and night vistas, dramatic boulder outcroppings, and views of the historic surrounding mountain peaks. Imagine enjoying both sunrise and sunset from your own private mountain retreat.Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of nearby hiking and opportunities to explore the surrounding open space. Underground utilities are available, including fiber-optic internet through the local electric cooperative, and a share in the community water system is included. **No HOA fees.**Whether you envision building a one-of-a-kind architectural desert retreat, creating a private getaway, or holding an exceptional piece of land as an investment, this rare offering provides an opportunity to own approximately 5 acres in a truly special setting--peaceful and secluded, yet conveniently located only about 12 miles from Palm Desert and Palm Springs and their renowned dining, shopping, entertainment, and resort amenities. ***Financing available for as little as 15% down. Call for details!***

Avenida Los Feliz, Mountain Center

$310,000

IV26188562 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Discover nearly 20 acres of usable, gated land at 44305 Broken Wheel Trail in Anza, offering privacy, wide-open space, and impressive improvements already in place. The property features two graded, build-ready pads, each with utility hookups, providing an excellent head start for your future home, retreat, or recreational property. Two 40-foot trailers provide abundant storage, while the area between them has been transformed into a functional outdoor living and entertaining space. Enjoy an outdoor kitchen complete with refrigerator, sink, and BBQ, along with a convenient bathroom featuring a sink and flushing toilet while you dream up the plans for your dream home! Spend your evenings gathered around the outdoor fire pit beneath Anza’s spectacular star-filled skies. Additional property features include a private shooting range, approximately 7,700 gallon water storage silo, gated access, and plenty of room for RVs, recreational vehicles, animals, equipment, and more. With nearly 20 acres to call your own, and much of the groundwork already completed, this unique property offers an exceptional opportunity to create your dream home, weekend getaway, ranch, or private desert retreat. Enjoy the peace and quiet of country living, beautiful surrounding scenery, and the freedom that comes with owning your own expansive piece of Southern California.

44305 Broken Wheel, Mountain Center

$47,500

219151824DA MLS ⋅ Active Status

Build your dream home on this 1.03 acre corner lot in the sought after luxury Pinyon Crest community overlooking the stunning Santa Rosa Peak and surrounding mountain ranges. HOA includes fresh and clean water well replenishment/distribution, expertly graded private roads throughout the community for vehicle ease to & fro, remote control for security gate that runs from 27 Scenic down to Highway 74, private mailbox, and more amenities. Roads are professionally cared for by a resident mechanic operator. Pinyon Crest reside on a National Monument wildlife preserve where you can feed bluebirds with your hands, see cottontail rabbits hopping along, roadrunners, and others. Peaceful location under starry night skies with close proximity to Palm Desert (about a twenty minute drive) and San Diego county. Temperatures are 15-20 degrees cooler than the Palm Desert floor. Perc test passed 2023. Come take a look and fulfill the dream.

27 Scenic Drive, Mountain Center

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Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of . This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.