Mountain Center (MNTC) Real Estate

Welcome to Mountain Center, California – a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque Riverside County. This enchanting mountain community offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a serene lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Mountain Center is situated at an elevation that provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding San Jacinto Mountains. The region is characterized by its lush pine forests, clear blue skies, and crisp mountain air, creating a serene backdrop for your dream home. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, with countless hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and opportunities for wildlife observation right at your doorstep.

This charming community is conveniently located just a short drive from the vibrant towns of Palm Springs and Idyllwild, offering residents access to a rich array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin retreat or a spacious family home, Mountain Center presents a diverse range of real estate opportunities that cater to various lifestyles.

In addition to its scenic beauty, Mountain Center is known for its strong sense of community. Residents enjoy a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, where neighbors become friends and outdoor gatherings are a way of life. With year-round activities, from summer barbecues to winter snow sports, there’s always something to enjoy in this idyllic mountain enclave.

Discover the charm of Mountain Center, where your dream home awaits amidst breathtaking landscapes and a welcoming community. Embrace the mountain lifestyle and make this enchanting region your own!

Newest Listings in Mountain Center (MNTC)

$1,275,000

4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ OC26152947 MLS ⋅ Active Under Contract Status

A horse lover’s paradise where exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design and 4.82 usable acres come together behind an impressive private gated entrance. Meticulously maintained and thoughtfully designed, this single level custom home offers 2,814 square feet with four bedrooms, three full bathrooms and two half bathrooms. The flexible floor plan includes a private guest suite, home office or potential ADU-style space with its own full bathroom, air conditioning and separate entrance, providing an ideal setup for guests, extended family or working from home. Inside, alder cabinetry and doors, custom distressed pine flooring and two Regency wood burning stoves create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The spacious kitchen features an oversized butcher block island, double ovens and a walk in pantry. The primary suite includes a walk in closet, dual sinks and a jetted tub. A large mudroom, laundry room with sink and three car garage with its own half bathroom complete the practical and well planned layout. Designed for the equestrian lifestyle, the property features a 1,850 square foot Castlebrook barn with water and electricity, three stalls with the ability to add a fourth, plus separate hay, tack and workshop rooms. Three fenced pastures with automatic non-freezing waterers and a round pen make the property ready for horses from day one. Mature sequoias, flowering roses and established landscaping provide privacy and beauty throughout the grounds. Additional amenities include RV parking with water and electric hookups, a whole house Generac generator, tankless water heater and an owned 500 gallon propane tank. This rare Mountain Center property offers the space, infrastructure and craftsmanship needed to enjoy a true equestrian lifestyle without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

60021 Hop Patch Spring, Mountain Center

$39,500

OC26151431 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Tucked at the end of a quiet cul de sac in Pinyon Crest, this level 1 acre parcel offers panoramic views of the Santa Rosa Mountains and Toro Peak, plus the rare benefit of backing directly to the San Jacinto National Forest. Sitting above 4,000 feet, the property is surrounded by mature pinyon pines, native high desert landscape, open skies, and miles of natural beauty. Hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing begin right outside your future front door. The lot fronts a private road with utilities available at the street, electricity access, and a private community water source. Septic installation will be required. The HOA maintains the private roads and community wells, helping protect the infrastructure and accessibility of the neighborhood. Design a custom mountain retreat, full time residence, weekend getaway, or hold the land as a long term investment. With privacy, elevation, national forest access, and Palm Desert only approximately 20 minutes away, this is a unique opportunity to enjoy mountain living without giving up convenient access to the desert.

1 Sonora, Mountain Center

$1,979,000

4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 26854917PS MLS ⋅ Active Status

Experience exceptional country living on this spectacular 5+ acre equestrian estate in the heart of Garner Valley. One of the first homesites ever sold in the community, this premier property backs directly onto acres of protected community open space and scenic riding trails. Surrounded by majestic ponderosa pines, breathtaking mountain views, your own private lake with a sandy beach, and a charming Zen playhouse with a viewing deck, the property feels like your own private park! The beautifully remodeled, energy-efficient 3,790-square-foot home has been thoughtfully updated throughout and features four en-suite bedrooms, including two luxurious primary suites, one on the main level and one upstairs. Gorgeous timber-look tile flooring, custom wood craftsmanship, quality finishes, exceptional lighting and abundant natural light create an inviting blend of elegance and comfort. The gourmet kitchen, featuring premium appliances, all recently replaced, flows seamlessly into an office area, casual dining space, and welcoming family room, making it the heart of the home for both everyday living and entertaining. Additional highlights include three fireplaces, elegant formal living and dining rooms, a gracious foyer accessed through the attached porte-cochere, and an approximately 850-square-foot bonus building that can serve as a garage, fitness studio, home office, workshop, artist's studio, or future ADU (subject to approvals). A double-gated curved driveway creates a memorable entrance to this exceptional estate. Outdoor living is equally inviting and impressive, with more than 2,500 square feet of Brazilian slate patios surrounding a private, fully fenced courtyard complete with a spa, mature landscaping, and a whole-house audio system. It is the perfect setting for entertaining or simply enjoying the peace and beauty of the surrounding landscape. Offered fully furnished, this exceptional turnkey estate includes virtually everything needed to enjoy and maintain the property from day one, including furnishings, equipment, tools, and recreational amenities. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, allowing the next owner to move in and immediately embrace the Garner Valley lifestyle while also offering excellent short-term rental potential (subject to local regulations and permitting). New custom window blinds and years of meticulous maintenance reflect the pride of ownership throughout, while still leaving endless opportunities to personalize the estate. Designed for both horse enthusiasts and luxury living, the property features outstanding equestrian amenities, including a six-stall horse barn, two large paddocks, and direct access to miles of riding trails. A 900-square-foot RV garage and workshop provides exceptional flexibility for recreational vehicles, hobbies, storage, or creative pursuits, while the attached 300-square-foot caretaker's quarters or guest suite offers comfortable accommodations for visitors, extended family, or onsite assistance. Offering more than 6,000 square feet of improvements across multiple buildings, over five acres of usable land, exceptional privacy, and premier equestrian amenities, this one-of-a-kind estate presents a rare opportunity to create a luxury family compound, world-class horse property, or private mountain retreat. Lovingly maintained by the same owner for more than 25 years, every aspect of this remarkable property reflects extraordinary care and pride of ownership. Just 30 minutes from Palm Desert and Temecula Wine Country, this is a truly rare offering where luxury, nature, and equestrian living come together in unforgettable fashion.

37030 Tool Box Springs Road, Mountain Center

$282,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ OC26139667 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Opportunity knocks in Pinyon Crest! Situated on over 2 acres (2 parcels) with panoramic mountain views, this custom geodesic home is ready for a complete renovation and is being sold as-is. Featuring approximately 2,420 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, soaring ceilings, a dramatic natural rock fireplace, detached two car garage, and a spacious floor plan, the home offers incredible potential for the right buyer. Bring your contractor, vision, and creativity. The property presents a rare opportunity to restore a one of a kind mountain home in a desirable community with low HOA dues. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and just a short drive from Palm Desert, this property could become an exceptional full time residence, weekend retreat, or investment project. Located in the desirable Pinyon Crest community, residents enjoy the convenience of HOA maintained roads and community wells, making mountain living even more accessible. Just 20 minutes from Palm Desert, you'll experience cooler summer temperatures, peaceful surroundings, and breathtaking mountain scenery while remaining close to world class shopping, dining, and golf. Whether you're looking for your next renovation project, a mountain getaway, or a one of a kind full time residence, this is a rare opportunity to bring new life to an architectural gem.

61740 Rancho Road Unit 235, Mountain Center

$1,999,000

6 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 26669947 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

$950,000

3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ OC26077925 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Tucked away in the scenic beauty of Mountain Center, this private retreat offers the kind of peace, space, and mountain lifestyle that’s getting harder and harder to find. Set on usable land with beautiful natural surroundings, this property feels private and serene while still being within reach of the Coachella Valley. Sitting up on top of the hill, the home takes full advantage of the views looking out over the landscape below. One of the best parts of the property is the large front porch, made for rocking chairs, morning coffee, quiet conversations, and taking in the fresh mountain air at sunset. Built by the current owner and thoughtfully designed for comfortable everyday living, this rare single-story home sits atop the hill and takes full advantage of the breathtaking views overlooking the beautiful Garner Valley landscape below. A walk-up accessible porch, and extra-wide doorways that can accommodate wheelchair access. Inside, the home feels light, warm, and inviting with large windows, abundant natural light, and an open layout that makes everyday living easy and comfortable. The kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry and workspace while flowing naturally into the main living areas, creating a welcoming space for gathering with family and friends. The bedrooms are generously sized and provide flexibility for guests, a home office, or full-time mountain living. Outside is where the property really shines. The usable land offers endless possibilities with a flat area below that would be perfect for a future barn, workshop, additional garage, or expanded outdoor setup. Whether you have horses, animals, toys, or simply want room to breathe, this property gives you the flexibility to create the lifestyle you want. Located within the Garner Valley community, known as an equestrian haven, residents enjoy approximately 26 miles of private horse riding trails, a community arena, round pen, and a community building that brings neighbors together throughout the year. Garner Valley is loved for its wide-open spaces, four-season climate, riding lifestyle, and strong sense of community. Quiet mornings, star-filled skies, and incredible views make this property feel like a true escape from the busy pace of everyday life. A rare opportunity to own a thoughtfully built home in one of Southern California’s most unique mountain communities.

36350 Butterfly Peak, Mountain Center

$435,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ TR26101917 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Private Mountain Retreat Near Lake Hemet – Escape the Desert Heat and Busy City Life! Enjoy peaceful mountain living in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath single-story home at Thomas Mountain Village in beautiful Garner Valley. Situated at 4,500 ft elevation on a ¼-acre lot, this 1,367 sq ft home offers cooler summers, mild winters, and easy access to outdoor recreation while remaining within driving distance of desert amenities. The open floor plan includes a welcoming great room with wood-burning stove, back annex area, cozy dining area, and kitchen. The home features wood floors, spacious bedrooms with ceiling fans, and a dedicated laundry room with washer, dryer, sink, and storage. The spa-style bathroom includes tile floors, a tiled shower and granite countertops. Updates include: • Bosch dishwasher, induction stove, range hood, garbage disposal (2020) • New roof (2022) • Bathroom and all plumbing updated in 2008 Outside, the park-like backyard offers privacy, mature trees, and space to relax, garden or store your RV. The property also includes two storage sheds, one large enough for single-car garage storage. Additional features include: • RV sewer hookup near driveway • Exterior electrical outlets front and back • No Homeowners Association - you will be part owner of a water company • Furnishings available at no extra cost if desired Location Highlights: • 5 minutes to Lake Hemet for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking • 20 minutes to Idyllwild shops and restaurants • Miles of quiet, paved residential roads ideal for biking and strolling the neighborhoods • Nearby hiking trails and access to the Pacific Crest Trail Enjoy a peaceful mountain retreat while still being within reach of desert cities. Approximate Drive Times: • Palm Desert – 40 minutes • Idyllwild – 20 minutes • Temecula – about 1 hour • San Diego – about 2 hours Perfect as a full-time home or weekend escape from the desert heat and the hustle/bustle of city life. Why buy an expensive Garner Valley Estates home when you can get an affordable option in the same location with no HOA.

59307 Courtesy Drive, Mountain Center

$155,000

SW26105737 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Chapman Ranchos 2.25 Acre Desert and Mountain View Parcel ~ Private Water Well! ~ Power Onsite ~ Professional Survey's completed, including 3-D topography map and Corners Clearly Marked ~ No HOA Community ~ Located directly off a Paved Road, close to HWY 74 ~ Awesome Location with milder 4 seasons climate ~ 15 minutes to El Paseo Drive in Palm Desert ~ Near world class Dining, Shopping , Entertainment and Health Care ~ Minutes to the Stagecoach, Coachella famous music venues, the BNP Paribas Tennis Open and some of the Best Golf Courses on the Planet ~ International Film Festivals and great Plays performed in the newly refurbished Plaza Theatre built in 1936 where Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope performed ~ The specific area surrounding this wonderful parcel is home to some of the Best Hiking, Mountain Biking and Rock Climbing ~ You can have it all, gorgeous view build site with most of the preliminary pre-build work completed, close proximity to city conveniences, cooler temperatures and myriads of outdoor adventures awaiting those with an adventuresome spirit ~ Parcel is located directly off the pavement and is mostly Flat and Usable, with huge potential ~ More photo's to come, including drone shots ~ Native Flora and Fauna abound, please wear appropriate hiking attire ~

7 Carrizo Road, Mountain Center

$315,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PW26102305 MLS ⋅ Active Under Contract Status

***1 ACRE RANCH STYLE HOME*** Beautifully remodeled potential horse property. This hidden gem boasts 3 bedroom and 2 bathrooms. The primary bedroom is majestic, and extremely spacious. And with an entertainers kitchen island, this is the perfect place for a permanent or vacation home. This home offers privacy, room to expand, and quiet country living. Conveniently located near the main highway, and fire department. Enjoy the convenient balance of seclusion and accessibility.

63285 Pinyon, Mountain Center

$495,000

NDP2604069 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Own a Once-in-a-Century Opportunity in the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains Discover a rare chance to own a remarkable piece of California history — approximately 280 acres of pristine, undeveloped land that hasn’t been on the market in over 100 years. This incredible property shares a boundary with the San Bernardino National Forest and is surrounded by natural beauty, including nearby campgrounds, hiking and horse trails, and even a natural spring with its own faucet — a rare and valuable feature. With breathtaking forest views perfect for picturesque photoshoots, the setting offers endless possibilities. Nestled within the awe-inspiring Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, this expansive high-desert parcel offers unmatched panoramic vistas, dramatic topography, and total privacy. It’s an ideal site for a secluded estate, off-grid retreat, eco-lodge, or conservation investment. Accessible via Forest Route 7S02, the property is perfectly situated near some of Southern California’s most desirable mountain and desert destinations. Just 15 minutes away is the charming village of Idyllwild, known for its pine-lined streets, vibrant music scene, local cafés, galleries, and seasonal festivals. A 25- to 30-minute drive leads to Palm Desert, where you’ll find luxury shopping along El Paseo, championship golf, fine dining, and resort amenities. Agua Caliente Casino is also nearby, and Palm Springs International Airport is just an hour away for easy access. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the proximity to scenic byways along Highways 74 and 243, the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, Lake Hemet’s fishing and camping, and an endless network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Surrounded by federally protected land and natural beauty in every direction, this one-of-a-kind property offers the rare combination of seclusion, scale, and proximity to key amenities. A blank canvas in one of California’s most stunning and untouched landscapes — ready for your vision.

636 35-0002 Mountain Center, Mountain Center

$379,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 26697111PS MLS ⋅ Active Status

Charming 1953, 2 bed, 1 bath mountain cabin featuring a spacious living room with central AC and heating, brick fireplace, bright bedrooms with custom shelving, and an updated kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances.Enjoy a window-lined sunroom spanning the width of the home perfect for a home office, guest space, or additional living/dining area plus high-speed fiber internet for easy remote work. Laminate wood-style flooring, dual-pane windows, HVAC, and new fencing. Ideally located just minutes from Lake Hemet, 15 minutes to Idyllwild, and under an hour to Temecula and Palm Desert.

59302 Donna Mae Place, Mountain Center

$110,000

OC26053931 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Discover this beautiful 20 acre parcel in the heart of Garner Valley, ideally located on a quiet cul de sac with sweeping panoramic views in every direction. The property offers a rare opportunity to build a private mountain retreat surrounded by natural beauty and open space. Utilities are conveniently available at the street including electric, water, and high speed internet. The land is dotted with Red Fir, Scrub Oak, Pine, and native vegetation, creating a picturesque setting that captures the essence of mountain living. Located within the Garner Valley HOA, residents enjoy access to 26 miles of private equestrian riding trails, an arena, and a community building that hosts gatherings, events, and local activities. The photos shown of the arena and common area highlight the shared amenities available within the community. Whether you envision a custom home, horse property, or peaceful getaway, this exceptional parcel offers the space, views, and lifestyle Garner Valley is known for.

Chimney Rock, 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.