Lake Sherwood

The history of Lake Sherwood is a transformation from a cinematic backdrop to an exclusive residential enclave. Originally a small natural lake, its identity was forged in 1922 when it served as the filming location for Douglas Fairbanks' silent epic, "Robin Hood," lending the name Sherwood Forest to the oak-studded valley.

The area's modern form took shape in the 1960s with the construction of a dam that significantly enlarged the lake. This evolution culminated in the 1980s when the community was developed into a luxurious, guard-gated community anchored by the prestigious Sherwood Country Club and its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, solidifying its reputation as one of Southern California's most desirable private communities.

While Lake Sherwood is a private, guard-gated community with amenities primarily reserved for residents and their guests, the area's attractions revolve around a luxurious, recreational lifestyle.

Private (Resident-Only) Activities

• Sherwood Country Club: This is the centerpiece of the community. It's a world-renowned private club featuring a championship 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, a beautiful Georgian Colonial-style clubhouse, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and fine dining. Membership is separate from homeownership.

• Lake Activities: The 165-acre lake is the community's main attraction. Residents can enjoy electric boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing for bass and catfish. The lake is strictly for private use, with boat docks available for lakefront properties.

• Tennis & Swim Club: A separate facility within the community offers additional tennis courts and a pool for club members, fostering a very active and social environment.

Nearby Public Attractions

While you cannot access the lake or country club without being a resident or guest, the surrounding area offers beautiful scenery and activities:

• Scenic Drives: Driving on Potrero Road, which runs along the southern edge of Lake Sherwood, offers stunning (though distant) views of the lake, the dramatic surrounding hills, and the impressive estates.

• Hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains: The area is a gateway to numerous public trails. The Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center and the trailhead at Rancho Sierra Vista are just a short drive away, offering access to the Boney Mountain State Wilderness and Point Mugu State Park for excellent hiking.

• Malibu Creek State Park: Located nearby, this park was also a famous Hollywood filming location and offers extensive trails for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the rugged landscape.

Lake Sherwood's "vibe" is the ultimate in secluded, old-world luxury and profound privacy. It's an exclusive enclave where life happens behind guard gates, creating an atmosphere of quiet formality and manicured perfection.

The community feels less like a typical neighborhood and more like a private, five-star resort. The lifestyle is centered on discreet, high-end recreation—championship golf at the world-renowned country club, boating on the serene private lake, and tennis matches among neighbors. It’s intensely private, exceptionally beautiful, and operates with an air of quiet prestige that sets it apart even from other affluent communities nearby.