History of the Community

SCDEA Country Living

Our brilliant pioneers (Ray Watt and Chuck LeMenager, among others) envisioned a country-style residential community of unique homes with amenities that included equestrian facilities, a first-rate golf course and lodge, hiking trails, a park, swimming pools, tennis courts and more. In the early ‘70s, they brought that vision to life as the San Diego Country Estates, our hidden gem set among majestic mountains.

Celebrities helped promote initial lot sales, including Casey Tibbs, a famous cowboy, after whom our Western Center is named. Tibbs loved it here so much, he stayed, and held his wedding at Ramona Oaks Park with Roy Rogers as best man. Budd Boetticher, a famous Western movie director, organized equestrian shows and bullfighting events during the ‘70s.

In 1972, the Rotunda was built at the International Equestrian Center, where it is still used for meetings and celebrations. The Weiss House located in Ramona Oaks Park was built in 1920. Named after its original pioneer family, it now serves as the Recreation Center, housing meetings, events and our after-school children’s program. Our Fourth of July community parade has been a hit since 1985, when Marlene Robershaw and Ann Haywood launched the first one.

Today, the Estates consists of more than 3,500 homes and four condominium complexes, while retaining our small-town vibe in a gorgeous natural setting. Amenities have expanded to include pickleball, volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits and dog parks. Community events now offer an Easter egg hunt, the summer concert-in-the-park series, a car show, a Christmas tree lighting with Santa, plus craft and vendor fairs.

SDCE’s benefits include enough activities and amenities to keep it both interesting and relaxing. Best of all, we’re a friendly community full of wonderful folks who care about each other, and still smile at strangers.