The Best Neighborhoods in El Dorado Hills for Backyard Pools (And How to Care for Them)

With over 300 days of sunshine a year and breathtaking views across rolling hills and the Sierra Nevada foothills, El Dorado Hills is a dream location for backyard pool living. But not all neighborhoods are created equal when it comes to pool-friendly properties. In this guide, we explore the best neighborhoods in El Dorado Hills for owning a pool and share essential pool care tips to keep your water clean and inviting year-round.

Whether you're a local homeowner, house hunting in the area, or simply looking to improve your pool’s longevity and cleanliness, this blog has you covered—with expert maintenance advice and reliable sources to guide your decisions.

Blackstone: Resort Living Meets Outdoor Luxury

The master-planned community of Blackstone is known for its energy-efficient homes, sweeping views, and resort-style amenities—including access to the Club at Blackstone. Homeowners here often opt for pools to complement their large, landscaped backyards and panoramic valley views.

Why It's Pool-Friendly:

• Generous lot sizes for luxury poolscapes

• High-end homes often designed with pools in mind

• Elevated terrain and breezy exposures make backyard pools more comfortable during summer heatwaves

Pool Owner Tip: Due to Blackstone’s elevation and exposure to wildfire season, be prepared for fine ash and smoke during the summer and fall. Ash can disrupt pool chemistry and clog filters. Proactively manage these risks by skimming frequently and cleaning filters more often. This wildfire season guide from the Western Fire Chiefs Association offers detailed seasonal insights.

The Promontory: Panoramic Views with Pool Potential

Positioned just north of Highway 50 and overlooking Folsom Lake, The Promontory offers high-end custom homes with expansive yards and sweeping water views. Its tiered lots and open-air exposures are ideal for resort-style pool setups.

Why It's Pool-Friendly:

• Custom home builds with flexible outdoor designs

• Elevated views and ample privacy

• Close to trails, parks, and natural areas

Pool Owner Tip: Wind and dry vegetation in Promontory increase wildfire exposure. As Aqua-Tech explains, wildfire smoke and ash can add organic debris and phosphates to pool water, which may lead to algae blooms. Weekly testing and phosphate treatments can help protect your pool.

El Dorado Hills North: Lakeside, Waterford, and Marina Village

The trio of Lakeside, Waterford, and Marina Village neighborhoods are some of the most established and desirable areas in El Dorado Hills North. Located near schools, parks, and the El Dorado Hills Town Center, these neighborhoods offer mature landscaping, family-friendly streets, and many homes already equipped with pools.

Why It's Pool-Friendly:

• Well-shaded backyards with space for pools

• Family-centric lifestyle with outdoor recreation

• Walkable streets and nearby lake access

Pool Owner Tip: With mature trees comes more leaf litter and organic material. Ogden Pools warns that this buildup can lead to cloudy water, unpleasant smells, and clogged filters. A deep clean may be necessary if water clarity and smell deteriorate.

Serrano (North and South): Elegance with an HOA Advantage

Serrano is one of the most iconic and exclusive gated communities in El Dorado Hills, divided between North (near Serrano Golf Club) and South (family-focused enclaves). Many homes here feature luxury outdoor spaces, including resort-style pools with fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and views of the Sacramento Valley.

Why It's Pool-Friendly:

• Large lots and manicured landscapes

• Many homes custom-built with pools

• HOA standards often support high curb appeal and maintenance

Pool Owner Tip: If your pool smells strongly of chlorine, don’t assume it’s clean. Executive Blue Pools notes that this often indicates chloramine buildup—not freshness. Professional cleaning can restore balance and remove contaminants.

Hidden Ridge: Quiet Hillside Retreat with Backyard Appeal

Tucked into the hills near Silva Valley Parkway, Hidden Ridge offers quiet cul-de-sac streets and semi-custom homes, many with sizable lots and premium backyard builds. While it’s not as widely known as Serrano or Blackstone, Hidden Ridge is gaining popularity for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunset views.

Why It's Pool-Friendly:

• Secluded lots with privacy for backyard pools

• Newer construction with modern layouts

• Views of the surrounding foothills

Pool Owner Tip: Don’t wait until something breaks to call in a pro. Reddit users share stories of pumps making odd noises, foul pool odors, and water chemistry that feels impossible to balance—all signs that deeper maintenance is needed.

Climate Awareness: What Wildfire Season Means for Pool Owners

The PHTA Wildfire Fact Sheet emphasizes how high temperatures, drought, and increased wildfire activity in California can drastically affect pool maintenance. Smoke, ash, and windblown embers introduce fine particulate matter, phosphates, and organic contaminants into pool water, requiring:

• More frequent filter changes

• Use of phosphate removers

• Deep cleanings post-wildfire exposure

If you live in a fire-prone area, proactive maintenance is no longer optional.

Final Thoughts: El Dorado Hills Is Built for Pool Living

From the hills of Serrano to the lakeside charm of Waterford, El Dorado Hills is one of the best places in Northern California to own a backyard pool. Each neighborhood offers unique benefits—from privacy and views to walkable streets and custom designs—but all share a need for regular, professional pool care.

If your pool is starting to look cloudy, smell off, or feel imbalanced, it may be time for more than just a skim. Lakeside Pool Service proudly serves homeowners across El Dorado Hills with expert cleanings, filter care, and maintenance tips tailored to your neighborhood and lifestyle.

Request a free estimate today and keep your pool sparkling clean, all year long.