History of San Diego Country Estates, California in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 14, 2025

San Diego Country Estates, or "The Estates", is a valley resort community and census-designated place (CDP) located within the unincorporated community of Ramona, in North County, San Diego County, California. It sits northeast of San Diego and southeast of Ramona. As of the 2020 census, the population was 10,395, showing growth from 10,109 in 2010. It's situated east of Poway. The Estates is a collection of neighborhoods within the Ramona area.

1970: Raymond Watt Buys Land

In 1970, Raymond A. Watt purchased 3,250 acres in the San Vicente Valley with plans to develop San Diego Country Estates.

May 13, 1973: Tennis Match at San Vicente Country Club

On May 13, 1973, San Diego Country Estates hosted a tennis match between Bobby Riggs and Margaret Court at the San Vicente Country Club and Golf Course Resort. Riggs defeated Court with a score of 6-2, 6-1.

2000: 2000 Census Data

In 2000, the census reported 9,262 people residing in San Diego Country Estates, with 2,992 households and 2,650 families. The population density was 545.9 inhabitants per square mile. The racial makeup was primarily White (92.92%), with other groups also represented. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 7.70% of the population.

October 23, 2003: Cedar Fire

On October 23, 2003, the Cedar Fire started approximately 3 miles east of San Diego Country Estates in the Cleveland National Forest.

October 21, 2007: Witch Creek Fire

On October 21, 2007, the Witch Fire began near San Diego Country Estates, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents. The Witch Creek fire became the second largest fire in California history.