Lakeland South, WA
County: King
History
Lakeland South is an unincorporated community located in King County, Washington, in the United States. The area originally belonged to Native American tribes, primarily the Duwamish and Muckleshoot tribes, who lived in the region for thousands of years before European settlers arrived.
The European settlement in the area dates back to the mid-19th century when pioneers began to settle in the Puget Sound region. The first recorded land claim in the vicinity of present-day Lakeland South was made by James Jameson in 1872, who established a farm in the area.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area witnessed agricultural growth, with farms and orchards flourishing. The fertile land and proximity to the nearby towns and cities made it an ideal location for farming.
In 1947, the federal government built the Lakeland Village military housing project to accommodate the growing population of industrial workers in the region. The project consisted of hundreds of low-cost homes for workers, and it brought more residents to the area.
Over time, Lakeland South continued to grow as more residential subdivisions were developed. The completion of State Route 167 in 1990 improved transportation access and facilitated further development. Despite being unincorporated, the community has a well-established identity and a vibrant local community.
Today, Lakeland South is primarily a residential area, with a population of around 16,000 people. The community is located in close proximity to the cities of Auburn, Kent, and Federal Way, providing residents with easy access to amenities and employment opportunities.
Lakeland South continues to evolve, with ongoing development projects and efforts to improve infrastructure, including parks, schools, and community services. The area's rich history, coupled with its convenient location and natural beauty, makes Lakeland South an attractive place to live and raise a family.
Attractions
Lake Meridian Park
A beautiful lakeside park with picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and a swimming beach.
Clark Lake Park
Another lakeside park with trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and a boat launch.
Lake Fenwick Park
This park features a lake surrounded by wooded areas, offering walking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and a disc golf course.
Kent Valley Ice Centre
An ice skating facility that offers public skate sessions, figure skating lessons, and hockey programs.
Hogan Park
A neighborhood park with a playground, basketball court, and open fields for outdoor recreational activities.
Kent Station
Located nearby, Kent Station is a shopping center with various stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
Riverbend Golf Complex
A golf course and driving range with beautiful views of the Green River. It also has a restaurant and hosts events and tournaments.
Pacific Raceways
Located a short drive away, this racing facility hosts various motorsport events throughout the year, including drag racing, road racing, and karting.
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden
A short drive from Lakeland South, this garden showcases various species of rhododendrons and other beautiful plants. It also features walking trails and a visitor center.
Starfire Sports Complex
Situated in nearby Tukwila, this sports complex offers soccer fields, a training center, and hosts various sports events and tournaments.
Climate
Lakeland South, Washington experiences a marine west coast climate. This means that it has mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers.
In the winter months, temperatures in Lakeland South average between 35°F (2°C) and 50°F (10°C). While snowfall is relatively rare, it is possible, and the area receives an average of 2-3 inches of snow per year. Rainfall is more common during this season, with December and January being the wettest months.
During the summer, temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) to 80°F (27°C), with July and August being the warmest months. Unlike the winter, rainfall decreases significantly during the summer, resulting in drier conditions.
Overall, Lakeland South experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an annual average of around 38 inches (970 mm). The area also enjoys a good amount of sunshine, with an average of 150 days of sunshine per year.
It is important to note that the climate in Lakeland South can be influenced by its proximity to the Puget Sound and Lake Washington, which can lead to localized variations in weather patterns.
Neighborhoods
Lakeland South is a diverse community located in Pierce County, Washington. It is situated near the city of Auburn and is known for its suburban atmosphere and family-friendly environment. There are several distinct neighborhoods within Lakeland South that offer their own unique characteristics.
Lakeland Hills
This neighborhood is one of the most sought after in Lakeland South. It is known for its newer construction homes, many of which offer stunning views of nearby lakes and mountains. Lakeland Hills also has many amenities for residents, including parks, walking trails, and shopping centers.
Lakeland North
This neighborhood is more established and features a mix of older and newer homes. It offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Lakeland North is home to a variety of parks and recreational facilities, making it a great place for outdoor activities.
Lakeland Park
Located in the southwestern part of Lakeland South, this neighborhood is known for its proximity to beautiful lakes and parks. Many homes in Lakeland Park offer waterfront views or easy access to water activities such as boating and fishing. It is a tranquil area with a strong sense of community.
Lakeland Village
Situated in the eastern part of Lakeland South, this neighborhood consists of both residential areas and a well-established golf course community. Lakeland Village is known for its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained homes, and recreational amenities such as golf courses, tennis courts, and walking trails.
Lakeland East
This neighborhood is located in the southeastern part of Lakeland South and offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. It features a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. Lakeland East is also home to various shopping centers and restaurants, providing convenient access to amenities for residents.
Overall, the neighborhoods of Lakeland South in Washington offer a variety of housing options, recreational amenities, and a sense of community. Whether you are looking for newer developments, waterfront properties, or a peaceful atmosphere, there is a neighborhood in Lakeland South to suit your preferences.