Neighborhood Overview: Country Village, Lake Pleasant & The 527 Corridor

If you are looking at homes for sale in Bothell, you have almost certainly driven down the "spine" of the city: the Bothell-Everett Highway, locally known as SR 527 or simply "the 527 corridor." This stretch of road is the main artery connecting the business hub of Canyon Park to the historic charm of Downtown Bothell. It is high-energy, high-traffic, and incredibly convenient.

When browsing listings here, you will often see neighborhood labels like "Country Village" or "Lake Pleasant." This can be confusing for newcomers. For decades, Country Village was a beloved collection of local shops and wandering ducks, but that chapter closed in 2019 to make way for new residential housing. Similarly, Lake Pleasant isn't a public recreational lake, but rather a landmark anchored by a well-known RV resort and surrounding homes.

The vibe here is distinct from the quiet cul-de-sacs of North Bothell. This is a commuter’s paradise. You are buying here because you want to be five minutes from everything. The area features a mix of established gated communities and brand-new, high-density townhomes designed for buyers who prioritize location and modern amenities over large yards.

The Country Village Redevelopment: What Exists There Now?

Let’s address the biggest question we get from people returning to the area or browsing older maps. For over 40 years, Country Village was the heart of whimsical shopping in Bothell. It was famous for its iron rooster, local artisans, and free-roaming waterfowl. However, the shops permanently closed their doors in 2019.

Today, the site (located roughly at 23718 Bothell Everett Hwy) has been transformed into a residential subdivision. While the quaint shops are gone, the location itself remains a piece of prime real estate. Developers have utilized the land to build a mix of single-family homes and townhomes that offer modern living right in the center of town.

When real estate agents talk about this area now, they are often referring to this new redevelopment or the adjacent communities. You might see listings for Waterbrook, an established gated community of townhomes right next door, or newer infill projects that have popped up along the highway. While the nostalgia remains, the area has successfully pivoted into a highly desirable residential pocket for those living in Bothell.

Lake Pleasant: RV Resort & Residential Pocket

Another source of confusion for buyers is the "Lake Pleasant" label. If you are looking for a home with a dock for your ski boat, this isn't it. The lake itself is a small, private body of water that serves mostly as a wildlife habitat and a scenic backdrop rather than a public recreation spot.

However, the area is significant for two reasons:

• The Lake Pleasant RV Park: This is a high-end RV resort that is actually a secret weapon for many people relocating to the area. It offers full hookups, catch-and-release fishing, and a wooded setting. We often see buyers stay here for a few months while they get to know the area and hunt for permanent homes for sale in the 527 Corridor.
• The Residential Surroundings: When you see a home listed in the "Lake Pleasant" neighborhood on sites like Zillow or Redfin, it usually refers to the townhomes and detached condos that surround the park. Residents here enjoy the "green buffer" provided by the park’s trees and water features, offering a sense of nature despite being right off a busy highway.

Real Estate on the 527 Corridor: Townhomes & Infill

Because land is at a premium along the Bothell-Everett Highway, you won't find many sprawling ramblers on acre lots here. The housing stock is defined by density and efficiency. This is where you look if you want a low-maintenance lifestyle.

New construction in Bothell is heavily concentrated along this corridor. A prime example is 30 Degrees by Pulte Homes. These are modern, three-story townhomes designed to maximize square footage. They appeal to buyers who want new appliances, modern warranties, and zero yard work.

If you prefer something slightly more established, Waterbrook is a staple of the corridor. Built around 2008, this gated community offers a mix of townhomes and detached condos. Prices in this corridor are generally more approachable than the premium costs you might find in Downtown Bothell or nearby Kirkland. It is a popular landing spot for tech workers commuting to the biotech hubs in Canyon Park or Redmond who find themselves priced out of single-family detached markets.

Living on the Corridor: Commute & Amenities

Living directly on or near SR 527 comes with a clear trade-off: you get unmatched convenience in exchange for dealing with traffic.

• Traffic Reality: We have to be honest—SR 527 is busy. Rush hour congestion is significant between I-405 and Downtown Bothell. If you buy a home with a driveway entering directly onto the highway, getting out during peak hours takes patience.
• Convenience: The upside is that you are centrally located. You are typically a 5-minute drive north to the Canyon Park Neighborhood Profile area (home to PCC, Rite Aid, and major employers) and a 5-minute drive south to the restaurants and Pop Shops of Downtown Bothell.
• Transit: If you want to ditch the car, this is one of the best spots in the city. The Swift Green Line (Bus Rapid Transit) runs along this corridor, making it easy to commute to Canyon Park or connect to lines heading into Seattle or Bellevue.
• Local Favorites: You don't always have to drive downtown for coffee. Spots like 527 Coffee offer drive-thru convenience, and several side streets connect you to the Sammamish River Trail system for biking and running.

School District & Education

One of the primary drivers for real estate values in this area is the school district. Residents along the Country Village and Lake Pleasant corridor are served by the Northshore School District, which is consistently highly rated and a major draw for homebuyers.

While school boundaries can change and you should always verify based on a specific address, many homes here feed into Frank Love Elementary or Canyon Creek Elementary, and eventually Bothell High School. Additionally, the location is just north of the shared campus for UW Bothell and Cascadia College, making it a strategic location for students and faculty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Country Village Shops in Bothell still open?

No, the Country Village Shops permanently closed in 2019. The site has been redeveloped into a residential community featuring new homes and townhomes, though the location is still fondly referred to by its historic name.

Can I live at Lake Pleasant RV Park permanently?

Lake Pleasant is an RV resort, not a mobile home park, so it is designed for temporary stays and vacations. However, they do allow long-term stays, making it a popular option for people relocating to Bothell who need a place to live while house hunting.

Is the 527 Corridor a good place to buy a home?

Yes, if you prioritize convenience and modern housing over quiet seclusion. It is an excellent location for commuters and those wanting close access to amenities, but buyers should be prepared for road noise and rush-hour traffic on the main highway.

What new home communities are on the 527 Corridor?

The most prominent new additions include the redevelopment of the Country Village site and 30 Degrees by Pulte Homes. You will also find various smaller "infill" projects where developers have replaced older homes with small clusters of modern townhomes.