This area gets more than 300 days of sunshine in an average year, which makes for great weather for golf and other outdoor sports and recreation. Local activities include hiking, camping and fishing in any of several man-made lakes or ponds found throughout the Valley.

Not all gated neighborhoods include resort-style recreational facilities. Most have a community pool and clubhouse but others may not. Some smaller developments offer no more than a playground for the kids or a natural open area where residents can walk their dog.