Chain of Lakes

 

Welcome to the Chain of Lakes, a hidden gem in the northern suburbs of the Twin Cities where serenity, luxury, and outdoor adventure converge. Located just 20 minutes from both St. Paul and Minneapolis, this tranquil pocket of Centerville and Lino Lakes offers one of the most unique and coveted waterfront lifestyles in Minnesota. Centered around three navigable lakes — Centerville, Reshanau, and Peltier — this area is all about preserving natural beauty while embracing the elegance of lakeside living.

At the heart of it all lies Centerville Lake, the true crown jewel of the chain. With only around 60 homes and approximately 450 feet of shoreline per lot, this lake is an ultra-exclusive enclave for those who want privacy, access, and prestige. Thanks to proactive environmental management, including regular algae treatments, the water remains clean and clear, perfect for boating, swimming, and water skiing. In fact, it’s home to the beloved Bald Eagle Water Ski Show, where families have made lifelong memories performing and spectating. Whether you're drawn by the water, the new construction, or the opportunity to invest in a rapidly developing lakefront area, Chain of Lakes offers an unmatched lifestyle just outside the metro.

 

The lifestyle at Chain of Lakes is defined by rhythm — of the seasons, the water, and the community. Summer days begin with coffee on the dock and end with sunset pontoon rides. Winters bring out the hockey rinks and snowshoe paths, with kids playing outside and adults enjoying bonfires by the frozen shoreline. It’s a place where people wave from their yards, help each other launch boats, and gather for Thursday night festivities in Centerville. The lakes are the anchor, but it’s the people and pace of life that give this area its magic.

 

The Chain of Lakes area is largely residential, and that’s exactly its appeal: no big-box stores or busy commercial centers to disrupt the peace. However, just a short drive away in Lino Lakes, North Oaks, and Hugo, residents have access to high-quality shopping and dining that blends convenience with luxury. Think boutique coffee shops, locally-owned restaurants, and thoughtfully curated retail options; close enough to enjoy but far enough to keep the lakes quiet and secluded.

For everyday essentials, nearby White Bear Lake and Shoreview offer a wider selection of stores, from upscale grocers to fashion and home decor. But most residents of the Chain prefer to spend their weekends grilling on the deck, hosting lakefront dinners, or taking the boat out for a floating picnic. This isn’t a neighborhood built around commerce — it’s built around connection: to nature, to neighbors, and to home.

 

Life on the Chain of Lakes is full of simple pleasures and family-friendly fun. From the annual Bald Eagle Water Ski Show to casual neighborhood get-togethers, the calendar here reflects a love of the outdoors and community spirit. Boating, swimming, and tubing fill warm days, while winter brings ice hockey and sledding just steps from your back door. The local park system is expansive, with trails winding through Rice Creek Reserve, offering quiet places to walk, run, or bike year-round.

Development in the area has brought in beautiful new construction homes designed to reflect classic Minnesota style — Scandinavian influences, natural stone, expansive glass, and open-concept layouts with indoor-outdoor flow. Whether you're restoring a lakeside original or designing a custom build with water views in every room, the architectural style here is evolving, sophisticated, and deeply rooted in the lake lifestyle.

 

Families living in the Chain of Lakes area have access to the highly regarded Centennial School District, anchored by Centennial High School. Known for its strong academic performance and well-rounded extracurricular offerings, the district is a draw for families prioritizing both education and lifestyle. From STEM programs to competitive athletics, Centennial provides the kind of support that complements the active, engaged, and connected life families build here on the lake.