Stretching along the eastern shore of Clear Lake from Cache Creek to beyond Monitor Point, the City of Clearlake was incorporated in 1980. Known as "the Highlands" to longtime residents, the city meanders over hills throughout its 10.5 square miles. Development of the area began in 1922, with walnut orchards a common sight. Some of those original orchards remain today in the Burns Valley area. The city, with a growing population now over 15,000, prides itself as a tourist destination with small-town charm.