Big Bear Lake lies in the northern region of the San Bernardino National Forest in southwestern San Bernardino County, California. The City of Big Bear Lake stretches along the lake’s southern shoreline, and the unincorporated area of Big Bear City is east of The City of Big Bear Lake. Bear Mountain, and the Big Bear Mountain Resort are south of the lake.
Big Bear Lake, the lake, sits 6,752-feet above sea level. Big Bear Mountain rises to 8,805-feet above sea level. That does not seem too high, but the LA/OC region elevation ranges from a low 147 to 641-feet above sea level. We will refer to the lake as Big Bear Lake and to the City of Big Bear Lake as such to avoid confusion.
The Big Bear region lives up to its reputation for year-round get aways and vacations. The Big Bear Airport makes it easy to do a fast getaway for sure. It is an entertaining drive from Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Phoenix to Big Bear Lake. The region boasts four distinct seasons, all offering natural experiences.
Big Bear Lake is the jewel of the San Bernardino National Forest. It is known for excellent fishing, outstanding recreational activities that change with the seasons, hosting entertaining seasonal events, and sublime year-round living.
Why is Big Bear Lake so Popular?
Big Bear Lake offers a respite from hectic work-a-day lifestyles close to several big cities. From the snowy, winter magical skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding to spring, bringing on the rainbow trout season, to summer hiking and water sports, to vivid fall maples and oaks and camping, Big Bear Lake is a jewel.
There is something for everyone who loves nature to do every season in the Big Bear Lake region. Some activities are year-round. Miles of ATV, hiking, and mountain biking trails take you through changing landscapes and marvel with panoramic views and wildlife sightings.
Angelinos escape by the thousands to Big Bear Lake from the stifling summers on the Pacific for summer fun in a less oppressive climate and low-key entertainment. A winter wonderland of fun awaits visitors. In spring, Big Bear is the world’s only home to the pebble plains wild flower, with bright dark purple petals.
Is Big Bear Lake Worth Visiting?
People get away to Big Bear Lake during the week for relaxation and on the weekends for recreation, no matter the season. The little City of Big Bear Lake is busting with cafes and restaurants, a dynamic brewery, souvenir shops, boutiques, and art and photography galleries. This town provides for a great stroll during spring, summer, and fall.
Avid outdoor explorers and sports enthusiasts flock to Big Bear Lake and Big Bear Mountain year-round for outdoor recreation and relaxation. About 5,500 people live in and around the City of Big Bear Lake, but its population can grow up to 100,000 on weekends.
The natural world of Big Bear Lake provides habitats for black bears. Black bears are reclusive, and sightings are rare. Bobcats and mountain lions also shy away from human activity there. Grey foxes hunt at night. More common sightings after birds are beavers, chipmunks, coyotes, raccoons, and squirrels.
How Do You Spend the Day on Big Bear Lake?
In the summers, visitors spend their time boating, camping/RVing, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, paddle boarding, mountain biking, picnicking, sailing, wakeboarding, and more. Visitors can rent boats and equipment at the marinas. In the winter, the snow sports begin. Fishing starts in the spring and fall and brings on the colors throughout the Big Bear alpine terrain.
Is Big Bear Lake Clear Water?
A deficit of nitrogen and phosphorous significantly limits algal growth in Bear Lake, which colors its waters clean, clear, and blue.
Is Big Bear Lake Safe to Swim In?
The Big Bear Municipal Water District (BBMWD) manages Big Bear Lake. Except in designated areas and parks, there are no life guards, and swimmers must stay within 50-feet of the shore and 20 feet away from a private dock. Memorial Day through Labor Day is peak season and the best season for swimming.
Yes, it is delightful to swim in Big Bear Lake. The BBMWD has never issued an algae bloom warning for Big Bear Lake. However, there are beneficial algae in the lake that are a part of the aquatic food chain. The BBWMD advises people to shower lake water off of humans and pets after swimming. But it is a cold, alpine lake.
The BBMWD Advises:
Swimmers need to take Big Bear Lake’s water temperature into consideration. “Each year, Big Bear Lake sees tragic drownings. Water temps in Big Bear Lake are colder than you may realize. According to NOAA, survival time is greatly reduced for someone immersed in water below 70°F, which describes Big Bear Lake for most of the year.
“Cold water reduces body heat up to 25 times faster than cold air, and cold water shock can cause immediate loss of breathing control. Roughly 20% of victims die in the first minute of cold water shock. Wearing a life jacket significantly increases the chances of being located and saved.”
Where to Swim at Big Bear Lake
Meadow Park
Several swimming beaches surround Big Bear Lake. Parents can take children to Meadow Park, an ideal park with a lifeguard, water toys, a floating dock, a snack bar, playground, ballparks, and public restrooms. McDill Beach is inside Meadow Park, and charges a small fee to use picnic tables, sandy beaches, and an inflatable slide.
Garstin Island
Garstin Island, aka China Island and Treasure Island, offers wading and swimming among rocks or diving off of rock formations. There are no lifeguards. This island is home to Herbert Garstin’s Oriental-style domicile which was built atop the towering boulders in 1911. Garstin Island is off the southwestern shore of the western tip of Big Bear Lake.
Big Bear Dam aka Old Big Bear Valley Dam
The beach at Big Bear Dam on the northern shore of the lake changes in size according to Big Bear’s water level. You can take a dip right off the shore when the water level is high, and sun on large flat rocks when it is low.
Boulder Bay Park
Boulder Bay Park on the western end of Big Bear Lake attracts canoers/kayakers, fishermen and women, picnickers, and swimmers. This park is popular in fall with a lush green beach.
The East Boat Ramp Beach
This beach is nice for families with young children. The water is shallow and a perfect area for those first swimming lessons.
Big Bear Lake Directions
The first thing to know about getting to Big Bear Lake is do not depend on your GPS. Instead, study maps of the Big Bear Lake Region. Depending on the season, consider traffic conditions, weather conditions, and tire chain requirements.
Three main roads lead to Big Bear Lake, SR 330 to SR 18, through Highland on the west, SR 38, through Redlands, following the north shore of Big Bear Lake, and SR 18, through Lucerne Valley on the northeast. Once at Big Bear Lake, SR 18 runs along its whole southern shore, and SR 38 runs along the entire northern shore.
How Much Does Big Bear Lake Cost?
The cost of a trip to Big Bear Lake depends on what you choose for accommodations and activities. From resort hotel accommodations to primitive camping, you can find something that fits your budget. Campgrounds offer first come, first served, and reservation based camping. Visitors can rent cabins or check in at two ski resorts.
Big Bear Mountain Resort includes Snow Summit Resort in the City of Big Bear Lake. Snow Valley Mountain Resort is a few miles southwest on SR 18. These are expensive, with fees for various activities year-round. Tent and RV sites at seven campgrounds range from $25 to $50 per night. Cabin rentals and vacation homes cost upwards of $100 per night.
Visitors can also book vacation packages at the Big Bear ski resorts. Off season packages are available in spring and fall at Big Bear Lake. Ski season is mid-December to mid-March. Summer invites camping, canoeing/kayaking, water sports, a splash down the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, ziplining, horseback riding, hiking, nine hole golf, and mountain biking.
What Is the Best Month to Go to Big Bear?
At Big Bear Lake, every month is the best month to visit. As stated, the Big Bear Lake region offers stunning and thrilling outdoor entertainment during its four distinct seasons. Big Bear Lake fall and spring seasons offer milder weather and breathtaking views. The vividly hued wildflowers in spring, and the brightly colored oak and maple leaves in fall bring visitors for their showy displays.
Any month is best depending on what activities you like. Go for skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing, and sledding in winter, boating and water sports in summer, or hiking and wildlife viewing in spring and fall at Big Bear Lake. Over 100 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails traverse this mountainous region.
How Deep Is Big Bear Lake?
Big Bear Lake is manmade. Its first Rock Dam was responsible for inundating approximately 9,000 trees in a small, marshy lake where Big Bear lies today. In 1884, the Rock Dam impounded water on over 1,800 acres of land. Frank Elwood Brown, a citrus farmer who needed irrigation, designed and financed the Rock Dam. Big Bear Lake was the largest manmade lake in the world in 1884. ‘
Today, Big Bear Lake has a maximum depth of 72 feet near the dam. It covers 2,971-acres of surface area with a shoreline of 22 miles. Melting snow is one source of water to Big Bear Lake. Bear Creek and Siberia Creek flow into the lake, and Bear Creek flows out of the lake. It is about seven-miles long and an average of 1/2 mile wide, with its widest point at 2.5 miles.
What Do I Need to Know Before Going to Big Bear?
Especially in winter, you need to plan your route and check weather and road conditions before driving to Big Bear Lake, and check them often. Weather can kick up quickly in the winter months at Big Bear. Trips in the mountains take more time in the winter, and you may experience decreased visibility while driving.
There are quite a few winter precautions visitors to the Big Bear region need to observe. First, visitors need to choose the correct winter clothing and gear. Never leave your pets outside alone. They can fall prey to coyotes. Sunglasses and sunscreen are necessary due to snow reflection, which is no joke at Big Bear. Travel precautions are vital in winter.
Caltrans operates the Caltrans Highway Information Network which motorists may call for up-to-the-minute information at (800) 427-7623.
Caltrans Winter Travel and Driving Tips for the Big Bear region:
- Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater, and exhaust system are in top condition.
- Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures. You may want to add special solvent to your windshield washer reservoir to prevent icing.
- Check your tires. Make sure they are the properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.
- Always carry chains when traveling in the winter in the mountains. Make sure they are the proper size for your tires and are in working order. You want to take along a flashlight and chain repair links. Chains must be installed on the drive wheels. Make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive.
- Give yourself extra time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter, especially if you encounter stormy Big Bear road conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes, turn back during a bad storm, or you may be caught in a traffic delay.
- Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnout to use a snow brush or scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog.
- Slow down. A highway speed of 55-miles an hour may be safe in dry weather but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.
- Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles and for snow equipment. Even though snow removal vehicles have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm so that it is difficult to see the slow-moving equipment.
- When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.
- Other suggested items to carry in your car are an ice scraper or commercial deicer, a broom for brushing snow off your car, a shovel to free your car if it’s “snowed in”, sand or burlap for traction if your wheels should become mired in snow, and an old towel to clean your hands.
- It is also a good idea to take along water, food, warm blankets and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them.
- Put an extra car key in your pocket. A number of motorists have locked themselves out of their cars when putting on chains and at ski areas.
Caltrans Chain Control Requirement Levels (Tire Chains):
- W: No Restrictions – Watch for snow on pavement.
- R-1: Chains are required on all commercial vehicles (trucks or buses). All other vehicles (cars, pick-ups, vans, etc.) must have either snow tread tires or chains on the drive axle.
- R-2: Chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel drives with snow tread tires. Four-wheel drive vehicles must carry chains in the vehicle.
- R-3: Chains required – ALL VEHICLES – no exceptions.
Chain Installers
If you use the services of a chain installer, be sure to get a receipt and jot down the installer’s badge number on it. Remember, chain installers are independent business people, not Caltrans employees. Having the badge number may help with any misunderstandings later.
Chain installers are not allowed to sell or rent chains. When removing chains, drive beyond the signs reading “End Chain Control” to a pull-off area where you can safely remove them. The Big Bear City Airport is open 24/7 and is equipped for night landings.
How long Is the Drive Around Big Bear Lake?
A few things to bring on a journey around Big Bear Lake include water, snacks, sunscreen, and a map of the area, plus a camera and binoculars. Check the weather and dress for it. The best place to start is in Big Bear Village, in the heart of the City of Big Bear Lake, and heading east on Big Bear Boulevard/SR 18.
The loop around Big Bear Lake is about 29 miles. East from the City of Big Bear Lake, you come to Stanfield Cutoff, a bridge across the lake and go north, until you reach North Shore Drive/SR 38, and turn west/left. This follows the northern shoreline. When you reach the dam, turn east on SR 18 and you will head back to the Village. There are several interest points along this drive.
Stanfield Preserve: Where Nature Unveils its Majesty
The Stanfield Preserve is a sanctuary for naturalists. You will take in the panoramic views of Big Bear Lake here. This preserve features trails that wind through flourishing forests and leads to captivating vistas, and a boardwalk. It provides an essential habitat for waterfowl with wetlands, marshes, and open water.
Alpine Pedal Path: Strolling Along the Lake Shore
The Alpine Pedal Path beckons with its 3.2-mile paved path hugging the lakeshore. This path is family and dog-friendly, offering majestic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is open to cyclists, joggers, strollers.walkers, and wheelchairs
Discovery Center: Where Exploration Meets Learning
The Big Bear Discovery Center is an educational hub on the local flora, fauna, and history of the Big Bear region. Visitors interact with the environment through exhibits and informative programs. They learn about the region’s ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Fawnskin: A Charming Mountain Hamlet
The charming town of Fawnskin awaits with is its rustic charm and friendly shops on the northern shore of Big Bear Lake with cozy cafes. There are nature trails, Captain John’s Fawn Harbor and Marina, where you can rent boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. For winter, you can lodge at a quaint log cabin B&B, the Inn at Fawnskin.
The Dam: An Engineering Marvel
Big Bear Dam, located on the northern shore of the lake, has a beach that ranges in size according to the water level. The original rock dam still exists today, about 50 yards upstream from the current dam and under about 20-feet of water when the lake is full.
Boulder Bay Park: Last Stop of this Journey
Boulder Bay Park on the southwestern shore of Big Bear Lake offers a serene oasis nestled among picnic areas, a trail, boulders to wonder at, and peaceful lakefront views.
Big Bear Lake Weather
Early June to late September comprises the warmest months at Big Bear Lake for about 3.3 months. The average daily temperature may rise above 74°F, and the hottest month is July at around 81°F. Lows range from the mid-40s to the mid-to-low 50s during these months. Big Bear’s winter season lasts from late November to the first of March.
The coldest winter month is December when lows reach the low 20s and highs of 44°F. The average temperature between April to May ranges from highs in the mid-50s to the upper-60s and lows from the low-30s to the low-to-mid 40s. From mid-October to the end of February, the highs range from the low 60s to the mid-40s, and lows reach from the mid-to low 20s to low 20s.
