Located almost 7000 feet above the Pacific Ocean in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is just a short drive from most major Southern California locations. Big Bear Lake is an ultimate mountain get a way providing over 300 days of sunshine, a beautiful blue mountain lake and pure winter snowfall.

Big Bear's environment is dominated by pine and oak forest. It sits in a mecca of sunshine and clear air. Average annual temperatures range from a pleasant 56 to 80 degrees in the summer months to 30 degrees in the winter. Precipitation averages about 20 inches per year and snowfall is common during winter months. Big Bear provides habitat for 30 wintering Bald Eagles and 29 species of rare plants.

History: Big Bear Valley was first occupied by the Serrano Indians approximately 3,000 years ago. In 1845, while in pursuit of Indians, Benjamin D. Wilson discovered and named Bear Valley because: "the place was alive with bears!" In 1860, William Holcomb went bear hunting - and discovered gold instead. What followed was Southern California's largest gold rush. Big Bear's first dam, completed in 1884, was soon followed by the Valley's first hotel in 1888. In 1949 the first ski resort opened and Big Bear Lake soon became Southern California's favorite mountain getaway. Hollywood also has a history in Big Bear. Since the filming of: "The Call of the North" in 1914, so many motion pictures have been shot in Big Bear Valley that it has been
called "Hollywood's back lot." "Paint Your Wagon," "The Parent Trap," "Bonanza," "Kissin' Cousins," "Yukon Gold" and "Dr. Dolittle" are just a few of the memorable films that have been shot on location in Big Bear Valley.

 Fun activities range from shopping to skiing and boating to hiking. The area is famous for it's ski resorts, and world class mountain bike racing takes place in the summer. The Big Bear Valley area offers 4 fantastic seasons for camping and hiking. From desert-like conditions to high alpine peaks, the views are endless.
Dining: Big Bear Lake is home to many top notch restaurants serving a complete menu from fine dining to hearty family meals. Shopping: Whether you are looking for souvenirs, gifts, fine clothing, ski outfits, or superb wood carvings, Big Bear Lake’s wide variety of specialty shops will have just the right item.
Lodging: Accommodations are available at all price levels, for all group types from romantic getaways, to family vacations, to large groups planning a skiing or fishing holiday.  Choose from bed & breakfast inns, hotels, lodges, private cabins and condominiums.
Alpine Slide: Try the bobsled track, water slide, miniature golf or orbitron.
Biking: Mountain biking at its best.  Ride Snow Summit’s Sky Chair to the top to reach scenic bike trails, or take the gentle North Shore Bike path.  Bike rental shops equip all skill levels.
Boating: Paddle, pontoon, sail or power boats are rented at local marinas that dot the 23 miles of shoreline framing the lake.  Marinas are open spring, summer and autumn.  Private boat permits are required and may be purchased at any marina.
Camping: U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are found in the national forest.  RV camping is available at specified locations.
Fishing: Large and small-mouth bass, blue gill (sunfish), trout, crappie and catfish are plentiful in Big Bear Lake.  Licenses and supplies may be purchased at sporting good stores and marinas.
Golf: Enjoy a round of golf, April through November, on the regulation nine-hole course at the base of Bear Mountain
Hiking: The forests surrounding Big Bear Lake offer trails for hikers and walkers at all skill levels.  Views range from deep forest to high peaks offering 360 degree views.  Entry into the National Forest is free, but parking requires an Adventure Pass from the U.S. Forest Service.
Horseback riding: Sunset rides are just one of the choices you have from Baldwin Lake Stables. 
Museum: Big Bear Historical Museum is open weekends May through October.  The museum and grounds offer a walk through the colorful and romantic history of Big Bear.
Parasailing: An exciting way to see Big Bear Valley from the sky.
Solar Observatory: One of six observatories in the world.  This one was constructed in Big Bear Lake, because the area experiences more than 300 days of bright sunshine each year.
Tennis: Several local parks offer public tennis courts.
Tours: See Big Bear Valley from all vantage points, by boat, limousine, in off road vehicles, or on a horse.
Water Sports: Boating, windsurfing, board-sailing, water-skiing, and jet skiing. Rentals and private boat launching available at any marina
Winter Activities: Downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and lots of snow play.
Zoo: Moonridge Animal Park is home to the many animals, such as bison, wolves, eagles and bears that have made Big Bear Lake their home.