Our family made our first trip up to Big Bear in late July, and the heat was pretty intense--even…read morefor being up in the mountains! Renting a boat from Big Bear Marina turned out to be the absolute highlight of our trip and far exceeded our expectations. We rented for an hour and a half to cruise around the lake, and the cool breeze out on the water was an instant relief from the hot weather. Even our two teenagers didn't complain once--which is a major win! They thoroughly enjoyed the ride and loved connecting to the Bluetooth speaker the marina provided so they could play their own music. It set such a fun vibe that I even found myself trying to dance on the boat (much to everyone's amusement). The heat eventually drove us home a day early, but this boat ride made the trip worthwhile. It's the one thing we'll definitely do again the next time we visit Big Bear!

We traveled approximately 100 miles round trip and planned our stay in Big Bear specifically around…read morerenting a pontoon boat from Big Bear Marina. Although both the $490 rental and $250 security deposit were ultimately returned in full, the experience was disappointing and revealed a serious lack of preparation for inclement weather. Our original reservation was Sunday, September 6 at noon. It was raining heavily, but we arrived on time and were prepared to honor the reservation. We understood the marina's stated policies regarding weather, refunds, and 24-hour notice. The issue was not simply that it was raining. The marina expected customers to accept the consequences of the weather while appearing unprepared to provide the rental in those same conditions. The pontoon and its seats were soaking wet. Its overhead cloth covering provided absolutely no protection, and the marina did not even have towels available to dry the seats. When we asked for one, an employee suggested "use a life vest to cover the seat." We were also instructed not to go right after leaving the marina and told that, because of the heavy fog, we should remain in the middle of the lake. Being advised to limit our movement because visibility was so poor did not inspire confidence that the conditions were appropriate for boating. At the marina's suggestion, we moved our reservation to 2:00 p.m. because the rain might let up. We returned on time, but it was still pouring and nothing had improved. Rather than abandon the experience, we extended our lodging at additional expense and rescheduled for Tuesday, September 8 at 11:30 a.m. When Tuesday's forecast called for thunderstorms, we called at 9:00 a.m. Monday--more than 24 hours in advance--to cancel while complying with the stated policy. A dock worker had told us that mountain weather is unpredictable, which was exactly why we chose the safer option before the deadline. That decision proved reasonable: Tuesday brought thunder, lightning, heavy rain, and flooding in the area. Unfortunately, the cancellation call with Sadie was unnecessarily contentious. My wife explained that we understood the policy, had arrived twice prepared to use the boat, had repeatedly rescheduled, and had extended our stay specifically to make the rental happen. Sadie argued with her, refused her request to speak with a manager, and said the system would not allow her to issue a refund. Even arguing that "My app doesn't show rain for tomorrow" After a prolonged discussion, Sadie said, "You know what, I don't have time for this. I will just refund it," and immediately hung up. The refund was then processed. We appreciate that everything was returned, but the contradictory information, refusal to involve a manager, and abrupt hang-up were not professional. This trip also held personal significance. It was our first getaway since my wife underwent emergency spinal and femur surgeries related to Stage IV cancer. Walking can still be difficult for her, so repeatedly navigating rain, mud, gravel, slippery surfaces, and a floating dock was not just a minor inconvenience. We did not disclose her condition or request special treatment because customers should not have to reveal private medical circumstances to receive basic preparation, clear communication, and reasonable consideration for safety. We made every effort to make this rental work. We traveled specifically for it, arrived on time twice despite the rain, accepted multiple reschedules, extended our stay, followed the cancellation policy, and prioritized safety when thunderstorms were forecast. Big Bear Marina ultimately refunded us, which was the correct resolution. However, a business with a strict weather policy should also have a clear, practical plan for serving customers--or responsibly accommodating them--when that weather arrives. We now have no reason to ever return to Big Bear.

Cute. Lil Mountain Park before you head down the mountain back to the city. Park has some tree…read moreshade, nice green grass to set your blankie on and enjoy the fresh air, have a picnic or people watch. Doggie, pet friendly. Clean restrooms. If you feel like dipping your tosies in the crisp water, there is access, you can walk down to. Parking lot is small and tight. Happy Adventure Ya'll!

Boulder Bay Park is one of Big Bear Lake's most picturesque (and busy) spots, offering stunning…read moreviews of the lake, towering boulders, and plenty of open space for you and your dog to enjoy. Located on the western side of Big Bear Lake, this park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, particularly those looking to enjoy a peaceful and leisurely walk with their pets, a picnic, or just some quiet time by the water. There is a free parking lot adjacent to the park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. If the lot is full, there is additional street parking available nearby. The park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is mild, and the lake is at its most beautiful.

Bears play a pivotal role in my life: they are one of my spirit animals, my name means "Little…read moreBear" in Latin which is also a pet name moniker, I have a tattoo with a bear and another of the Ursa Minor constellation, my deceased father was obsessed with bears, etc. When I was a teenager before evening living in the state of California (which obviously has its own bear connection); I was obsessed with MTV just like every other hot-blooded teenage girl. One year, MTV production went to Big Bear for a winter skiing getaway. I was instantly drawn to Big Bear per the name and somehow felt my soul tugged (the same as to the entire state which is why I moved here nearly two decades ago). I vowed to someday visit Big Bear. I am also one of the proud members of the 'Eagle Fam' who is faithfully devoted to the world-famous bald eagle couple Jackie & Shadow watching their nest cam every day. My adult vow, added to the teen one regarding visiting, was to see Jackie and Shadow's nest in real life sans camera. Well, the day has come and Little Bear has finally visited Big Bear! If those of us living in Los Angeles aren't spoiled enough; we have the amazing San Bernadino Mountain range village of Big Bear just a two-hour drive away where we can escape the hustle-bustle of stressful LA and enjoy the alpine splendor that is Big Bear. Big Bear is known for its skiing season but is also a summer retreat with cabin life, hiking, boating, fishing, zip lines, shopping, etc; 7000+ feet above sea level surrounded by pine trees and mountains that kiss the sky. Even the drive to Big Bear is glorious on the winding road up the mountain that famously reveals Big Bear and its centerpiece model the lake in the distance glittering blue surrounded by mountains. Big Bear is breath-taking even before you formally arrive. As an Angelino, the energy and vibe of Big Bear can't be ignored. Not only is the air clean and devoid of smog, but it is peaceful, slow-paced and calming: a genuine retreat that feels worlds away from the LA proper. At the center of it all is the main showpiece: Big Bear Lake, itself. The lake is 7 miles in circumference but manages to appear sweepingly larger and is surrounded by cabins, boat docks, shopping, skiing, hiking trails, Big Bear Village (the central mountain tourist-y district) and the commercialized village center with everything from Vons, Starbucks, Dollar Tree, Marshalls and Grocery Bargain Outlet to nearby Big Bear Courthouse, post office and library. The lake is the prom queen of Big Bear. If you're thinking that it is probably just any old lake; you are sorely mistaken as it is a thing of beauty. As a Jackie and Shadow fan club member; I went to the Captain John's Marina/Dana Point Park shoreline Fawnskin section of Big Bear Lake which is the official, legal viewing point of the bald eagle nest (the land directly surrounding the nest and their famous roost trees is federally protected especially during nesting season and is a criminal act to trespass). Bring binoculars because looking up from the ground is further optically then from the nest cam in reverse. While I was there, Jackie was on the nest with the two babies but I was hoping to catch Shadow, the King of Big Bear either fishing or flying-in. I had waited and just when I literally verbally stated, "Shadow show yourself!"; I kid you not that he flew right over from the other side of the lake and soared above in circles only approximately 60 feet above for a minute in duration. I cried and this was one of the most magical moments of my life and a true spiritual encounter with the celebrity Shad Daddy. Big Bear is also magical in that even in the skiing off-season of April when I visited; a snowstorm hit and the pine trees and lake turned into a Christmas Card. Even I, this Los Angeles sun girl who loves heat and hates the cold; had snowflakes in my eyes and felt like a child surrounded by magic dust has I haven't truly been in snowfall in 17 years. A very dire and controversial topic effecting Big Bear at the time of this review is the fight against land developers who purchased the 'Moon Camp' parcel of land very close to the nest and want to bulldoze over 2k trees, create 50 boat slips and luxury housing even though there is NO housing shortage in Big Bear. The developers have agreed to sell Moon Camp to the Friends of Big Bear nonprofit/San Bernadino Trust for the hefty sum of $10 mil by July 31st to save Moon Camp and forever protect Jackie and Shadow's home area. The cause has gone worldwide viral and at the time of this review is up to $3 mil in donations (failure is not an option and financing will be the next step is $10 mil isn't reached). Big Bear Lake and the entire mountainous retreat city now hold a piece of my heart and I am chomping at the bit to return. This peaceful and heavenly mountaintop lake and city is the must-see of all Angelinos whether for skiing, boating or visiting the King and Queen, Jackie and Shadow.

Year round fun and beauty - not just the winter! Big Bear offers so many different activities that…read moreis sure to please. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, someone who enjoys shopping, eating, or enjoying a slower pace vacation with your family pet, Big Bear offers it. Some activities our family makes sure to enjoy for our Big Bear visits have been: Holloway's Marina to rent a dog friendly pontoon boat to enjoy lunch on the lake (they also offer Pirate Ship Charters), popping over to The Village to stroll with our dog and do a little shopping and eat some good foods (there's also many good food places outside of The Village - like the Grizzly Manor Cafe and Blanca and Pierres!), visiting the Big Bear Discovery Center, strolling along the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk, and horseback riding at Baldwin Lake Stables. In July, Big Bear puts on their "Fireworks Spectacular" which explodes over Big Bear Lake every July 4th and is FREE to spectators. A helpful tip: always check for road closures and road conditions before visiting/leaving and on the day of your travels. CalTrans has not been reliable, but Big Bear's website (Big Bear Mountain Resort dot com) has been. Just click on the "Road Conditions" tab and it'll take you to a page listing real time road updates and conditions. Enjoy beautiful Big Bear!

There are a few picnic tables under some large trees, the bike path runs through, the shoreline is…read morewalkable and you can sit and picnic. Very nice spot to relax!

This is a great spot to see the lake and relax. There are trails to walk as well. There is limited…read moreparking but plenty when I came on a weekday.

The Stanfield Preserve Boardwalk is an easy-to-navigate trail located on the east end of Big Bear…read moreLake. This boardwalk stretches across a protected wetland area, providing a unique opportunity to experience the region's diverse flora and fauna up close. The boardwalk is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels and it's dog friendly. Just be aware of bikers. The boardwalk is open from dawn to dusk and offers ample time to explore at your own pace. Parking is available nearby, and there are several access points to the boardwalk. We parked for free in a lot at the west end of the boardwalk.

I enjoy this trail! It's a flat walk along the lake with beautiful views, especially when the…read moreweather is nice! There is a parking lot here but it can get full, so many cars are usually park along the street. What I like about this place in particular is that all ages can do it & you can walk as far or little as you'd like. Great little treasure in Big Bear!

Sly & Deven were very friendly & helpful. They helped us decide which of their locations best fit…read moreour group. Sly helped us revise our reservation to the shop near Boulder Bay Park. Deven gives great instructions & advice regarding the lake.

We rent from here every time we make our snowboarding trip to Big Bear. Easy to use website to…read morereserve from home. Quick and easy pick up process. And all their workers are so friendly, always making small talk with you and helping you get to know your board and equipments. This year we need to extend our rental an extra day and that was painless as well. When you come back to return, just drop off outside and show them your paperwork, it's a very quick process. Just a tip, there are 2 locations pretty close to each other so remember which one you rented from. :)

Bluff Lake is one of Big Bear's most beautiful hidden gems. It's the perfect spot for families with…read moresmall children to get in tune with nature. The forest rangers are incredibly friendly, helpful, and kind, especially George. He's a truly dedicated ranger who's always out walking the park, chatting with visitors, and making sure everyone follows the rules to protect both people and the ecosystem. George definitely deserves a raise! Overall, Bluff Lake gets an A+ for camping. Highly recommended!

The view of this lake was somehow the nicest view I saw during my entire trip to Big Bear Lake,…read moreeven compared to all of the nice views of that lake and the mountains. It's about a 30-minute drive (according to Google Maps) to get there from town, but we decided to hike up Castle Rock Trail instead, which only took about an hour. Once you get hold of a map, it's not difficult to find the way. From the top of Castle Rock Trail, just head right on the dirt road and take the first left. Not much to say other than it is a beautiful place, serene, and worth the hike. Oh and we did see a deer in the road!

Been here more then 4-5 times in past 15 years. Quiet, outstanding relaxation and man made lake…read moreused in several famous western movies. Remodeled central bunk house and outlying cabins very modern. Prices a bit less... then several bigger camps nearby. Food is great with excellent large salad bars.

We have attended Cedar Lake Camp for multiple Junior High summer camps. The lodging is clean and a…read moreroom of 8 has its own private bathroom. There is an additional bathroom in the hallway if needed. The kitchen and dining area is clean and I have never been fed so well with good food. We could have seconds if needed as they are generous. The staff are friendly and efficient. The facilities are expansive and the private lake is nice to swim or Kayak in. You can see glimpses of Big Bear lake below. This is a great place to stay for a camp.

The hike is so so so gorgeous! The Big Bear magazine labeled it as easy & I guess relatively…read morespeaking it is, but when it's 95-100 F it's not the easiest thing in the WORLD. Kids can do it though, so, fine, it's easy. Gorgeous wildflowers along the way. Many scenic moments to take photographs or stand & enjoy the scenery. Stunning trees & flowers. When we got to the actual lake (super ready in our bathing suits), it smelled like manure. Unsure why. So we didn't end up swimming, but we turned around & got to see more of the hike instead of missing out on the end of the hike by going back the same exact way (since we walked across the beach area). Definitely recommend, especially if you're pushing a stroller or have children! We saw many families and people getting exercise.

I have walked and ridden this bike path hundreds of times. Fun fact: if you walk from Big Bear…read moreShores resort to Stanfield and back you will have logged approximately 800 steps! Whether you stroll this path or ride it, you will witness nature at its pinnacle. From the gorgeous lake, towering pines, colorful wildflowers and snowcapped mountains, the Good Lord did not skimp when it comes to eye candy. Just this morning I caught a glimpse of three coyotes frolicking in the lake. I saw ducks, rabbits, chipmunks, squirrels, and a variety of birds all enjoying the beautiful lake they call home. These peaceful surroundings beckon me every time I visit Big Bear. Be sure to visit this glorious path!

We wanted to try out and see how our dogs would do kayaking...the staff was super helpful and made…read moresome recommendations to get us going. Even though our dogs jumped off twice we got out a little bit but they were still stressed so we ended up coming in brought them home and went back without dogs. They credited us the time and were very chill and understanding. Really great place and would definitely go back again.

Very chill experience, not much to complain about. Free parking in the adjacent lot, just walk down…read moreto the dock and the kayaks are already in the water and waiting for you to disembark. They explain the rules of the lake, you check in on a sheet of paper, and then they quickly get you situated in a kayak and send you off. Very efficient, no time wasted. They're very patient when it comes to getting you in and out of your kayak if you have a dog. I'm not sure if all kayak places have this, but it was nice that they had pads specifically for dogs to sit/lay on so that they're comfortable. Will definitely always come back here for kayaking in Big Bear.