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Barns near Big Bear Lake

Play outside, no matter the season, in this San Bernardino National Forest community.

Popular camping styles for Big Bear Lake

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Barns near Big Bear Lake guide

Overview

Situated inside the San Bernardino National Forest, about 100 miles from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake and its namesake town make for a popular getaway, offering year-round recreation. The seven-mile-long lake is particularly popular among anglers, and there are plenty of local companies offering fishing charters and boat tours in the warmer months. There are also two ski resorts in the area: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Big Bear camping options include private camping cabin resorts and chalets, while many local campgrounds, including Serrano Campground and Pineknot Campground, are run by the US Forest Service.

Where to go

The Peninsular Ranges

The southernmost U.S. stretch of the Coast Ranges, the Peninsular Ranges create a natural buffer between the desert and the urban sprawl of Los Angeles County. This region is full of opportunities to hike, camp, and swim without having to stray far from LA. Natural areas in the region include the San Bernardino and Angeles National Forests, Mt San Jacinto State Park, and the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.

California’s Desert Region

If you head east from Big Bear Lake, you'll quickly find yourself out in the desert. While getting to the Mojave Desert National Preserve is a bit of a trek, Joshua Tree National Park and the Salton Sea oasis both offer otherworldly landscapes within a short drive of town.

The Southern California Coast

In many people’s minds, California is synonymous with beaches, and if you’re a fan of swimming and sunbathing, SoCal offers the best coastal options in the state. While San Diego and Los Angeles have plenty of great beaches to choose from, many of which have their own campgrounds, some of the prettiest options are off the coast of Orange County, between the two cities.

When to go

Big Bear Lake is a year-round destination, offering snow in the winter and water activities the rest of the year. The lake is open for boating from spring through fall, and summer is particularly popular for stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, and swimming. July and August are the warmest months, though temperatures rarely soar above the low 80s, making the area attractive for Angelinos looking for a cooler escape from the city.

Nearby attractions

Experience the joy of camping near Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Overlooking the shimmering Puddingstone Lake, it offers abundant recreational activities, making your camping trip fun-filled and memorable.

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