9 Most Gorgeous Lakes In Big Bear, California

1. Big Bear Lake

If you’re in Big Bear, the most famous lake to visit is none other than Big Bear Lake. This reservoir offers many activities, such as boating, fishing, and sunbathing, to name a few. Here, you will find Big Bear Mountain Resort. Situated at the heart of San Bernardino County, this lake offers you the chance to not only enjoy soaking up in its waters but also admire the mesmerizing sights offered by the majestic pine trees that surround the area. It also has a 22-mile (35-kilometer) shoreline dotted with marinas. Bringing your kids or pets with you will not be a hassle because there are many pet and kid-friendly establishments surrounding the lake that can accommodate guests, including young ones and fur babies.

Big Bear Lake

Website: Big Bear

Nearby lakes

2. Jenks Lake

Jenks Lake is a man-made lake close to Big Bear Lake and situated in San Bernardino National Forest. With several species of fish that live in its waters, Jenks Lake is a haven for anglers and fishing enthusiasts. You should consider visiting this lake between April and October because that’s the trout season, perfect if you don’t want to miss catching fish. While no motorboats are allowed on the lake, you can still go kayaking and canoeing here. With all the fishing activities and recreational and nature-viewing opportunities here, it’s a great spot to go picnicking with friends and family.

Jenks Lake

Website: Jenks Lake

Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)

3. Baldwin Lake

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Home of the sacred landmark, The Eye of God, Baldwin Lake is one of the most popular lakes to visit near Big Bear, California. Although swimming isn’t allowed in this lake, there are many interesting activities that will make your visit here worth your while, such as wildlife viewing and hiking. You can also catch sight of the historic The Eye of God, a quartz dome that served as the sacred site of the native Serrano people. Those who visit here can also drop by Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve or spot Baldwin Lake Linanthus, a flowering plant that only grows in San Bernardino Mountains.

4. Cedar Lake

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

An artificial lake where several Hollywood films were shot, Cedar Lake is situated south of Big Bear Lake and just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. Various activities will keep you and your family entertained here. Go hiking in the forests around the lake or swim in the lake’s waters. Additionally, it is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and other establishments if you ever need to buy anything. It is also home to Cedar Lake Camp, a camp and retreat that offers various activities and accommodation. With the lake’s sheer beauty, it is one of the best spots to visit near Big Bear Lake.

5. Silverwood Lake

Established back in 1971 as part of the State Water Project of California, Silverwood Lake is one of the well-known tourist spots near Big Bear. The lake serves as a major source of water in Mojave Desert and San Bernardino Mountain as well as a space for people looking to adore nature while picnicking. Tourists can enjoy boating activities here; for fishing lovers, the lake is teeming with several species of fish for you to catch, such as bluegill, carp, and striped bass.

Silverwood Lake

Address: 14651 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA 92345, United States

Website: Silverwood Lake

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

6. Hesperia Lake

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Hesperia Lake is Hesperia’s main attraction, best known for being a great spot for fishing, boating, and camping. This man-made lake is located in the southeast area of the city and functions as a venue for Hesperia Day activities. The place also offers horseback riding, for those who want a unique lakeside activity. A large soccer field is available for use if you’re looking for some physical activity. For events and other occasions, there are facilities that can be rented. Hesperia Lake is just about an hour or two drive from Big Bear through California State Route 18.

Hesperia Lake

Address: 7500 Arrowhead Lake Road, Hesperia CA 92345

Website: Hesperia Lake Park

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

7. Bluff Lake

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Southwest of Big Bear lies Bluff Lake surrounded by pine trees. Perfect for people who love nature trips, Bluff Lake Reserve is home to marshes and meadows where wildflowers bloom seasonally. It is also home to several endangered plant species, such as the California Dandelion and the Big Bear checkerbloom among others. Trail hiking is also another popular activity here, made even more enjoyable by the lake’s natural features. You can reach Bluff Lake under an hour from Big Bear.

Bluff Lake

Address: Bluff Lake Road, California, USA

Website: Bluff Lake Reserve

8. Green Valley Lake

For travelers who also happen to be fans of fishing, Green Valley Lake is one of the places to be in San Bernardino. Here, you can fish from 9 acres (3.6 hectares) of water, which is regularly stocked with several species including catfish, crappie, and bass. Created in 1926, this artificial lake only receives rain and snow rather than other streams or rivers. Aside from fishing, Green Valley Lake also offers opportunities to enjoy boating, sightseeing, and camping. This tourist destination can be accessed easily with just less than two hours of driving from Los Angeles, California.

Green Valley Lake

Website: Green Valley Lake

9. Lake Fulmor

Lake Fulmor is a great place to hang out with your family, especially if all of you love nature trips. For one, it is a natural habitat of many animals, such as squirrels, mule deer, and the California tree frog. If fishing is what you’d like to do, the lake is stocked with rainbow trout for travelers to catch. There are also hiking trails here, which invites more opportunities to bask in the wilderness. Lake Fulmor is less than 2 hours of drive from Big Bear and sits at State Route 243.

Lake Fulmor

Website: Lake Fulmor

Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)

Enjoy nature from time to time

If you’re in California or nearby, it’s a good idea to relax from time to time. With all the natural wonders that await you, plus all the activities that can strengthen the bond between you and your family, visiting one of the most gorgeous lakes in Big Bear, California, will be worth the time you’ll spend on traveling.