Big Bear boat rentals, stays and activities by the lake

Big Bear Lake and its surroundings

Big Bear Lake is located 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, within the San Bernardino National Forest. The area's elevations span from 6,750 to 9,000 feet. The lake itself is a man-made freshwater body, measuring 7 miles in length and one-half mile in width, with over 22 miles of shoreline. The City of Big Bear Lake does not include Big Bear City, Fawnskin, or the parts of Moonridge under San Bernardino County jurisdiction.

The Village serves as the main hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment within the City of Big Bear Lake. Boulder Bay is a lakeside neighborhood situated near the western edge of the city. Fawnskin is located on the north shore and is adjacent to the San Bernardino National Forest. Big Bear City, east of the main city, is an unincorporated area managed by San Bernardino County.

Governing the lake

The Big Bear Municipal Water District oversees boating and recreational activities on Big Bear Lake. This oversight is conducted through a system of rules, permits, inspections, and a dedicated Lake Patrol. Their role is to manage the use of the lake.

Big Bear Lake offers a variety of water activities from spring through fall. You can enjoy fishing, boating, jet skiing, and kayaking during these warmer months. Many marinas open for the season in spring, though fishing from the shore is possible all year.

Summer brings warm days with average temperatures around 77 degrees Fahrenheit, cooling to about 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night. During this time, Snow Summit operates a downhill bike park and offers cross-country trails, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides.

As autumn arrives, the foliage changes. Lake activities like kayaking and paddleboarding can continue as long as the weather permits. It is important to remember that walking or playing on the lake ice is not permitted at any time.

Winter in Big Bear typically sees around 120 inches of snowfall. Daytime temperatures average in the mid-40s Fahrenheit, dropping to the mid-20s Fahrenheit after dark. Spring acts as a shoulder season, where skiing and snow tubing might still be available while fishing, kayaking, and boating begin to return.

The lake supports a range of activities throughout much of the year. From spring to autumn, visitors can engage in fishing, boating, and other water sports.

Spring allows for a mix of winter and summer activities, while fall can bring changing foliage and continued water recreation.

Seasonal operations for marinas begin in spring. Shoreline fishing provides a year-round option for anglers, regardless of the season.

The temperature shifts significantly between summer and winter. Summer days average around 77 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter nights average in the mid-20s Fahrenheit.