This is a wonderful little arboretum with free admission just north of Skypark along Highway 18…read more Be aware, however, that parking in the designated lot adjacent to the highway does require the purchase of an Adventure Pass (a mere $5/day), but the booth only appears to be open for select weekend hours. This may necessitate a visit to a nearby ranger station or business for pass purchase - and not as many local businesses carry these passes as once did. Coming from Lake Arrowhead (where the Visitor Center was closed), we tried the Lake Arrowhead 7-11 and Cedar Glen Trading Post before finding passes available at Cedar Glen Fine Foods. The trail itself is well marked, mostly shaded, and a little less than a mile in length. It's also circular in design, so you don't need to backtrack with the same scenery coming and going. A brochure on the local vegetation and points of interest is available at the trailhead, as well as public restrooms. Many trees and plants along the trail are also identified by placards. Being a dirt path, the terrain is comparatively flat, and numerous benches have been placed along the route for rest or contemplation. There are only a few spots with noticeable increases (or drops) in elevation, so it's perfect for young children, older folks, or leashed pets. Even on a Thursday around 1:00 pm we encountered other visitors along the trail, several walking dogs. Another nice touch is the walking path in front of the arboretum entrance where the meandering cement walkway between information kiosks is stamped with the prints of local wildlife species ranging from our little feathered friends to the big furries you'd not want to encounter on a forest walk. This is a great place for a quick stroll for all ages, and it showcases the diversity of the San Bernardino mountains. If you've passed it by on the way up to Big Bear via Highway 18, pull over for a quick "leg-stretcher" and check it out.

We got the day pass over at the Lake Arrowhead Village visitor center. I think it was $6 or $8…read more You can also pay there through an app, if you can get cell service. So it is easier to get the pass before you get there. There are some picnic tables to enjoy a meal or a break. There is a small cement path, to take you to a few little sights but there is also a dirt trail path that takes you out amongst the nature. We were there in July, it was during a heatwave, and mid day, so not too many birds and animals were out. There are a lot of tall trees that provide good shade, so that helps cool it off a little bit. There are some docents walking around that have information about the flora, fauna, and the area. The parking lot is decent size, but during cooler weather I bet it is hard to find parking. There is an easy trail, less than 20-30 minutes at a nice slow pace, during the summer. I imagine during winter snow it is much more challenging. It is a nice spot in between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear.

Park and lake use are "for ALA members/guests" only. Notice electronic entry system in place for…read moreboth foot and vehicular traffic and ALA does patrol its' holdings---they are nonpareil. Park borders Green Valley Lake and the posh Lake Arrowhead Country Club offering vistas of luscious velvety greens (nurtured by reclaimed water thanks LACSD). Fastidious maintenance observed (on my visit). Dogs allowed to play and doggie bags are provided at no charge to keep all sanitary. Fishing allowed with license. Ducks, geese and many varieties of birds spotted and large groups of bright orange/white Koi.

Nice spot. Lovely ducks. Lots of dogs. They took the playground equipment down wish was the reason…read moreo went there. I don't know if it's just for the winter or permanent.

Crest park is nestled in San Bernardino mountains, located near big bear. It is a small park with a…read morefew parking spaces. However, it is such a lovely park to visit as for a picnic nature is surrounded all around. Often times when you visit you could be the other visitor at the time visiting almost like the whole area to yourself. Certain times of the year there could be snow and everything looks even more magical covered in snow. There are restrooms and every time I have visited it was as clean as clean gets. Don't miss the chance to stop here when I'm the area as the views are quite lovely. A recreation/local adventure pass is required. Adventure on! "Adventure is not outside people; it is within!"

Small picnic area on Highway 18, we had to burn some time before check in time and this was an OK…read morepublic area to pull over and see some snow during the off season. The picnic area itself is on the sunny area of the mountain, and the snow melts faster on this side. There are 4-5 picnic tables with benches underneath some trees near the parking lot. It's right on the edge of a mountain with no gates or paved trails so you can wander off and truly feel like you are in the wild. Because we went in February if you want snow action head across the street. There is a large area here with trees and leftover snow, there are flat areas and a small river for kids to make snowballs and play in. Spread throughout are also small hills good for short sledding with the benefit of not having to trek far back uphill over and over.

Amazing hike about 2 hours if you have small kids. Beautiful trees really woody…read more It's a round trip loop with the map posted in the middle

Great short hike, about 2 miles round trip, easy to moderate trail, beautiful trees, serene views,…read morepeaceful, and not busy. Stayed at an Airbnb close by and my kids wanted to explore the outdoors. Found this trail and it was prefect for what we were looking for. My 8 year olds enjoyed the view from the top, saw squirrels and birds, and only got tired towards the end. There is a dirt path and signs posted making it easy to follow. There were lots of trees providing shade and a cool feel. There were a few areas (stumps/down trees/rocks) to sit and rest at and some inclines, but nothing too strenuous or steep. It was very quiet and peaceful, and it felt like we were the only ones out there. Although we ran into 3 couples during our hike, we had the trail pretty much to ourselves. There is limited parking, but we were able to park along the curb and didn't have an issue. Worth checking out if you're in the area.

My family and I had a great experience here. From all the variety and choices of activities to how…read moresmoothly everything runs and is operated. We found this to be a great way to enjoy the outdoor weather and be active in Lake Arrowhead. This park is very accessible and was 20 minutes from the cabin we were staying in. The only thing we would do differently next time is bring our own mountain bikes. Good value also.

Was unsure if this was adult friendly or more kid friendly. Hands down BOTH. If you're in the area,…read morethis is a must. They charge for parking ( $15 at the door vs $10 on line) The price of the ticket gets you- axe throwing, bow shooting, bb gun range shooting, ice skating, petal car, rock wall climbing, bike rail, and zip lining (zip lining requires reservation, do that immediately entering park). Arrive earlier to avoid the crowd and long waits. They have plenty of shows, food, sweets, beverages, and coffee. This def was one of the top favorite activities during my stay. Worth the price

Lake Gregory Water Day…read more We made the most of our day at Lake Gregory! We tried the inflatable water park, paddle boarding, and a Duffy boat ride and each one was a different kind of fun! Paddle boarding More challenging than it looks, especially when you're trying to keep your balance, but so much fun once you get the hang of it. Duffy boat Definitely the relaxing part of the day! Cruising around the lake, enjoying the scenery, and taking in the beautiful Mountain View's Inflatable water park: The kids had a blast! Adults be prepared to work for it because the climbing and balancing are no joke! Overall, such a fun family day at Lake Gregory. Definitely recommend trying all three if you're visiting!

Rented 2 canoes and 1 pedal boat for our group of 7 yesterday. Would not recommend…read more We paid at 11:30 and were only then told we couldn't get on the water until 12. Nobody mentioned this beforehand, so we just stood around wasting time. Basic communication issue that should've been handled at booking. The equipment wasn't maintained. Our canoe had spiders in it, and the pedal boat's shade cover wasn't tied down properly so it barely worked. Staff coordination was worse. One worker took the 5 of us canoeing down to the dock, while our 2 friends doing the pedal boat were left standing at the top with no instructions. When the worker helping us with the canoe finally noticed, he yelled down at them -- "PEDAL BOAT. COME ON, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" -- complete with an attitude, a loud audible steups, and exaggerated hand gestures like it was their fault. It was the staff's own miscommunication, not ours. The lake itself was underwhelming. Water was dirty and murky, and the usable area for both the canoes and pedal boat was so small you could cover the whole thing in under 20 minutes. To top it off, when we returned the canoe, one of the workers told us "if you fall I will laugh." Not funny, just rude. Between the disorganization, dirty equipment, and unprofessional staff, this isn't worth the money.

First review for Tavern Bay Beach Club though we've been coming here for 15 years. This is as well…read moreas Burnt Mill, a private beach so you must show your Lake Arrowhead Association card to get in. Between Burnt Mill and Tavern Bay, Tavern Bay I believe is more child friendly. They've always had a better playground and even better now since they renovated a couple of years ago. Better food consesseion (a must with kids) a larger beach (not so much this year) and a larger swim area. They have a large covered picnic area as well if you want to stay clear of the sun. If you want to paddle board, Tavern Bay is second to Burnt Mill. You cannot use your board in the swim area and where your able to paddle board, the water is typically choppy from the boats so this is where Burnt Mill wins out which has a larger no wake zone and a easy paddle to Lone Pine Island. Tavern Bay also has a large overflow parking lot which is great on a busy weekend.

Spotlessly clean, decent amount of parking, playground, snack bar and plenty of chase lounges at…read moreyour disposal. That's all good and well but the two real highlights are: 1. Looking across the water to the teeny, tiny swimming area buoyed off for UCLA as compared to what you have; makes you feel real fancy. 2. As long as its not glass, they let you pass. Feel like getting nice and buzzed up at 9:00AM then going for a dip to feel fresh water kelp comb between your toes? The world is your oyster my friend (BYOB).

Came across this beach Club while we were on our way from a OHV lane, it's for members only which I…read moredidn't know but I needed to use a restroom so I was focused on that. We saw the sunset and got our feet in the water -it was surprisingly warm!! People were so welcoming I had no issues with anyone and the facility was very clean. There's a playground with swings and slides and a campo rental among some boat docks. I posted pictures.

Burnt Mill is a private beach, part of Lake Arrowhead Association. Lake Arrowhead is a private…read morelake, the only way to join the association is to own property in Lake Arrowhead. With all that said, Burnt Mill is a quit little family beach. There's another beach on the other side of the lake; Tavern Bay which is larger but Burnt Mill is better for launching paddle boards and kayaks.

Baylis Park is small and just right off highway 18. You must, I repeat you must, everyone must have…read morean adventure pass presented in vehicle to park here. The parking lot is also very small. They have restrooms, picnic tables, and bear proof rubbish cans. There were loads of rocks and naked trees as the leaves had fallen off. It was also quite windy on the day I arrived. I thought it would be nice to snap a few photos of the city with the high elevation. It's also great for kids and also if you have pets. I'm glad I stopped by as it was really nice to soak up some sun (ooh girls just wanna have sun? Lol) and appreciate all the beauty surrounding me. I had my tripod with me as per usual. It's a nice place to have a picnic, stretch your legs, and take a breather! "Change your expectations for appreciations and the world changes instantly!" -Tony Robbins

A small little park on the rim drive…read more You are able to picnic and barbecue with a permit. We stopped by to enjoy the magnificent view. It was breathtaking.

Just went the other day, the road was still open to make it just a very short hike to get to the…read morecool creek and bridge area. IT DEFINITELY IS STILL ILLEGAL TO VISIT UNTIL MAY 21st 2021 at least. The website doesn't say so but several signs out here do and there is no reversal of that order anywhere to be found in the internet. Honestly was a cool place that i can't wait to explore more but I'm thankful it's closed because it's too easy too access which enables non nature people to go easily and trash it and disrespect the area, and not responsibly socially distance. If you aren't a local please don't visit this spot Go explore trails and nature area in your home towns and if there isn't enough than get your voice heard in local city council meetings and demand some more.

This spot was absolutely perfect for a family hike and some fun splashing about in the river and…read moreswimming holes. It is an extremely simple hike, no rough terrain and clearly marked. We had driven from Arizona for some cooler weather and had the hardest time simply finding a good spot for the kids to play and swim without needing to pay a fortune (We dont have to pay to swim in lakes in Arizona which I didn't know was a novelty??) We rented a cabin by Arrowhead lake and found out AFTER we got there that it is a private lake. We were told by locals that a great family lake was Lake Gregory which was about 20 minutes away. We drove to lake Gregory only to be told by park rangers that we cant swim in the lake unless we go to the designated family beach area and pay $10 per person (adults and children included) to use a small crowded beach area. That particular day I gave in and paid so my children could have some fun outside and in the water. I was determined to continue looking... FINALLY, I searched for rivers, streams and hiking nearby to get some peace and adventure and came across this little gem. Maybe we got lucky since it was in the middle of the week, but there were very few people on the trail, not to mention only one other family with kids at the swimming hole that my kids played with. The water was clean and cool, it was not crowded, there was ample shade and sandy beach areas...it was PERFECT. I would highly recommend this area for family use.