This place was great. Upon pulling up to Nature's Inn, it looked cute and rustic. As other reviews have stated, it could be updated to be more contemporary, but our group thought its appearance was quite appropriate for a snowy, mountain get-a-way.
The parking lot was a bit small (the Inn was at capacity according to the "No Vacancy" sign) so we ended up having to double park our vehicles - a minor inconvenience but we ended up traveling in one car while we were there anyway. Around the parking lot is a long, wrap-around porch with lounge chairs, bench swings, potted plants, a barbecue, pet tethers and food/water bowls, trash cans and ash trays that made for a very inviting environment even before checking in(had it been above three degrees, I'm sure we would have been hanging out there).
The office is small and cluttered, but despite the analog reservation system, check-in was actually very steam-lined and simple. Ed (the owner) had gotten in touch with us several times prior to our arrival (confirmation, weather/traffic updates, etc., all very helpful and appreciated) so check-in was a very familiar-feeling interaction; he remembered us. He was enthusiastic to have us and very knowledgeable about the area, its attractions, restaurants, road conditions, local deals and discounts, and was pleased to share pamphlets, brochures, and flyers with us about it all. Though the office seemed cluttered at first, it was actually laid out quite nicely once he explained what all of the papers were - he also knew exactly what everything was and where to find it. He offered us copies of newspapers, coupons, etc. and was delighted to make sure our time in Big Bear was enjoyable. He also provided complementary refreshments including locally grown (as in, from across the street) fruit.
After check-in and a briefing of the area, we got a tour. The Inn has a sort of lounge with a pool table, board games, record albums, furniture, and a lot of seemingly random odds and ends. Though we didn't need or use any of it, it was nice to know it was available - Ed goes above and beyond to serve his guests (including clothing for backpackers to wear while they do their laundry).
My girlfriend and I spent two nights (12/31-1/1) at Natures in with another couple. We opted for the Wolf Room, which, at $200/night is the "expensive room" and sleeps six. It offered a master bedroom with a king-size bed, full kitchen with appliances, kitchenware and utensils, two futons with plenty of extra bedding and blankets, gas fire place, full-size bathroom (with hot tub), and a backyard with a porch. It also has all the comfort items you would expect of a hotel (toiletries, coffee, tea, etc.) but maintains an older, rustic feel. The room was decorated nicely and was very comfortable. It fit four adults each with bags and snowboard gear just fine.
The reason I gave Nature's Inn four stars instead of five is that it could use some work in order to appear a bit more professional. The floor in the kitchen had some tiles coming up, the shower head was not properly installed (though that could be the fault of the previous guests), and we had trouble locking the door (though Ed did warn us of that and demonstrate how to handle it). As for the old appearance and furniture - we loved it and thought it was very appropriate. We all had a great time at Nature's Inn and appreciate Ed and his staff for what they do to make it such a comfortable stay. Should we return to Big Bear, Nature's Inn will be the first place we contact for a room.