Glamping in Big Bear Lakes, CA

Glamping in Big Bear Lakes, CA

Visited on August 31 – September 2, 2018

Big Bear Lakes or simply Big Bear is the perfect place to be to get away from the bustling city of Los Angeles. Big Bear is a short 2 hours drive from the Los Angeles Airport which gives residents and visitors an easy escape into nature. Big Bear can be visited year round with several recreational activities from skiing during the winter to kayaking on the lake during the summer. My friends and I rented an AirBnB during Labor Day weekend to soak in some bonding time and some outdoors adventure.

Where We Stay

My friends and I rented a 3 bedroom airbnb with a game room, a patio with a gorgeous view and a front and backyard. We booked our house about 2 months in advance. It was definitely a great find. 

What to Do

Hike

Cougar Crest Trail

Cougar Crest Trail is a 4 mile round trip trail in the San Bernardino National Forest that connects with part of the famous Pacific Crest Trail. The trail is located half a mile from the Big Bear Discovery Center. You can park in this lot for free before 6pm (but do check the center for times) or purchase an Adventure Pass to park at the trailhead. The elevation of the Cougar Crest Trail is 6,880 feet at the trailhead. I would consider this trail as a moderate hike. The plus side was that the trail was not busy at all during my visit. Once you hit the top, there is a wonderful view of the lake and the city. 

bb-1

bb-1-2

bb-3-2

bb-2

bb-3

Castle Rock Trail

The Castle Rock trail is a 1.1 mile hike with a 500 feet elevation gain. My group and I parked on the street, however, parking is very limited. The Adventure Pass is not required here. The hike is quick but keep in mind that it is steep. If you want to go up higher, you may have to climb up some boulders. Be careful, they can be slippery.

bbk-8

bbk-9

bbk-11

bbk-12

bbk-13

bbk-15

Kayak

My friends and I bought a discount ticket through Groupon for a 2 hour kayak or stand up boarding at Captain John’s Fawn Harbor & Marina. With the coupon, a kayak rental is $35 and stand-up paddle boarding is $40. We first checked in at their office. The worker then directed us to the dock to assign us our kayaks and paddle board. 

bbk-1

me

bbk-4

bbk-3

bbk-5

The Village

I enjoy visiting villages in mountain cities. Something about cabin looking buildings that brings excitement to me. My friends and I walked around exploring several boutiques. We enjoy playing with all the trinkets and coming across unique finds. 

bbv-1

bbv-2

bbv-4

bbv-5

bbv-3