Great Picnic Spots in Big Bear Lake: Where to Enjoy a Perfect Picnic in the Mountains
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Big Bear Lake! Nestled amidst the towering pines of the San Bernardino Mountains, this picturesque destination offers a wealth of idyllic picnic settings.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic lakeside escape, a fun-filled family outing, or a serene solo retreat, Big Bear has the perfect picnic spot waiting for you.
Looking for more excitement? Discover everything else there is to do in Big Bear.
Best Seasons for Picnics
Big Bear Lake is a fantastic picnic destination throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm.
- Summer: Enjoy warm weather, sparkling lake views, and ample sunshine for lounging by the water or picnicking under the shade of towering pines.
- Fall: Experience the breathtaking transformation of the landscape as the leaves turn vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red. Hike the trails, enjoy a picnic surrounded by colorful foliage, and cozy up as temperatures begin to cool.
- Winter: Embrace the winter wonderland with snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes. While picnicking directly in the snow might not be for everyone, you can still savor the stunning winter scenery with a warm drink and cozy blanket.
- Spring:Â Witness nature come alive as wildflowers bloom and the fresh mountain air fills your lungs. Pack a picnic, explore the trails, and soak in the revitalizing energy of spring.
Top Big Bear Picnic Spots
Here are some of the best picnic spots in Big Bear Lake:
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Meadow Park (41220 Park Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): This family favorite offers a playground, sports courts, picnic tables, grills, and a prime location along the lake’s south shore.
- Ski Beach Park (41216 Park Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): Right next to Meadow Park, this lakefront park provides a great mix of amenities with picnic tables, grills, a beach area, volleyball courts, and a playground for all-day fun.
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Boulder Bay Park (39148 CA-18, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): Enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains at this lakefront park. It features picnic tables, grills, a fishing pier, a playground, and a beach area.
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Happy Hills Trail Picnic Area (39707 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): Discover a peaceful and secluded picnic spot nestled along this scenic hiking trail. Enjoy the tranquility, picnic tables, grills, and beautiful natural surroundings.
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Castle Rock Trail (Access points along North Shore Drive, Big Bear Lake): Hike this trail for breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake and surrounding mountains. Find the perfect scenic spot along the way for a picnic with an unforgettable backdrop.
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Veterans Park (40870 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): Picnic with lakeside views, go fishing from the pier, or let the kids enjoy the playground and beach area at this welcoming park.
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Aspen Glen Picnic Area (40105 Mill Creek Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): Find a tranquil picnic spot surrounded by trees and nature along this hiking trail. Enjoy the serenity while utilizing the picnic tables and grills.
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Rotary Pine Knot Park (481 Bartlett Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): This family-friendly park offers a playground, sports fields, picnic tables, and grills, making it a great choice for active groups.
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Dana Point Park (39369 North Shore Drive, Fawnskin, CA 92333): Enjoy lake views, picnic tables, a fishing pier, a playground, and a beach area for a classic Big Bear Lake picnic experience.
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Juniper Point (pictured above at 41365 North Shore Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315): Picnic with lake views, access for fishing, and a combination of beach area and playground to keep everyone entertained.
Family-Friendly Features
Big Bear Lake understands that a great family picnic requires more than just a scenic view. That’s why many picnic spots cater specifically to families of all ages with features like:
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Playgrounds and Play Areas: Kids can burn off energy on swings, slides, and climbing structures at spots like Meadow Park, Ski Beach Park, Rotary Pine Knot Park, Dana Point Park, and Juniper Point.
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Open Spaces: Enjoy spacious grassy areas for games and activities at Meadow Park, Boulder Bay Park, Ski Beach Park, and Veterans Park.
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Restrooms: Essential for families with younger children, conveniently located restrooms can be found at Meadow Park (seasonally), Ski Beach Park, Veterans Park, and most other parks on the list.
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Accessible Amenities: Meadow Park and Ski Beach Park offer paved walkways and accessible picnic areas. Many other parks provide varying levels of accessibility, so it’s best to inquire about specific needs before visiting.
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Water Activities: Many picnic areas are lakeside, allowing families to cool off with a swim, try stand-up paddleboarding, or simply enjoy the relaxing water views at locations like Boulder Bay Park, Ski Beach Park, Veterans Park, and Dana Point Park.
With these thoughtful features, Big Bear Lake makes it easy to create lasting memories during a family picnic adventure.
Romantic Getaways
Big Bear Lake sets the stage for a perfectly romantic picnic. Discover these idyllic spots known for stunning views and a touch of seclusion:
- Boulder Bay Park: Picnic amongst the boulders along the lake’s edge for breathtaking views and a sense of privacy.
- Juniper Point Picnic Area: Nestled along the north shore, this area offers lakefront picnicking and a less crowded atmosphere.
- Pine Knot Marina: Share a picnic basket with your loved one while watching the boats and enjoying a spectacular sunset.
- Castle Rock Trail:Â Hike this popular trail together for unforgettable lake vistas and find your own secluded picnic spot along the way.
Adventure and Activities
Elevate your Big Bear Lake picnic with exciting outdoor activities:
- Hiking Trails: Choose from trails like the easily accessible Castle Rock Trail for scenic outlooks or opt for a challenge like the Cougar Crest Trail.
- Water Sports: Rent kayaks & paddleboards, or boats to explore the lake together.
- Beaches:Â Relax on the sandy shores of Ski Beach Park, Veterans Park, or Dana Point Park and soak up the sun.
Local Wildlife and Scenery
Big Bear Lake is a photographer’s paradise, teeming with wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Keep your camera ready to capture:
- Wildlife: Spot majestic bald eagles, playful otters, or even the occasional black bear from a safe distance.
- Golden Hour: Don’t miss the magical light during sunrise or sunset, which casts a warm glow over the lake and mountains.
- Panoramic Views:Â Seek out scenic overlooks like those found along Castle Rock Trail for postcard-perfect photos.
Conservation Efforts
Help preserve Big Bear Lake’s beauty by following Leave No Trace principles, using reusable items, supporting local ecology, and respecting wildlife.
Conclusion
With its breathtaking scenery, diverse picnic areas, and wealth of outdoor activities, Big Bear Lake truly is a picnic paradise. Whether you choose a lakeside haven, a tree-shaded hideaway, or a mountaintop vista, you can create lasting memories.
So pack your picnic basket, gather your loved ones, and head to Big Bear Lake for an unforgettable picnic experience in the heart of nature’s beauty.
Let us know your favorite Big Bear picnic spots in the comments below!