Southern California family guide
Things to Do in Big Bear Lake with Kids
Curated by Simir Shah
Reviewed & updated August 2026 · we check listings regularly, but hours and prices change — confirm before you go.
Big Bear Lake on the map
📍 Where Big Bear Lake is
Big Bear Lake sits in Southern California. Nearest major airport: Palm Springs Intl (~36 mi / 58 km). It's roughly 77 mi (123 km) from Downtown LA and 107 mi (172 km) from San Diego — SoCal traffic can make a drive take far longer than the distance suggests, so plan around it.
Visiting? See SoCal at a glance, getting around and which airport.
Things to do in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Mountain wildlife rehabilitation zoo where families see bears, snow leopards, eagles, and rescued native animals.
~$15 adult, ~$12 kids
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Year-round bobsled-style slide, a mountain coaster, go-karts, and mini golf with scenic chairlift rides.
~$8–12 per ride
Big Bear Lake
Alpine lake getaway with boat rentals, fishing, swim beaches, hiking, and winter skiing, about 90 minutes up the mountain.
Varies; rentals/marina fees
Big Bear Discovery Center
This free U.S. Forest Service visitor center in Fawnskin on the north shore has hands-on nature exhibits, trail maps and ranger-led programs — a low-key family stop. It's the place to grab an Adventure Pass and get current trail and wildlife info before you hike. Pair it with a nearby walk to make the drive worthwhile.
Free
Boulder Bay Park
A small, free lakeside park about five minutes west of The Village with picnic tables, a gazebo, big granite boulders to scramble and easy shoreline paths. Parking is free and leashed dogs are welcome, making it an easy no-cost afternoon. It's a favorite for photos and picnics, so arrive early on summer weekends to snag a table near the water.
Free
Time Bandit Pirate Ship (Holloway's Marina)
The Time Bandit, an actual boat from the 1981 film, sails 90-minute narrated pirate-themed cruises out of Holloway's Marina. Kids love the swashbuckling storytelling while parents soak up lake history and mountain views. Reserve ahead on busy summer weekends, and bring a jacket — it gets breezy on the water even on warm days.
~$29 adult, $27 senior, $21 kids 3–15, under 3 free
Big Bear Solar Observatory
This working research observatory juts out on a causeway into the lake, half a mile west of the Discovery Center, studying the sun using the steady lakeside air. Even without a tour it's a striking free photo stop from the shore. Summer tours are limited and book up fast, involving a gravel walk and stairs, so best for kids 5 and up.
Free (donations encouraged); tours by reservationSeasonal & outdoors near Big Bear Lake
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from Big Bear Lake.
More SoCal family guides
Big Bear Lake family FAQ
What are the best things to do in Big Bear Lake with kids?
Family favorites in and around Big Bear Lake include Big Bear Alpine Zoo, Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, Big Bear Lake and Big Bear Discovery Center, and more. Our guide lists 7 spots, sorted by distance from you with hours, prices and tips.
Are there free things to do in Big Bear Lake?
Yes — free family spots near Big Bear Lake include Big Bear Discovery Center, Boulder Bay Park and Big Bear Solar Observatory. Use the "free only" filter in the finder above to see them all.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.
Book Big Bear Lake tours & tickets
Bookable via Viator · we may earn a commission (no extra cost to you)Bookable experiences, skip-the-line tickets, and tours in Big Bear Lake — reserved through Viator.
Free cancellationZipline Tour - 9 high-speed ziplines & fun suspension bridge
Free cancellationBig Bear Jeep off-road tour with Hike to Bluff Lake Reserve
Free cancellationBig Bear Fall Colors Hiking Tour in Southern California
Free cancellationSnowshoe Tour Big Bear Lake with Hot Chocolate
Free cancellationBig Bear Lake Snow Play Adventure
Free cancellationBig Bear Lake Jeep Tour with Light Lunch
More experiences via GetYourGuide · we may earn a commission (no extra cost to you)
Where to stay in Big Bear Lake
Hotels & rentals via Stay22 · we may earn a commissionCompare hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals near Big Bear Lake on one map — then book on your favorite site.