🗺️ ~1.5–2 hrs from OC & LA
Lake Arrowhead & Lake Gregory with kids
Curated by Punita Patel, Editor
~1.5–2 hrs from OC & LA
Summer for the lakes/water park; winter for Santa's Village & snow
Who it's for: Families wanting an active mountain-and-lake day or weekend, from toddlers to thrill-seeking tweens.
What to do with kids
Family tips
- Lake Gregory Aqua Park and McKenzie are summer-seasonal (~Memorial Day–Labor Day) — confirm hours before driving up.
- Heaps Peak parking needs a Forest Service Adventure Pass.
Hours, prices and seasonal access change — confirm with each attraction before you go. Know a great Lake Arrowhead & Lake Gregory spot for families? Suggest it.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Arrowhead & Lake Gregory good for a family day trip?
Up in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead and nearby Lake Gregory deliver classic mountain-lake summers and a year-round adventure park built on the bones of a beloved old Santa's Village. Kids can ride a paddlewheel boat, conquer a floating obstacle course, or take a first water-ski lesson — and the pines and cool air feel a world away from the coast. Families wanting an active mountain-and-lake day or weekend, from toddlers to thrill-seeking tweens.
How far is Lake Arrowhead & Lake Gregory from OC and LA?
~1.5–2 hrs from OC & LA. The best time to visit is summer for the lakes/water park; winter for santa's village & snow.