🗺️ ~1.5–2 hrs from OC & LA
Lake Arrowhead & Lake Gregory with kids
Curated by Simir Shah
~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.
Live in the area or want the full list? See our complete Inland Empire things-to-do guide.
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.
Get more SoCal day trips near you
We'll send the best family things to do and day trips near you every week. Unsubscribe anytime.
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.