Due to the Wildfire crisis in California, all National Forests in the state are closed. This closure is expected to last until September 17, 2021. All campgrounds are currently closed and there is no hiking, biking or off-roading allowed in the forest at this time. But not to worry, there is still plenty to do when visiting Big Bear.

The 50+ Annual Oktoberfest celebration is due to kick off on Saturday, September 11th and will run until November 7th at the Big Bear Convention Center. Taste authentic German food and drink, dance to a Polka band, play some games and have some fun!

-Shop, dine, see a movie, listen to some live music or try an escape room in The Village.

– The lake and marinas are open. Rent a boat and spend a day on the lake fishing, swimming and playing. Be sure you don’t miss the beautiful sunset over the western mountains.

-Visit the new and improved Big Bear Alpine Zoo and see what the residents are up to.

-Take a hike on one of the privately owned trails in Big Bear, including the Maple Ridge trail system.

-Go treasure hunting at one of our local thrift shops.

-Ride the Mineshaft Coaster, Alpine Slide, Water Slide or Soaring Eagle at Magic Mountain.

-Do the ropes course or take a wild ride in the go-carts at Big Bear Speedway.

-Walk along the boardwalk at Standfield Marsh.

-As soon as it gets dark out look toward the sky becuase stargazing is a must in Big Bear at night. You will be sure to see the Milky Way, the Big Dipper, Jupiter (this time of year) and more stars than you can count.

We know this forest closure is disappointing to our visitors but we understand why they are doing it. We would just like to take this opportunity to say that we support and are so grateful to our firefighters who risk their lives day in and day out keeping us all safe. THANK YOU!!!

Do you love Big Bear? Want to make it your second home? Give us a call today and we can help you find the perfect Big Bear property for you!