How safe is Big Bear Lake?

With a crime rate of 32 per one thousand residents, Big Bear Lake has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 31.



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Lake Safety There are NO lifeguards on duty and swimmers must stay within 50 feet of the shore or within 20 feet of a private dock. Swimming within the means of participating in water sports is also permitted with a life vest! Each year, Big Bear Lake sees tragic drownings.

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There are no current health advisories for this water body. Conditions may change quickly. Check before entering the water and know how to spot a harmful algal bloom.

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Is Big Bear worth visiting? With so many things to do in Big Bear California, the town is definitely worth visiting. Whether you take a kayak out on the lake, hit the hiking trails, snowboard, or relax by the fire with a glass of wine, you are guaranteed to enjoy your time in Big Bear California.

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What is Big Bear Lake Most Famous For? Big Bear Lake is Southern California's premier 4-season destination. The city offers majestic natural beauty, abundant outdoor recreation, and a laidback vibe. The region combines epic mountain scenery with 22 miles of shoreline.

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This is Where the Stars Live It's rumored that Brittney Spears has a vacation home here, and Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny), Roy Rogers, and Max Factor have all lived here at one time or the other. Who knows who you might spot shooshing down the slopes next to you!

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The lake had fallen to some of its lowest levels in recent decades after one of the worst drought years on record, data show. The decline has for years forced crews to push the docks forward to reach the lake's receding shoreline.

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Based on our Big Bear Lake cost of living calculator, Big Bear Lake is 7% more expensive than the national average and 0% less expensive to live in than the average city in California.

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You may spot critters like squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits who pose little to no threat and are quick to scamper off at the sight of us humans. Rarely, you may spot other wildlife like bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes who are equally averse to humans but can pose a real danger if threatened or afraid.

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The only place you can see Grizzly Bears today is at the Moonridge Animal Park in Big Bear Lake. Years after the demise of the Grizzly, the smaller, less aggressive Black Bear was introduced into the San Bernardino Mountains.

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Best Beaches for Swimming in Big Bear Lake. Meadow Park—in particular, McDill Swim Beach—is perfect for parents wishing to bring their children to a safe place on the lake to swim. A lifeguard remains on duty, and there are water toys, a floating dock, a snack bar, and public restrooms nearby.

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The other route is through the high desert, Victorville and Lucerne Valley area, from Hwy. 15 to Hwy. 18 and up the “back way” to Big Bear. This is probably the safest bet to eliminate traffic and less mountain driving.

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Big Bear has been Hollywood's backdrop for blockbuster movies like Gone with the Wind, Frankenstein, Magnolia, Beethoven's 3rd and War Games as well as numerous TV series and advertising shoots.

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Spring and Fall are usually the best time to come and avoid crowds. During these off peak seasons, there are still plenty of events and things to do in Big Bear. Fishing season starts April 1st, you can take a hike, walk the Alpine Pedal Path, go horseback riding and check out the petting Zoo.

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The lake is home to alligators and crocodiles, and while fishing is allowed, getting a permit is the least of your worries. Gators and crocs wait submerged off-shore for fishermen to hook their lines.

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