June 12, 2025. With summer break already well underway, Big Bear Lake has been named the #1 best lake in the nation. According to USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the four-season alpine destination also pulled in a third-place spot in the ‘Best Lake for Water Sports’ category.
Located in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains just 100 miles from L.A. Big Bear provides elevated thrills for an easy road-trip escape. This ideal mountain getaway is at an altitude of 6,750 ft., with summits reaching up to 9000 ft. The manmade Big Bear Lake stretches 7 miles long and half a mile wide. It reaches one mile across at its widest point, and a maximum depth of 72 ft.
Some of the region’s hottest celebrities know a literal eagle-eye view of the lake is one of the area’s top attractions. The lake provides an ideal backdrop for the live-streaming adventures of Big Bear’s beloved bald-eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow, along with their chicks Sunny and Gizmo.
Beating out renowned spots from across the country, including lakes in New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Kentucky, Big Bear’s recognition as the country’s top lake acknowledges its treasured waters and breathtaking landscape.
Ten Best
A panel of travel experts, including editors from USA Today and 10Best.com, determines the nominations for the prestigious annual awards. Then, the public takes part by voting online. Moreover, opinions from fellow travelers and adventurers help uncover the 10 best across numerous travel and lifestyle categories.
With infinite fishing, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding opportunities, Big Bear goes well beyond its award-winning lake to offer exciting year-round outdoor adventures.
Casago is thrilled to be able to help you plan your next adventure to Big Bear. We invite you to experience the outstanding lake, landscape, mountains, and watersports for yourself! A welcome Big Bear cabin or vacation home awaits!
Contact us today: US & Canada: (805) 979-4350, Mexico: (638) 383-0700
And, don’t miss a minute of the Friends of Big Bear Valley cam:
