All kinds of outdoor adventures await you and your family during your next Big Bear Lake, California vacation getaway. You can find many mountains, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation areas just a short distance away from your cabin rental. El Prado is an exciting mountain getaway spot in the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. At an elevation of 5,600 feet, you will experience all kinds of pines and oaks that shade the area during the warm months of summer and get a chance to view the endangered Laguna skipper butterflies. Here is what you can do at El Prado Regional Park:
Campgrounds
El Prado is mostly known for being a campground that allows you to camp out overnight. The grounds allow tent and RV camping and have a facility that provides restrooms and drinking water. There is a fenced off area that was put up to protect the habitat of the endangered butterflies. Visitors are asked to stay within the boundary to protect the wildlife.
Recreation
El Prado finds its home in the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. The area rests off the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,650-mile trail that connects California to Mexico and Canada. Hiking trails found in the vicinity will take you around the mountain with incredible views. Educational programs are hosted during the year at the Laguna Campground where visitors can learn all about the area’s native flora and fauna. A visitor center is also nearby to provide additional educational information for your family.
Finding El Prado
You can find El Prado Regional Park south of Big Bear Lake. It is only a short drive away, with plenty of incredible views along the drive. Make sure to bring any snacks if you are going to stay overnight or just explore the area during the day. Drinking water can be found at the El Prado facility. Firewood is also available for purchase at the campgrounds.
Things to Do Nearby
When you’ve had an amazing time at El Prado and you’re ready to come back and explore the greater Big Bear area, there’s plenty of opportunity for fun awaiting you! Big Bear is a dynamic destination that offers up family-friendly stops as well as off the beaten path locales that make for memorable moments along the way. Here are a few to add to the itinerary when you’re in town.
Visit the Big Bear Solar Observatory
When you travel to Big Bear in the summer months and you’re in the mood for some serious stargazing, make your way to the Big Bear Solar Observatory for a one-of-a-kind experience. This observatory is known for the important scientific data it collects but also offers public tours year-round. While winter stargazing is exciting, the summer months come with a more flexible schedule of tours. Guests participating in these events will hear about the work that’s done at the observatory before having a chance to gaze at the cosmos themselves! The Big Bear Observatory is located at 40386 North Shore Lane and general information on the observatory and tours can be found by contacting 909-866-5791. Reservations are required for tours, but the experience itself comes free of charge.
Explore the Alpine Pedal Path
There’s something special about Big Bear Lake and having the chance to observe and admire it from many angles is key to capturing its beauty! When you’re looking for the perfect spot to do exactly that, the Alpine Pedal Path is the place to be. This paved pathway winds along the northeast side of Big Bear Lake and is a convenient and welcoming place to run, walk or jog around the water. Just over 3 miles in length, the Alpine Pedal Path is convenient for those pushing strollers as well and makes its way directly towards the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Snow Summit
No matter when you make your way to Big Bear, California, a trip to spectacular Snow Summit is always in order. While the winter months see this sprawling resort filled with those passionate about the slopes, the summer months turn this summit into an oasis of hiking and biking fun. Filled with trails and tantalizing views, Snow Summit is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Snow Summit is located at 880 Summit Boulevard and information on group sales and reservations can be found by contacting 909-366-4942.
Booking with Big Bear Cabins
For your next Big Bear Lake vacation getaway, make sure to book with Big Bear Cabins. Our friendly staff will help you find the perfect cabin to stay at during your travels. All cabin rentals are a short distance away from all of the exciting attractions found around Big Bear Lake. Contact us today to help you pick out the perfect rental cabin and plan for your big getaway!
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