Big Bear Lake offers so many fun things to do with your pet. From dog-friendly activities to great pet-friendly cabins, you and your furry friend will have such a great trip to Big Bear, California.
As one of the top destination spots in Southern California, Big Bear is only about 2 hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, respectively. This puts it in a great location for the perfect weekend (or longer) getaway, regardless of where you’re traveling from.
Let’s dive into the top dog-friendly activities, top dog-friendly restaurants, pet-friendly cabins, and some bonus tips that will make your vacation with your pet even better.
7 Dog-Friendly Activities in Big Bear Dog-Friendly Spots in Big Bear
Alpine Pedal Path- Immerse yourself in nature with this easily accessible 3.5-mile bike and walking pathway that borders Big Bear Lake and gives you access to several of the lakefront trails.
Big Bear Lake Beaches are all dog-friendly. Enjoy the lake views and go for a swim if the weather is warm enough.
Big Bear Snow Play and Hot Cocktails with Amber- This is a super fun pet-friendly guided hiking experience that isn’t to be missed. Great for first-timers who want to see what beautiful Big Bear has to offer.
Bark Park Big Bear Lake- Take your pup to stretch his or her legs or meet some new friends at this dog park.
Big Bear Marina- Rent a pontoon and bring your dog out on the lake! So fun in the summer!
Big Bear Village- Take your pet shopping in the heart of Big Bear city. Many shops are dog-friendly and some even offer dog treats and water bowls.
San Bernardino National Forest- With so many great trails in this forest, you and your pup will be spoiled for choice. AllTrails makes it easy to filter by dog-friendly trails only so you can easily find something perfect for you both
4 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Big Bear
While not all restaurants in Big Bear are dog-friendly, a few of our favorites are. Most outdoor patios are dog-friendly so finding a great place to eat with your pup is easier to do in summer rather than in winter.
Our favorite dog-friendly Restaurants in Big Bear include:
Nottingham’s Restaurant & Tavern has a large outdoor patio, serves up delicious Bloody Mary’s, and even has a great dog menu.
BLT’s Sandwich Bar & Grill has an outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. They offer some dog items on the menu and will even put your dog’s picture on their website.
Village Pizza is walking distance to Big Bear Village. This pet-friendly restaurant serves great pizza.
Tropicali is our favorite restaurant in Big Bear. We love this place! They have the friendliest staff we've ever met and was voted #1 restaurant in California by Yelp. Seriously the best poke bowl around. Patio dining makes for a great date with your pooch.
Dank Donuts is a great spot to grab, you guessed it, a donut. I bet you wouldn’t expect to be able to get a doggie donut, too. You and Fido can both be happy with a morning treat here.
Dog-Friendly Vacation Rentals
Midnight Moon Cabins has got you covered! Book a stay in one of the best cabins on the mountain. From check-in to check-out, you and your pup will love your Big Bear vacation at Midnight Moon Cabins.
These coveted cabins are all pet friendly and they go above and beyond to make you and your best friend feel welcome. You will find dog bowls, treats, and even poo bags in each cabin, so cleaning up is an easy task. Dog-Friendly Spots in Big Bear
Our beautifully updated luxury cabin rentals welcome dogs and are only a short walk from one of Big Bear Lakes' best hiking trails, Bristlecone Trail.
Our upscale dog-friendly cabins were all built in the ’70s and recently updated to embody a modern cabin experience. Mid-Century modern décor celebrates minimalism and sustainable luxury. All of our cabins come equipped with free wifi, fresh linens, a kitchen, and comfortable furnishings.
You and your pup will both be happy that you went with a Big Bear cabin instead of trying to find a pet-friendly hotel. Cabins will give you both the space to relax, the privacy you’re looking for, and of course, how can a hotel compete with a cozy cabin?
Our Top Dog-Friendly Travel Tips
Enjoy your vacation with minimal stress by taking to heart a few of our top travel tips for pet-friendly travel. As pet owners ourselves, we know just how important it is that you and your pet both have a great, stress-free holiday.
Microchip Your Pet
Is your pet microchipped? More than a million dogs and cats go missing every month in the USA. With a microchip, which can be painlessly inserted by a veterinarian, your pet has a permanent ID.
So if he or she is ever lost or stolen, the finder who takes your pet to a shelter or a veterinarian can help return your pet to you.
Be Winter-Ready
If you’re visiting Big Bear Mountain in the winter, it’s important you come prepared. For dogs that aren’t used to the snow or cold temperatures, you want to make sure they’re comfortable. Be sure you have the best winter gear for your dog so they can enjoy the snow as much as you!
Pack All Their Goodies
After you’ve packed your bags, you need to pack your pets bag, too.
Here’s what we recommend you bring in your doggie suitcase:
leash
dog dish
waste bags
toys
food & treats
collar and tags
a flashlight for walks in the dark
blanket or pet bed
Know Your Pet
The most important tip is to remember, you know your pet. No one knows better than you what will keep your dog happy and feeling safe on the road. Your bond with your pet is strong.
Use it to anticipate his or her wants and needs. Breathe deep, and enjoy your vacation in Big Bear.
With this, you’re ready for a great, dog-friendly vacation to Big Bear, California! Enjoy!
