The Desert Adventure

Believe it or not, part of the San Bernardino National Forest is desert! Just beyond the east end of Bear Valley, the arid climate creates a fragile desert ecosystem full of spiny plants and rugged animals. In this land of intensity the deceitful armor of the desert dwellers is a mere disguise for the system's delicate existence.

Big Bear's origins are in the desert itself. The Valley and its surrounding ridges were thrust up out of the desert along the San Andreas fault to form the San Bernardino Mountains. You can see the desert origins in the pinyon and juniper forests. Our desert adventure offers an added bonus -- it's home to one of California's newest wilderness areas, the Bighorn Mountain Wilderness.

Lucerne Valley Car Tour
Get acquainted with the desert through this spectacular drive. In the spring, observe ...

Cactus Flats Off-Highway Vehicle Adventures
Enjoy exhilarating activities for the whole family in this Off-Highway Vehicle recreation ...

Juniper Springs Tour
Get off the beaten path and you may be rewarded with a sighting of wild burros. They have ...

Pacific Crest Trail
Challenge your sense of exploration to find your own version of desert solitude...

Common Flora & Fauna
Look for these common plants and animals on your Desert Adventure ...