Big Bear, California, is located near several iconic national parks. It's only an hour and 15 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park, which offers some of the most unique and beautiful scenery in the Southwest. This park features numerous spots where you'll be able to enjoy incredible desert views. In addition, you'll be able to see the area's famous Joshua trees. These small trees have an unusual twisted, gnarled appearance, unlike anything you can see anywhere else in the world.
Around three and a half hours from Big Bear is Death Valley National Park, which is one of the most famous national parks in the country. Not only is Death Valley well-known for its record-breaking heat and exceptionally arid conditions, but the park also features vast forests and towering mountain ranges. It also offers some of the best opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking in California. Allthough the park can be sweltering in summer, the other three seasons are all beautiful times to visit.
Channel Islands National Park is located three and a half hours from Big Bear, and it offers some of the most beautiful ocean views in the state. The Channel Islands are north of Los Angeles, and you'll be able to take a ferry to the park from the mainland.
Some of the best state parks in the region are Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, Lake Perris State Recreation Area, and Mount San Jacinto State Park. Silverwood Lake and Lake Perris are two of the best spots in the region to enjoy aquatic activities, such as swimming, fishing, and boating.
Mount San Jacinto State Park offers exceptional opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Not only does the summit of this iconic peak offer exceptional views, but you'll be able to enjoy vast areas of pristine wilderness as well. Also, the weather in the park tends to be mild during the summer months.
Lake Perris State Recreation Area includes a beautiful California lake that covers 8,200 acres. This pristine lake offers some of the best opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, and water skiing in the region. The park also offers plenty of beginner-friendly hiking trails to choose from.
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, but it's best-known for the water activities that Silverwood Lake offers. This lake spans 976 acres. Not only does it offer exceptional opportunities for boating, but it's also a perfect spot for swimming and water skiing. It's important to note that there's a 35-mph speed limit for water skiers on the lake.
Big Bear Lake is certainly one of the most unforgettable sights in the region. Not only does this large lake offer plenty of spots for fishing, swimming, and boating, but it's also surrounded by the iconic Sierra Nevada Mountains. In addition, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge offers you an exceptional opportunity to see the region's wildlife in captivity, and it's located within the city limits.
If you're headed to Big Bear Lake, you'll be able to choose from several campgrounds that are located in the region. Rancho Jurupa Park, Yucaipa Regional Park, and Mojave Narrows Regional Park are three of the best campgrounds to park your RV in the region.
Rancho Jurupa Park offers affordable RV parking. It also provides plenty of activities, beautiful scenery, hookups, and an accessible dump station.
Yucaipa Regional Park is known as one of the best campgrounds for RV travelers in California. Not only is located near Big Bear and the area's attractions, but it also offers affordable prices, dump station access, electric hookups, and water hookups.
Mojave Narrows Regional Park offers plenty of spots to enjoy the area's beautiful views. It also offers affordable pricing, a dump station, and convenient access to both water and electric hookups.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Big Bear, CA?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Big Bear, CA, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Big Bear, CA?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.