BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. — Big Bear Lake has officially been named the top lake in the United States, taking first place in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. In a double win for the Southern California gem, it also secured the No. 3 spot in the category of “Best Lake for Water Sports.”
The recognition stems from nominations curated by a panel of travel professionals and editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com. After the expert selections, readers nationwide cast their votes online, giving Big Bear Lake the top spot among some of the country’s most iconic lakes, including those in Michigan, New York, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Kentucky.
Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear, shared the community’s excitement over the award. “This is a milestone moment for Big Bear Lake,” he said. “Our lake is a unique natural wonder, and to have it acknowledged by travelers from across the country is incredibly meaningful.”
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Located in California’s only four-season mountain destination, Big Bear Lake offers a mix of outdoor adventure and alpine charm. It spans seven miles in length and reaches up to one mile wide, with a depth of up to 72 feet. With more than 22 miles of accessible shoreline, the lake is a favorite for a wide variety of water activities.
From fishing and paddleboarding to wakeboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and canoeing, Big Bear Lake has something for every type of lake enthusiast. Boating is made easy with two public launch ramps and six full-service marinas that provide equipment rentals, fuel, repairs, and fishing charters.
Visitors looking for a unique on-the-water experience can enjoy a scenic ride aboard one of the lake’s iconic vessels, including the Miss Liberty paddlewheel boat, the Big Bear Queen, the Big Bear Cruiser, and even the playful Big Bear Pirate Ship.
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Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Big Bear Lake offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly fun. For more information or to plan your visit, check out BigBear.com.
