Spanning over 20,000 square miles, San Bernardino County is the largest county in the contiguous United States — big enough to fit nine U.S. states inside its borders! This vast playground offers everything from scorching deserts to snow-capped mountains, making it one of California’s most geographically diverse destinations. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities, this expansive county has something for everyone year-round.
Getting to San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County is easily accessible by various transportation methods, with Ontario International Airport (ONT) serving as the main gateway for air travelers. Located in the western part of the county, this airport offers connections to major cities across the United States.
Plan Your Journey to San Bernardino County
Ready to explore America’s largest county? Start by booking your transportation to this diverse destination.
If you’re driving from Los Angeles, the journey east on Interstate 10 takes approximately 1-2 hours depending on your specific destination within the county. From Las Vegas, head southwest on Interstate 15 for about 3-4 hours. The county is also accessible via Amtrak and Greyhound, with stations in San Bernardino city and several other locations throughout the region.
The diverse landscape of San Bernardino County offers everything from desert to mountains
Planning Your San Bernardino County Adventure
Given the county’s enormous size, it’s wise to plan your trip based on specific regions or attractions you want to visit. The western portion includes urban areas like San Bernardino city and Ontario, while the eastern section encompasses vast desert landscapes including parts of the Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree National Park. The mountain regions of Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead lie in the central part of the county.
Where to Stay
From luxury mountain resorts to desert campgrounds, San Bernardino County offers accommodations for every preference and budget. Book your perfect stay to maximize your experience in this diverse region.
Getting Around
With attractions spread across thousands of square miles, having your own transportation is essential for exploring San Bernardino County. Secure a rental car to experience everything this vast region has to offer.
Best Time to Visit San Bernardino County
The ideal time to visit San Bernardino County depends largely on which areas you plan to explore and what activities interest you. The county’s varied elevations create distinct climate zones with different optimal visiting seasons.
Big Bear Lake offers stunning scenery and outdoor activities in all seasons
| Season | Temperature | Best For | Considerations |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 60-85°F (desert) 40-65°F (mountains) | Desert hiking, wildflower viewing, mountain biking | Perfect weather for desert exploration before summer heat |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 95-110°F (desert) 70-85°F (mountains) | Mountain lakes, high-elevation hiking, water activities | Extreme desert heat; avoid desert hiking midday |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 75-95°F (desert) 45-70°F (mountains) | Desert exploration, fall foliage in mountains, rock climbing | Ideal temperatures in most areas; less crowded |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 60-75°F (desert) 25-45°F (mountains) | Skiing, snowboarding, desert hiking | Snow chains needed for mountain roads; perfect desert weather |
For the best overall experience, consider visiting during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when temperatures are moderate throughout most of the county. Winter offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in the mountains, while the desert areas remain pleasantly warm. Summer is ideal for mountain lake activities but can be extremely hot in the desert regions.
Top Attractions in San Bernardino County
From natural wonders to historical sites, San Bernardino County offers diverse attractions that showcase its unique character and landscape. Here are the must-visit destinations that should be on every traveler’s itinerary:
Joshua Tree National Park
The otherworldly landscape of Joshua Tree National Park is a photographer’s paradise
While partially located in Riverside County, Joshua Tree National Park’s northern section falls within San Bernardino County. This desert wonderland features distinctive Joshua trees, massive boulder formations, and starry night skies. Popular activities include rock climbing, hiking, camping, and stargazing.
Explore Joshua Tree National Park
Discover the magic of this desert landscape with a guided tour that reveals the park’s hidden gems and fascinating history.
Big Bear Lake
This alpine lake in the San Bernardino Mountains is a year-round destination. During winter, visitors flock to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain for skiing and snowboarding. Summer brings opportunities for fishing, boating, mountain biking, and hiking. The charming village offers shopping, dining, and accommodation options.
Big Bear Lake transforms into a winter wonderland with popular ski resorts
Experience Big Bear Lake
Make the most of your visit to this mountain paradise with activities for every season.
Calico Ghost Town
Step back in time at this restored 1880s mining town near Barstow. Once a thriving silver mining community, Calico is now a regional park operated by San Bernardino County. Visitors can explore historic buildings, tour a mine, pan for gold, and learn about the Old West through various exhibits and reenactments.
Calico Ghost Town preserves the authentic atmosphere of a 19th-century mining community
Lake Arrowhead
Often called the “Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead offers stunning mountain scenery and a pristine lake. The Lake Arrowhead Village features shopping and dining options, while the surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and water activities. In winter, nearby resorts offer skiing and snowboarding.
Lake Arrowhead’s crystal-clear waters are surrounded by lush pine forests
Route 66 Attractions
San Bernardino County contains a significant stretch of Historic Route 66. Explore this iconic highway by visiting the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, the Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino, and various vintage diners and roadside attractions that preserve the spirit of America’s “Mother Road.”
Historic Route 66 runs through San Bernardino County, offering nostalgic roadside attractions
Outdoor Adventures in San Bernardino County
With its diverse landscapes ranging from desert to alpine, San Bernardino County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to experience:
Hiking & Biking
Explore hundreds of miles of trails across various terrains. Popular hiking destinations include the Pacific Crest Trail sections in the San Bernardino National Forest, the trails around Big Bear Lake, and the unique paths through Joshua Tree National Park.
Winter Sports
The San Bernardino Mountains offer excellent skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Snow Valley Mountain Resort provides additional options for winter sports enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Water Activities
Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Silverwood Lake offer boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports during the warmer months. Lake Gregory in Crestline hosts popular fishing derbies and family-friendly water attractions.
The San Bernardino National Forest offers countless hiking trails with breathtaking views
Adventure Awaits
Discover guided outdoor experiences that showcase the best of San Bernardino County’s natural wonders.
Off-Roading & Desert Exploration
The county’s desert regions offer excellent opportunities for off-road adventures. Johnson Valley OHV Area hosts the famous King of the Hammers off-road race and provides challenging terrain for 4×4 enthusiasts. The Mojave Road offers a historic trail through the desert with camping opportunities along the way.
Johnson Valley offers world-class off-roading opportunities for adventure seekers
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Beyond its natural beauty, San Bernardino County boasts a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. Explore these cultural and historical attractions to gain deeper insight into the region:
San Bernardino County Museum
Located in Redlands, this comprehensive museum showcases the cultural and natural history of the region. Exhibits cover paleontology, geology, archaeology, and the development of the Inland Empire. The museum’s gardens feature native plants and outdoor exhibits that highlight the region’s natural diversity.
The San Bernardino County Museum offers fascinating insights into the region’s natural and cultural history
Victor Valley Museum
This branch of the San Bernardino County Museum in Apple Valley focuses on the natural and cultural history of the High Desert region. Exhibits highlight Native American history, paleontology, geology, and the development of the Victor Valley area. The museum offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.
Original McDonald’s Museum
Visit the site of the original McDonald’s restaurant in San Bernardino, now transformed into a museum dedicated to the history of this global fast-food chain. The museum contains memorabilia, vintage equipment, and photographs documenting the evolution of McDonald’s from a single burger stand to an international corporation.
The Original McDonald’s Museum preserves the history of the world-famous fast-food chain that began in San Bernardino
Family-Friendly Activities in San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County offers numerous attractions and activities perfect for families with children of all ages. Here are some top picks for family-friendly fun:
Glen Helen Regional Park
This expansive park in San Bernardino features two lakes for fishing and swimming, water slides, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts at the Glen Helen Amphitheater. It’s an ideal destination for a family day outdoors with multiple recreational options.
Mojave Narrows Regional Park
Located in Victorville, this park offers fishing lakes, horseback riding trails, camping facilities, and bird watching opportunities. The park’s diverse habitats attract numerous bird species, making it a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts. Regular events include fishing derbies and stargazing nights.
Glen Helen Regional Park offers diverse recreational activities for the whole family
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, San Bernardino County hosts family-friendly events and festivals. The National Orange Show in San Bernardino celebrates the region’s citrus heritage with rides, exhibits, and entertainment. Apple-picking season in Oak Glen offers families the chance to harvest their own fruit and enjoy fresh apple treats. During winter, Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead host festive holiday celebrations with lights, decorations, and special activities.
Create Family Memories
Discover family-friendly tours and activities that will delight visitors of all ages.
Dining and Local Cuisine
San Bernardino County offers diverse dining options reflecting its multicultural heritage and agricultural roots. From farm-to-table restaurants to historic diners along Route 66, the county’s culinary scene has something for every palate.
Regional Specialties
The county is known for its agricultural products, particularly apples from the Oak Glen area. Visit during fall to enjoy fresh apple cider, pies, and other apple-based treats. The region also has a strong Mexican food influence, with numerous authentic taquerias and family-owned restaurants serving traditional dishes.
Oak Glen’s apple orchards produce delicious treats including fresh cider, pies, and caramel apples
Dining Destinations
Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead villages offer charming restaurants with mountain views and locally-inspired cuisine. The historic Route 66 corridor features classic diners and roadside eateries that have been serving travelers for decades. In the more urban western areas, you’ll find everything from international cuisine to farm-to-table establishments highlighting local ingredients.
Mountain Dining
Restaurants in Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead offer cozy atmospheres with hearty mountain fare, often featuring spectacular lake views and locally-sourced ingredients.
Desert Eateries
The high desert communities like Victorville and Barstow feature both chain restaurants and unique local establishments, many with Route 66 themes and history.
Urban Options
The western portion of the county offers diverse dining options, from international cuisine in Ontario to historic establishments in San Bernardino city.
Practical Tips for Visiting San Bernardino County
Make the most of your visit to San Bernardino County with these essential tips and recommendations:
Planning is essential when exploring San Bernardino County’s vast territory
What should I pack for a visit to San Bernardino County?
Pack according to the specific regions you’ll visit and the season. For desert areas, bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), lightweight clothing, and plenty of water. For mountain regions, pack layers as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night. In winter, bring warm clothing and snow gear if visiting mountain areas. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for outdoor activities throughout the county.
How should I prepare for desert exploration?
When exploring desert areas like Joshua Tree or the Mojave Desert, always carry more water than you think you’ll need (at least one gallon per person per day). Inform someone of your itinerary, avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day (10 AM to 4 PM), and check weather forecasts for flash flood warnings. Cell service can be limited, so consider bringing a paper map or downloading offline maps.
What should I know about mountain driving?
Mountain roads to destinations like Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead can be winding and steep. In winter, snow chains may be required, so check road conditions before traveling. Gas up before heading into mountain areas as stations can be limited and prices higher. Allow extra time for mountain driving, especially during peak tourist seasons and winter weekends.
Are there entrance fees for attractions?
Many attractions in San Bernardino County require entrance fees. Joshua Tree National Park charges per vehicle (currently $30 for a 7-day pass). County regional parks typically charge day-use fees ranging from $8-12 per vehicle. Some attractions like Calico Ghost Town have separate admission fees. Consider an America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annually) if you plan to visit multiple national parks or federal recreation sites.
Ready for Your San Bernardino Adventure?
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Experience the Diversity of San Bernardino County
From the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park to the alpine splendor of Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County offers an incredible diversity of experiences within a single destination. This vast playground invites visitors to explore its natural wonders, delve into its rich history, and create unforgettable memories across its mountains, deserts, and lakes.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature, San Bernardino County delivers with its remarkable range of attractions and activities. As the largest county in the contiguous United States, it promises endless discoveries for travelers willing to venture beyond California’s more familiar coastal destinations.
Start planning your journey to this extraordinary region where desert meets mountains, history meets adventure, and every visit reveals new wonders in America’s most geographically diverse county.
The dramatic landscapes of San Bernardino County create unforgettable memories for visitors
