Yes, the Big Bear Lake area is home to a wild bear population, though the species present today is not the one that gave the region its name. The region was named “Big Bear” in 1845 after a party led by Benjamin Wilson found the valley heavily populated with California Grizzly Bears (Ursus arctos horribilis). This designation remains long after the original species disappeared, requiring visitors and residents to safely share the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest with the current bear population.
Current Bear Population in Big Bear
The only bear species currently inhabiting the San Bernardino National Forest is the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). This species is not native to Southern California; it was introduced in 1933 after the local Grizzly Bear population became extinct in the early 1900s. These Black Bears were translocated from Yosemite National Park to re-establish a bear presence. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife estimates the statewide Black Bear population to be between 25,000 and 30,000 individuals.
Despite their name, these bears can display various colors, including cinnamon, brown, or blonde coats. Black Bears are generally shy and reclusive, preferring to avoid human contact. They are highly motivated by food, which is the primary cause of human-bear conflict in the area.
Where and When Bear Encounters Occur
Black Bears are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk, when they search for food. This is when the majority of encounters with humans occur, particularly in residential areas bordering the forest. Bears may also be active during the day, especially if natural food sources are scarce or they have learned to access human attractants.
Bear activity is highly seasonal, driven by their annual metabolic needs. Activity increases significantly in the spring when bears emerge from their dens, hungry and searching for calories after hibernation. The most intense period of foraging occurs in the fall, known as hyperphagia, as bears consume up to 20,000 calories a day to build fat reserves before denning for the winter between October and December.
Sightings are most frequent in forested neighborhoods near the Big Bear Village and Upper Moonridge. Bears are often seen near residential trash bins, dumpsters, and campgrounds, as these locations provide easy, high-calorie meals. During periods of drought, when natural food sources are diminished, bears are more likely to venture into human-occupied areas. Encountering signs of bear presence, such as scat or claw marks on trees, is more common than seeing the actual animal.
Essential Safety Practices for Visitors
The most effective way to avoid a bear encounter is to secure all potential food attractants. Visitors must use bear-resistant containers or secured storage lockers for all food, garbage, and scented items, including toiletries and pet food. Never leave food, coolers, or trash unattended in tents or vehicles, as bears can easily break into them if they smell food.
The City of Big Bear Lake has specific regulations regarding trash disposal, including the use of “Clean Bear Sites” for eligible residents and visitors. Garbage must never be left unsecured outside of a residence or campsite. Keeping barbecue grills clean and grease-free is a necessary precaution.
When hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest, making noise is the best practice to avoid surprising a bear. Talking, singing, or periodically calling out alerts bears to your presence, allowing them to move away. It is also recommended to hike in groups and carry EPA-registered bear pepper spray, which contains 1.3% to 2% capsaicin, and know how to use it.
If you do encounter a Black Bear, remain calm and do not run, as running can trigger a chase response. Stand your ground, speak calmly to identify yourself as human, and slowly wave your arms to appear larger. If the bear approaches, shout and act aggressively, for instance, by yelling “Go, Bear, Go!”. In the rare event a Black Bear attacks, you must fight back vigorously using any means necessary.