Top Five Birding Locations for Big Bear Lake

The San Bernardino National Forest is home to over 290 species of wild birds. Located in the middle of this bird-filled forest, along the Pacific Flyway is Big Bear Lake. To guide your birding experience, Chirp has carefully curated favorite birding hotspots and must-visit wild birding areas around the Big Bear Valley.

1. Bluff Lake

View of Bluff Lake full of water, surrounded by trees

Bluff Lake is a unique 20-acre alpine lake and nature preserve nestled in the National Forest. Look for a variety of wild birds including Gadwalls, Woodpeckers, and Red-Winged Blackbirds. See the detailed Bluff Lake Bird-Watching Guide.

Detailed Guide

2. Sandalwood Marsh

Birder overlooking a marsh and mountains beyond

Sandalwood Marsh is 3 miles from Chirp. With easy parking, a flat road, and lakeshore access, this is perfect for walks with birders of all ages. Keep your eyes open for Song Sparrows, Blue Herons, and Marsh Wrens. See the detailed Sandalwood Marsh Bird-Watching Guide.

Detailed Guide

3. Happy Hills Trail and Metcalf Creek

Hikers walking along paved path

Happy Hills Trail is a short ADA-compliant trail next to the Big Bear Lake City Hall. Continue birding along Metcalf Creek into the forest. While walking, look for the occasional Hawk, Hummingbird, and Western Wood-pewee. See the detailed Happy Hills Trail Bird-Watching Guide.

Detailed Guide

4. Meadow’s Edge

Birders walking along a trail overlooking a lake

Start at Meadow’s Edge Picnic Area and walk along a winding trail parallel to Big Bear Lake’s north shore. A perfect location to search for Pelicans, Swallows, and American Coots, See the detailed Meadow’s Edge Bird-Watching Guide.

Detailed Guide

5. Knickerbocker Canyon

A dirt road winding up into a wooded forest

Knickerbocker Canyon is located .5 miles up Forest Road 2N08, not far from the Big Bear Lake Village. While hiking you may spot Brown Creepers, Woodpeckers, and Chickadees. Your reward at the end of the hike is a spring-fed oasis. Read the detailed Knickerbocker Bird-Watching Guide.

Detailed Guide

 

More Big Bear Lake Bird-Watching Locations

Better Your Birding With The Best Gear

Chirp Nature Center has all the gear and guides you need for your next bird walk. Visit Chirp Nature Center to pick up birding supplies, including guides, checklists, and binoculars. Here are resources and gear we recommend you bring on your next adventure:

  • Trusty Binoculars (shop optics online)
  • Reliable Bird Guide (like Peterson’s Field Guide)
  • The eBird mobile app. (create an eBird account, and download and practice recording sightings with the app)
  • FREE local Wild Bird Checklist (available online, and at Chirp)
  • Comfortable attire (layered clothing and walking or hiking shoes)
  • Camera (or phone with a camera)
  • Water (drinking water is not available at most birding locations)
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunblock (UV rays at altitude are stronger)
  • Snacks (so you have the fuel to bird as long as you want)

When in Big Bear, fly by Chirp’s nest, say hi, and share your bird-watching experiences with us! We look forward to supporting you on all of your wild bird adventures.