Explore Big Bear City, CA
Big Bear City, located in the heart of San Bernardino County, California, is an idyllic mountain community that offers a perfect setting for raising children. With its breathtaking natural beauty, friendly neighborhoods, and abundance of educational and entertainment opportunities, Big Bear City stands out as an exceptional place for families. When it comes to education, Big Bear City boasts excellent schools that prioritize the holistic development of children. The Bear Valley Unified School District offers a range of programs and extracurricular activities, ensuring that kids receive a well-rounded education. With dedicated teachers and smaller class sizes, students receive personalized attention and support throughout their academic journey. Beyond academics, Big Bear City offers a plethora of outdoor activities that allow children to connect with nature and foster a love for the great outdoors. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest provides endless opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, and fishing, all within reach of the community. The area's stunning mountains and serene lakes make for a picturesque backdrop where kids can cultivate a sense of adventure and exploration. Moreover, Big Bear City hosts numerous family-friendly events and attractions throughout the year. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo offers an opportunity for children to learn about and interact with local wildlife, while the Big Bear Discovery Center provides hands-on educational experiences focused on the region's natural history. For entertainment, families can enjoy skiing and snowboarding during the winter months at the popular Bear Mountain and Snow Summit ski resorts. The area also offers recreational facilities like parks, playgrounds, and sports complexes, ensuring that kids have ample opportunities for physical activity and social interaction. In summary, Big Bear City, with its strong educational system, abundance of outdoor activities, and family-oriented entertainment options, creates an ideal environment for families looking to raise children in a nurturing and engaging community. From educational pursuits to recreational adventures, Big Bear City offers an enriching and diverse upbringing for kids of all ages.
Activities in Big Bear City
For over 60 years, Camp Oakes has been providing a unique outdoor adventure experience for generations of children, groups, and families. With an array of activities, including fishing, rifles, archery, canoeing, and more, Camp Oakes is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all ages. Our camp staff is attentive and supportive, making sure every camper is given the best possible experience. To ensure the safety of all campers, Camp Oakes is accredited by the American Camp Association, meaning we have passed the highest standards for health and safety set by experts in camp management, risk management, child development, aquatics, and health care.
At daily chapel, campers are exposed to the fundamentals of the YMCA--Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. They are encouraged to think of how they can incorporate these values into their daily lives. Camp Oakes also offers nightly devotionals to help campers develop a sense of spirituality and reflection. During these sessions, campers are able to take part in activities that promote the YMCA’s core values, such as team building and leadership. They are also encouraged to think about how the YMCA’s core values can be applied in their daily lives. With this in mind, campers can develop a sense of character and will have a better understanding of what it means to “be a good person.” The YMCA's mission is to promote strong moral values, and Camp Oakes is proud to uphold this goal. Campers are able to take part in activities that embody the YMCA's core values, while also being exposed to the spiritual uplift that comes with spending time in the mountains. Through daily chapel, nightly devotions, and a range of activities designed to promote friendship and teamwork, campers are able to learn important lessons that they can take home and apply to their lives.