Find out when you need to purchase & display an Adventure Pass
At A Glance
Many National Forest trailheads, forest roads, and roadside recreation areas around Big Bear require an Adventure Pass. However, most businesses, marinas, city parks, and developed parking lots do not.
Usually Required
✔ Trailheads in National Forest ✔ Forest access roads ✔ Roadside pullouts on forest land ✔ Undeveloped recreation areas
Usually Not Required
✔ Village parking ✔ City parks ✔ Marinas ✔ Developed parking lots
What is the Adventure Pass
The Adventure Pass is a recreation parking permit used in certain areas managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the San Bernardino National Forest—including parts of Big Bear Lake. It isn’t an entrance fee to visit Big Bear and it doesn’t apply everywhere.
In Big Bear, visitors most commonly encounter Adventure Pass requirements when parking at hiking trailheads, forest access roads, roadside pullouts, and other undeveloped recreation areas on National Forest land.
The easiest way to think about it: if you’re parking in town, developed parks, or most commercial areas, you usually won’t need one. Once you start heading into forest-managed recreation areas, it becomes much more likely.
You May Already Have a Pass
Many visitors don't realize that an Adventure Pass isn't the only option. If you have an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass, you can use it at Adventure Pass locations in Big Bear Lake.
How do I Know if I Need An Adventure Pass
The easiest way to determine whether you need an Adventure Pass is to look at where you're parking. In Big Bear Lake, passes are typically required at many National Forest recreation sites but are not needed at most businesses, city parks, marinas, or developed commercial areas. Use the guide below as a quick reference before you head out.
Look for Signs
Most managed areas have posted notices.
Check Parking Type
Forest-managed areas vs city lots.
When in Doubt—Ask
Discovery Center can usually clarify quickly.
Typically Needed
Hiking Access
Forest Recreation
Roadside Parking
Adventure Pass Pricing
The Adventure Pass is available in daily and annual options, along with several federal recreation passes that are accepted at Adventure Pass locations. The chart below provides a quick comparison of the most common pass types and current pricing.
$5
Daily Pass
$30
Annual Pass
Pricing can change. Verify price before purchasing.
Where to Buy an Adventure Pass
Adventure Passes are available online and at numerous locations throughout Big Bear Lake. Here's where you can purchase one before heading to the trail.
