The Haunting of Captain’s Anchorage

The Legend of George in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is famous for its crisp mountain air, stunning alpine views, and year-round outdoor adventures. But as the sun dips behind the San Bernardino Mountains, a different side of Big Bear comes to light.

The area is steeped in a rich, sometimes turbulent history of Native American heritage, pioneer grit, and gold rush miners. Naturally, this deep history has birthed a vibrant collection of local folklore, urban legends, and spine-chilling ghost stories.



For paranormal enthusiasts and curious foodies alike, there is one historic landmark you absolutely cannot miss: The Captain’s Anchorage. Behind its rustic charm and legendary steaks lies a decades-old mystery—the haunting tale of a resident spirit named George.

The Historic Roots of Captain’s Anchorage

To understand the hauntings, you first have to understand the building's Hollywood roots. Long before it was known as the Captain’s Anchorage, this historic establishment opened its doors as the Sportsman’s Tavern.

The tavern was originally owned by Andy Devine, a beloved American character actor born in 1905. Known for his distinctive raspy voice and jovial personality, Devine was a Hollywood staple. He famously played John Wayne’s sidekick, Buck, in the Western classic Stagecoach (1939) and later voiced the iconic Friar Tuck in Disney’s animated Robin Hood (1973).



The Sportsman’s Tavern was a popular mountain getaway for celebrities and locals alike. But during its heyday, a dark cloud settled over the property when the tavern's accountant, a man named George, met a tragic and mysterious end.

The Untimely Demise and Missing Money of George the Accountant

While official records from the era are murky, local legend has spun a captivating web around George’s final days.

The story goes that George was quietly embezzling a massive sum of money from the tavern. Before he could be caught or the missing funds recovered, George died on the property under highly suspicious circumstances. While some theories suggest he took his own life out of guilt or fear of prison, many locals suspect foul play.



To this day, the truth behind his death—and the final resting place of the stolen money—remains entirely unknown. It is believed that George’s spirit never left the building, trapped in a state of limbo, forever guarding his secrets.

Paranormal Activity: Poltergeists in the Kitchen

Over the decades, dozens of employees and guests at Captain’s Anchorage have reported unexplainable phenomena. If you speak to the staff today, many will freely admit that George is still very much a part of the evening shift.

Common reports of paranormal activity include:

• The Phantom Chef: Staff members closing up alone have frequently reported the loud clattering of pots and pans coming from an entirely empty kitchen.
• Disembodied Footsteps: Heavy, measured footsteps and sudden thuds are regularly heard echoing from the upper levels when no one is upstairs.
• Playful Poltergeist Mischief: George is notorious for hiding silverware, salt shakers, and glassware. Servers will set a table, turn around for a moment, and return to find the settings completely rearranged or hidden in obscure corners of the restaurant.
  

Up the Stairs: The Captain's Club Room

If you want to get closer to the heart of the mystery, you need to head upstairs. The upper level houses the Captain’s Club Room, an area rich with historical energy and the undeniable feeling of being watched.

Insider Tip for Visitors: When you visit, grab a seat at the downstairs bar. The resident bartender is a treasure trove of local lore and absolutely loves to tell firsthand stories about George’s recent antics.

If the bartender is busy, don't hesitate to ask your servers about their own experiences. Nearly everyone who works at Captain's Anchorage has a "George story"—from sudden temperature drops to witnessing objects slide across tables entirely on their own.

Experience the Supernatural: Haunted Events at Captain's Anchorage

The owners and staff don't shy away from their resident ghost; instead, they embrace him. Captain’s Anchorage regularly capitalizes on its spooky reputation by hosting special events centered around the hauntings.



From themed ghost-hunting dinners and paranormal investigations to historic storytelling nights, these events offer amateur sleuths and horror fans a chance to experience the restaurant's eerie atmosphere after hours. Keep an eye on their local event calendar, especially as the autumn season approaches.

Planning Your Visit

Whether you are a devout believer in the supernatural or a skeptic who just appreciates an incredible prime rib, Captain's Anchorage offers an unforgettable dining experience. You can indulge in premium steaks and seafood, soak up the nostalgic Hollywood memorabilia, and keep a watchful eye on your wine glass—just in case George decides he wants a sip.

• Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
• What to order: The Prime Rib or the Salmon.
• Don't forget: Walk upstairs to the Captain's Club Room and ask the staff, "Has George been behaving himself tonight?"