San Bernardino County: The Largest County in the U.S. with Diverse Attractions

Main Attractions in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County boasts a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, cultural sites, and natural wonders. Here are some of the top attractions:

1. Joshua Tree National Park:

Shared with Riverside County, Joshua Tree National Park is a world-renowned destination famous for its unique Joshua trees, rugged rock formations, and desert landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts visit for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and stargazing in the park’s dark, clear skies. Popular spots include Hidden Valley, Skull Rock, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. The park offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the desert.

2. Big Bear Lake:

Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is a year-round resort destination offering outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The Snow Summit and Bear Mountain ski resorts are major draws for winter sports enthusiasts. The charming village of Big Bear is filled with shops, restaurants, and cozy lodges, making it an ideal mountain getaway.

3. San Bernardino National Forest:

This expansive forest covers much of the county’s mountainous regions, offering hiking, camping, and nature exploration opportunities. The forest is home to many scenic trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, which winds through the mountains. Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas, alpine lakes, and wildlife viewing in this natural haven.

4. Route 66:

San Bernardino County is home to one of the most famous stretches of Historic Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road.” Travelers can explore this iconic highway and visit landmarks like the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville. Driving along Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through small desert towns and remnants of mid-20th century Americana.

5. Mojave National Preserve:

Covering over 1.6 million acres of desert, the Mojave National Preserve offers a remote and serene escape into one of California’s most striking desert landscapes. The preserve is known for its vast sand dunes, volcanic cinder cones, Joshua trees, and rugged mountains. Highlights include the Kelso Dunes, the Hole-in-the-Wall rock formations, and the historic Kelso Depot.

6. Calico Ghost Town:

Located near Barstow, Calico Ghost Town is a former mining town turned tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the Old West. Once a bustling silver mining town in the 1880s, Calico has been restored and features historic buildings, mine tours, and reenactments of Western life. It’s a fun and educational destination for families and history buffs.

7. Ontario Mills:

For those who love shopping, Ontario Mills is one of the largest shopping malls in Southern California. The outlet mall features over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for deals and a wide variety of brands.

8. Lake Arrowhead:

Often referred to as the “Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead is a picturesque mountain resort town located in the San Bernardino Mountains. The lake offers boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, while the surrounding area is home to upscale resorts, charming cabins, and the scenic Lake Arrowhead Village, a quaint shopping and dining area.

9. Victor Valley Museum:

Located in Apple Valley, the Victor Valley Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the High Desert region of San Bernardino County. Exhibits focus on Native American history, paleontology, geology, and the development of the Victor Valley.

Famous Cities in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County is home to several well-known cities, each offering its own unique attractions and characteristics:

1. San Bernardino:

The county seat and one of the largest cities in the Inland Empire, San Bernardino is rich in history and culture. Notable attractions include the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum, the National Orange Show Event Center, and California State University, San Bernardino. The city is also home to the original McDonald’s location, now the First Original McDonald’s Museum, which traces the fast-food giant’s early history.

2. Ontario:

Ontario is a bustling city and a major hub for transportation and commerce in the region. Ontario International Airport serves as a gateway to Southern California, while Ontario Mills is a popular shopping and entertainment destination. The city is also known for hosting events at the Toyota Arena and features a growing arts scene with venues like the Ontario Museum of History & Art.

3. Rancho Cucamonga:

Known for its suburban charm and proximity to the San Gabriel Mountains, Rancho Cucamonga offers a mix of outdoor recreation, shopping, and dining. The city is home to the Victoria Gardens shopping mall, as well as the Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail, a scenic route for biking and walking. It’s a family-friendly city with excellent schools and parks.

4. Victorville:

Located along Historic Route 66, Victorville is a gateway to the High Desert region. The city is home to the California Route 66 Museum, which celebrates the history of the famous highway. Victorville also serves as a starting point for those exploring the nearby Mojave Desert and Mojave National Preserve.

5. Barstow:

Barstow is a historic desert town that serves as a key stop on both Route 66 and the Interstate 15 corridor between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The town is known for Calico Ghost Town and its role as a transportation hub for railroads and travelers. Barstow is also home to the Western America Railroad Museum and Outlets at Barstow, a popular shopping destination.

6. Big Bear Lake:

As mentioned earlier, Big Bear Lake is a famous resort town in the San Bernardino Mountains. Its alpine setting, outdoor activities, and ski resorts make it a year-round destination for tourists. In addition to skiing and snowboarding in the winter, Big Bear Lake offers hiking, fishing, and boating in the warmer months.

7. Lake Arrowhead:

A charming mountain village, Lake Arrowhead is known for its stunning lake, luxury resorts, and outdoor recreation. The village around Lake Arrowhead provides a quaint shopping and dining experience with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

8. Twentynine Palms:

Located near the northern entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms is a desert community known for its proximity to the park, as well as the nearby Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. Twentynine Palms offers access to Joshua Tree’s scenic hikes and iconic landscapes, and is known for its vibrant art scene, including numerous murals that depict local history and culture.