If you’re staying in the San Bernardino Mountains and want a lake day with something for everyone, Lake Gregory Regional Park in Crestline is worth adding to your plans. The park sits in a cedar and pine forest at elevation, which means cooler temperatures, cleaner air, and a slower pace than the valley below.
For guests staying at Wild Olive Cabins in Running Springs, the park is an easy drive — around 25 to 30 minutes under normal conditions — which makes it a natural day trip during a mountain getaway.
Between the swim beaches, inflatable waterpark, waterslides, splash pad, kayak and boat rentals, year-round fishing, a 2.3-mile nature trail loop, dog parks, a skate park, and picnic areas, there’s enough at Lake Gregory to fill a full day without rushing. This guide covers what’s available, when to visit, what things cost, and how to plan your time.
What Is Lake Gregory Regional Park?
Lake Gregory Regional Park is built around an 84-acre lake in the mountain community of Crestline, California, in the San Bernardino Mountains. The lake surface sits at roughly 4,550 feet, and the surrounding park covers around 150 acres of shoreline, forest, and recreation areas. Crestline is home to about 11,000 residents, and the park draws more than 100,000 visitors a year.
The lake is owned by San Bernardino County and managed by San Bernardino County Regional Parks, with day-to-day operations run by concessionaire the Lake Gregory Community Recreation Company since 2021.
The park mixes year-round and seasonal activities. Fishing, hiking, and non-powered boating run all year. The swim beaches, waterslides, inflatable waterpark, and splash pad are seasonal, operating between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The nature trail, dog parks, skate park, and sports courts are open regardless of season.
Summer is the busiest and most activity-rich time to visit, when the full range of water attractions is running. The shoulder seasons suit hikers and anglers particularly well — spring and autumn bring cooler temperatures, thinner crowds, and a quieter lake.
Where Is Lake Gregory Regional Park?
Address: 24171 Lake Drive, Crestline, CA 92325
Lake Gregory sits within Crestline, in the Crest Forest district of the San Bernardino Mountains. Lake Drive loops around the lake and gives access to the main facilities, including the boathouse, north shore beach area, Bait & Tackle shop, and parking.
Crestline is well positioned for visitors coming from several directions. Twin Peaks, Cedar Glen, and Lake Arrowhead are all a short drive away, and Los Angeles is about 70 miles to the south-west, which puts the lake within day-trip range for much of Southern California.
How Far Is Lake Gregory From Running Springs?
From Running Springs, Lake Gregory is roughly 25 to 30 minutes by car. The route runs along State Route 18, the Rim of the World Highway, so travel time varies with traffic, weather, and seasonal road conditions. On busy summer weekends, expect some congestion approaching Crestline.
For guests staying in Running Springs, that’s close enough for a relaxed morning departure. You can arrive when the beach opens at 10 a.m., spend the full day, and be back at your cabin in time for a comfortable evening.
Why Visit Lake Gregory?
A few things set Lake Gregory apart from other Southern California day-trip options:
- Mountain scenery. The park sits in a true alpine environment, ringed by pines and cedars with open lake views.
- Cooler temperatures. In summer, the mountains run well below the Inland Empire and the LA basin — often 10 to 20 degrees cooler, which makes a full day outdoors far more comfortable.
- Activity range. Fishing at dawn, paddling mid-morning, swimming in the afternoon, walking the trail at sunset — there’s enough variety to fill very different kinds of days.
- Family accessibility. The park is set up for a range of ages, from toddler splash pads to waterslides for older kids to fishing and boat rentals for adults.
- Relaxed atmosphere. Outside peak summer Saturdays, the park rarely feels overcrowded.
Things to Do at Lake Gregory Regional Park
Go Swimming at Lake Gregory
Lake Gregory has designated swim beaches on the north and south shores where visitors can cool off during the summer season. The beach area gives families a proper lakeside day — sand, water, mountain views, and space to set up.
Swimming is seasonal, running between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The 2026 season runs from 23 May through 7 September, but the early weeks are not continuous: the beach opened for Memorial Day weekend, then ran selected weekends with closures through to 11 June, with the full daily season starting 12 June. If you’re planning a visit in late May or early June, check the operating calendar at lakegregory.com before you drive up.
Beach access is a day pass at $17 per person, which covers park entry, the beach, and the splash pad. Children 3 and under are free. Passes can be bought online in advance or at the gate, and online is the safer option on busy days. Note that day passes do not include parking, which is charged separately.
Frequent visitors may find a summer membership works out cheaper — memberships start at around $45 a month and include benefits such as parking and fishing.
What to bring for a beach day:
- Swimsuits and towels
- Sunscreen (elevation means stronger UV exposure)
- Water and snacks
- Beach chairs or a blanket
- Sunglasses and hats
- A waterproof bag for valuables
- A change of clothes for the drive home
Try the Lake Gregory Waterpark
One of the park’s main summer draws is its inflatable waterpark, with obstacle courses and floating splash islands out on the lake. It’s especially popular with older children and teenagers who want more than a straightforward swim. The waterslides are equally busy on hot weekends.
The All-Access Day Pass at $32 per person covers park entry, the beach, the splash pad, the waterslides, and the inflatable waterpark. As with the beach pass, parking is charged separately. Tickets are released in batches through the season and popular dates sell out, so book online before you travel.
One thing worth knowing before you buy: the operator advises that the waterslides and inflatable waterpark are not recommended for people who are pregnant, have a pre-existing heart condition, have had recent surgery or a joint replacement, or have back or neck trouble. The park’s full safety guide is on its website.
Let Younger Kids Play at the Splash Pad
For families with toddlers or younger children who aren’t ready for the lake and the inflatables, the splash pad is a gentler, ground-level option with sprinklers and fountains. It’s included with the general beach pass and doesn’t require strong swimmers.
The splash pad follows the same seasonal schedule as the swim beach. It works well for families with a spread of ages — younger kids can stay at the splash pad while older ones head for the lake or the slides.
A few tips for visiting with toddlers:
- Bring water shoes, as surfaces can get warm and slippery
- Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply often
- Pack a dry change of clothes and a light layer for shade breaks
- Arrive early on hot days for the best shot at shaded seating
Go Fishing at Lake Gregory
Lake Gregory has a strong reputation for trout fishing in Southern California and draws a steady crowd of anglers. Fishing is open daily from sunrise to sunset, year-round.
The lake is stocked through the year. In 2026 the park stocked 1,000 lbs of Calaveras trout on 7 May and again on 14 May, followed by 1,000 lbs of catfish on 12 June and 1,500 lbs on 17 July. Current stocking dates are posted on the park’s website and social channels.
What you need to fish at Lake Gregory:
- A Lake Gregory Fishing Day Pass ($15/day, or $125 for an annual pass). San Bernardino County requires all its regional parks to collect this fee, and it helps fund stocking.
- A valid California State Fishing Licence, required for anglers aged 16 and over
- Both can be bought at the on-site Bait & Tackle shop or online at lakegregory.com/fishing
The Bait & Tackle shop is open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily and carries rods, bait, tackle, and gear, along with snacks and drinks. Rod and boat rentals are available there too, though walk-up availability is limited — pre-booking through the boathouse is more reliable. A personal boat launch pass is $10 a day if you’re bringing your own vessel.
If you plan to keep what you catch, check the current California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment advisory for Lake Gregory first, as the state publishes safe-eating guidance for fish from many Southern California lakes.
Rent a Kayak, Canoe, or Paddle Boat
Non-powered boating runs year-round, and the boathouse (open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last rental going out at 4 p.m.) offers a solid range of options.
Rentals available at Lake Gregory:
- Kayaks
- Canoes
- Row boats
- Stand-up paddleboards
- Duffy boats
- Pedal boats (up to 2 people, ages 18+) — reserved at the boathouse
- Swan pedal boats (up to 3 people, ages 18+) — reserved at the boathouse
Rates run roughly $15 to $20 per hour depending on the vessel. Kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddleboards, and Duffy boats can be booked online in advance; pedal boats and swan boats are reserved at the boathouse itself. Same-day enquiries for any vessel go through the boathouse.
Cabanas, cove cabanas, and shaded grill rentals are available between Memorial Day and Labor Day and require advance reservation. New for 2026, the park also added floating cabanas out on the lake, reached by a floating dock so you can get to them without getting wet — a good option if you want to be close to the inflatables while the kids play. Availability is limited, so book early.
For couples, a kayak or canoe gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Families often prefer a row boat or pedal boat with younger children. Larger groups tend to enjoy the Duffy boats, which carry more passengers and move at an unhurried pace.
Walk or Hike Around Lake Gregory
The 2.3-mile Nature Trail Loop circles the lake and is one of the more accessible trails in the San Bernardino Mountains. It’s a well-maintained path with consistent lake views, pine and cedar forest, and fitness stations along the way.
The trail suits most fitness levels and isn’t especially strenuous, which makes it a good morning walk before the crowds build or a late-afternoon wind-down after a day at the beach. Different sections give different perspectives on the lake, and wildlife sightings — birds, squirrels, the occasional deer — are common. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail.
Hiking hours run sunrise to sunset, and no pass is required for the trail itself, though parking is still charged. A trail map is available on AllTrails; note that downloading maps for offline use is a paid AllTrails feature, so plan accordingly if you want navigation without signal.
Visit the Lake Gregory Dog Parks
Lake Gregory is dog-friendly in designated areas. There are two gated dog park locations — one at the South Shore parking lot (24442 San Moritz Drive) and one at the San Moritz parking lot (24640 San Moritz Drive) — with separate areas for large and smaller dogs. They’re open sunrise to sunset and free to use, though parking is charged.
Outside the designated dog parks, dogs must be leashed. Dogs are not permitted on the beach, in the swimming area, at events, or in any gated park areas, with the exception of registered service animals.
A few of the posted dog park rules worth knowing before you go: handlers must be at least 16, children under 13 must be supervised by an adult, owners must stay inside the park with a leash to hand, and waste must be cleaned up immediately. Bring waste bags and water, and make sure your dog is comfortable around other dogs before entering the off-leash areas.
Have a Picnic by the Lake
Picnic areas, tables, grills, and shelters are spread throughout the park, including spots with direct lake views. Pack a meal from a Crestline deli or make something at your cabin and find a spot with a view.
Good picnic packing list:
- Pre-made sandwiches, wraps, or a charcuterie-style spread
- Fruit, chips, and easy snacks
- Plenty of water
- A blanket or portable chairs
- Reusable containers to cut down on waste
If you’d rather not carry food in, the Lakeside Grill at the park serves meals and drinks through the season, and there’s a snack bar on site as well.
For a quieter picnic, weekday mornings and early afternoons in spring and autumn are noticeably calmer. On peak summer weekends, the best lakeside spots fill by mid-morning, so arriving early helps. Shaded grill rentals are also available between Memorial Day and Labor Day if you want reserved space and a more structured setup.
Enjoy the Skate Park and Sports Areas
For families spending a full day in the area, the park’s other recreational facilities give kids more to do between water activities:
- A skate park
- Basketball courts and sand volleyball
- Playground areas, including a new playground that opened in May 2026
These are free to use and don’t require a beach pass, though parking still applies. Note that the new playground is at the Lakeside Meadow site (24640 San Moritz Drive) rather than beside the north shore beach, so factor in a short drive or walk if you’re planning to move between the beach and the playground.
Lake Gregory Regional Park for Families
Lake Gregory works well for families because it serves different ages without forcing everyone into the same activity. Parents with toddlers, school-age children, and teens can each find something that fits.
| Age Group | Recommended Activities |
| Young children (toddlers) | Splash pad, playground, picnic areas, easy lakeside walks |
| Older children (school-age) | Swimming, waterslides, inflatable waterpark, pedal boats |
| Teenagers | Waterslides, inflatable waterpark, kayaking, skate park |
| Adults | Fishing, kayaking and boating, nature trail, picnicking, scenic relaxation |
Best Things to Do at Lake Gregory With Kids
The most practical approach is to build the day around the swim beach and waterpark during peak hours, with a walk on the nature trail or time at the playground as a morning warm-up or afternoon wind-down.
Younger children need constant supervision near the water. Lifeguards are on duty at the swim beach during the summer season, but parents should stay attentive regardless. The splash pad is entirely ground-level and a better fit for children who aren’t ready for the lake.
For the waterslides and inflatable waterpark, check the schedule online and buy tickets in advance. Popular summer weekends sell out.
Is Lake Gregory Good for a Family Day Trip?
Yes — a family day trip is very doable in a single day, especially from Running Springs. A realistic framework:
- Morning (10 a.m.–12 p.m.): Arrive, walk the nature trail, rent a boat
- Midday (12–3 p.m.): Swim beach, splash pad, waterslides, inflatable waterpark
- Afternoon (3–5 p.m.): Picnic lunch or a meal at the Lakeside Grill, then the skate park or sports courts
Beach and boathouse hours run 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., which gives you a comfortable seven-hour window, with the last boat rental going out at 4 p.m. Families who arrive at opening tend to have an easier time with parking and access to the busier areas.
Lake Gregory Regional Park for Couples
Lake Gregory also suits couples who want a low-key day in the mountains. The pace is relaxed outside peak summer, and the lake makes a fine backdrop for an unhurried afternoon.
A good day at the park for couples might look like:
- A morning walk on the 2.3-mile nature trail before the crowds arrive
- A kayak or canoe rental to get out on the water
- Lunch at the Lakeside Grill or along Lake Drive in Crestline
- An afternoon swim in season, or time by the water with a book
- A walk through Crestline before heading back to Running Springs
Romantic Things to Do Around Lake Gregory
| Time of Day | Activity |
| Early morning | Nature trail loop — quiet and scenic before the beach opens |
| Late morning | Coffee or breakfast in Crestline before heading to the park |
| Midday | Kayak or canoe rental on the lake |
| Afternoon | Picnic by the water, or swimming in season |
| Late afternoon | Browse Crestline’s shops and restaurants along Lake Drive |
| Evening | Return to your Running Springs cabin for a quiet mountain evening |
The appeal of Lake Gregory for couples is that it doesn’t demand a packed itinerary. Doing less here tends to feel like exactly enough.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Lake Gregory?
Lake Gregory in Spring
Spring is underrated. Fishing picks up as the lake is stocked with trout through April and May, the nature trail is at its most pleasant without summer heat, and crowds are far lighter than in July and August. Snow may still sit on the higher peaks while the forest fills in below.
For guests arriving in late May, the summer season opens on Memorial Day weekend, so you may catch spring hiking and the first beach days in the same visit — just check which days the beach is actually open, as early-season operation is limited.
Lake Gregory in Summer
Summer is peak season. The full range of activities is available, the water is warm enough for comfortable swimming, and the gap between mountain temperatures and valley heat makes the park a genuine relief.
Expect larger crowds, especially at weekends and holidays. Independence Day weekend draws the biggest attendance of the year, with the park’s fireworks show held on the Friday before the Fourth (3 July in 2026) and Crestline’s Jamboree Days parade and festival the following day. If you’re planning a summer visit, particularly with kids, book passes well ahead.
Lake Gregory in Autumn
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, changing light in the forest, and noticeably fewer visitors. Fishing continues — the lake is open sunrise to sunset year-round — and the nature trail is at its best when the air turns crisp and the park quietens down.
For guests staying in Running Springs in September or October, Lake Gregory makes a good morning excursion before exploring Crestline’s shops and restaurants.
Lake Gregory in Winter
Winter narrows the park’s offerings considerably. The swim beaches, waterslides, waterpark, and splash pad are closed, and services scale back. Fishing remains open sunrise to sunset, the boathouse operates year-round, and the nature trail is accessible on clear days.
Mountain weather changes fast in winter. Snow and ice on mountain roads are a real possibility between late November and March, and tyre chain requirements can come into effect. Always check road conditions and the forecast before driving up.
Lake Gregory Regional Park Hours and Admission
Lake Gregory Hours
| Facility | Hours |
| Office & Boathouse | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, year-round (last boat rental 4 p.m.) |
| Bait & Tackle Shop | 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. daily |
| Fishing, hiking, parking, personal boat launch | Sunrise – sunset daily, year-round |
| Swim beaches, waterslides, inflatables, splash pad | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., seasonal (Memorial Day – Labor Day) |
| Dog parks | Sunrise – sunset daily |
Hours can change for special events, holidays, and county regulations. Confirm current hours at lakegregory.com before your visit.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Lake Gregory?
2026 rates. Pricing is subject to change — check lakegregory.com for current information before your trip.
| Activity / Pass | 2026 Price |
| Beach Access Day Pass (park entry, beach, splash pad) | $17/person/day |
| All-Access Day Pass (beach + splash pad + waterslides + inflatable waterpark) | $32/person/day |
| Fishing Day Pass | $15/person/day |
| Fishing Annual Pass | $125/year |
| Personal Boat Launch | $10/day |
| Boat Rentals | $15–$20/hour |
| Summer Memberships | From around $45/month |
| Cabanas, cove cabanas, floating cabanas, shaded grills | Reservation required; see lakegregory.com |
| Dog parks, nature trail, skate park, sports courts | No pass required (parking charged separately) |
Children 3 and under are free for beach and fishing. Parking is charged separately from all day passes, including the All-Access pass, and annual parking passes are available. A California State Fishing Licence is separate from the Lake Gregory fishing pass and is required for anglers 16 and over.
Do You Need a Reservation for Lake Gregory?
Some activities benefit from advance booking, and a few effectively require it:
- Beach and waterpark passes: Online purchase is strongly recommended for summer weekends and holidays. Tickets are released in batches and peak dates sell out.
- Boat rentals: Pre-booking online secures your vessel. Pedal boats and swan boats are reserved at the boathouse. Walk-up rentals are available but not guaranteed.
- Cabanas, cove cabanas, and floating cabanas: Advance reservation required; available Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Shaded grill rentals: Reservation required.
For weekday visits in spring or autumn, walk-up availability is usually fine. For summer weekends, planning ahead makes a real difference.
Lake Gregory Parking and Getting There
Where to Park at Lake Gregory
Parking is available at several lots around the park, including the north shore, south shore, and San Moritz lots. On peak summer days, particularly holiday weekends, spaces fill quickly after mid-morning. Arriving within the first hour of opening is the most reliable way to park without stress.
Parking fees are separate from activity passes, and annual parking passes are available for regular visitors. Check lakegregory.com/parking for current fees.
Driving to Lake Gregory From Running Springs
From Running Springs, the drive takes about 25 to 30 minutes via State Route 18, the Rim of the World Highway. These are mountain roads, so speed limits are lower and the drive asks more attention than a freeway run. A navigation app helps, as there are several route options through the mountain communities.
On busy summer weekends, allow extra time for backups approaching Crestline. Arriving close to 10 a.m. gives you the best window before midday crowds build.
Driving to Lake Gregory From Los Angeles
Lake Gregory is roughly 70 miles from Los Angeles, which makes it one of the more accessible mountain recreation areas in Southern California. Drive time varies a great deal with traffic — Friday afternoons and holiday weekends can add substantially to any estimate — so a navigation app with live traffic is the practical approach.
Most routes come up either via State Route 138 from the west and Interstate 15, or via State Route 18 up from San Bernardino. Either way, the road transitions from freeway to mountain highway as you climb, and the change in scenery is part of what makes the destination feel removed from urban Southern California.
What to Know About Mountain Roads
- Weather conditions: Mountain weather changes quickly. Rain at lower elevations may be snow at 4,500 feet. Check forecasts before leaving.
- Road closures: Caltrans can close mountain highways for snow, ice, or mudslides, sometimes with little notice.
- Chain requirements: During winter storms, tyre chain controls may be enforced on State Routes 18, 138, and 330. If you’re visiting between November and April, carry chains.
- Weekend traffic: Sunny summer weekends generate heavy traffic on the mountain highways, and access roads into Crestline can back up by mid-morning.
- Navigation: Download maps before you set off — mobile coverage is patchy in the mountains.
What to Bring to Lake Gregory
For a Summer Beach Day
- [ ] Swimsuits and towels
- [ ] Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher; reapply often at elevation)
- [ ] Water — at least 2 litres per person
- [ ] Sunglasses and wide-brim hats
- [ ] Beach chairs or a blanket
- [ ] Snacks or a packed lunch
- [ ] Waterproof bag for phones and valuables
- [ ] A change of clothes for the drive home
For Fishing
- [ ] Lake Gregory Fishing Day Pass (online or on-site)
- [ ] Valid California State Fishing Licence (ages 16+)
- [ ] Rod, reel, bait, and tackle (or buy and rent at the Bait & Tackle shop, open 7 a.m.–3 p.m.)
- [ ] Layers — mornings can be cool even in summer
- [ ] Snacks and water for a full day on the water
For Hiking
- [ ] Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with grip
- [ ] Water (at least 1 litre per person)
- [ ] Sunscreen and a hat
- [ ] Light layers — shaded sections of the trail run cooler
- [ ] Snacks for energy
- [ ] A charged phone, with maps downloaded in advance where possible
For Visiting With Dogs
- [ ] Leash (required outside the designated dog parks)
- [ ] Portable water bowl and water
- [ ] Waste bags
- [ ] Important: Dogs are not permitted on the swim beach, in the swimming area, at events, or in gated park sections — plan accordingly.
Tips for Visiting Lake Gregory Regional Park
Arrive Early During Summer
Parking fills, beach spots fill, and rental queues grow as the morning goes on. Arriving at or before 10 a.m. gives you the best parking, the best access, and a calmer start to the day.
Check the Official Schedule Before You Go
The seasonal attractions — swim beaches, waterslides, and inflatable waterpark — run on a schedule that shifts, particularly in late May and early June. Weather, county regulations, and staffing all affect what’s open on a given day. Check lakegregory.com and the park’s social channels before you set off.
Book Popular Rentals in Advance
Boats, cabanas, and shaded grill areas should be reserved before your trip, especially for summer weekends. Bookings run through lakegregory.com/activities-and-rentals. Walk-up availability exists but isn’t guaranteed for the most popular options, and the last boat goes out at 4 p.m.
Check the Weather Before Leaving Your Cabin
Mountain weather in Running Springs or Crestline can differ from what your phone shows for nearby lower-elevation areas. Summer afternoons can bring thunderstorms; spring and autumn mornings run much cooler than midday. Check a mountain-specific forecast and bring layers whatever the season.
Follow Posted Park Rules
The park posts clear rules around swimming, dog access, fishing, and boating safety. The key ones:
- Dogs must be leashed outside the designated dog parks
- Dogs are not allowed on the swim beach, at events, or in gated areas (registered service animals excepted)
- A Lake Gregory fishing pass and a California State fishing licence are both required to fish
- An All-Access pass is required for the waterslides and inflatable waterpark
- Minors must be supervised by an adult at all times
Nearby Things to Do After Visiting Lake Gregory
Lake Gregory pairs well with a wider San Bernardino Mountains itinerary.
Explore Crestline
Crestline’s town centre along Lake Drive is worth a walk after a day at the park. Local shops, cafes, and eateries are within easy reach of the park entrance, and the town has a quieter, more local feel than some of the larger resort communities nearby. The historic San Moritz Lodge, used for weddings and events, sits within the park itself. Explore Crestline further here.
Visit Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead is roughly 20 to 25 minutes from Lake Gregory and offers a different kind of mountain lake experience. Lake Arrowhead Village has waterfront dining, shops, and boat tours, with a more developed resort atmosphere. It’s a natural add-on to a Crestline day trip. Plan your Lake Arrowhead visit here.
Explore Running Springs
Running Springs is the closest community to Wild Olive Cabins and has its own local dining, hiking access, and mountain attractions. It works as a practical base for everything from Lake Gregory to Big Bear, without the crowds and costs of the more tourist-heavy towns. Get the full Running Springs guide here.
Visit SkyPark at Santa’s Village
SkyPark at Santa’s Village is a short drive from Running Springs and offers a family-friendly adventure park with mountain biking trails, hiking, a zipline, aerial adventures, and seasonal events. It complements a day at Lake Gregory — different in character, equally suited to families and outdoor enthusiasts. Read our full guide to SkyPark here.
Explore the San Bernardino National Forest
The national forest surrounding the mountain communities offers hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and more remote outdoor recreation. Trails in the Crest Forest area vary in difficulty, and many can be reached directly from Running Springs or Crestline without a long drive.
A Lake Gregory Day Trip From Running Springs
Here’s a practical framework for a Lake Gregory day trip from Running Springs.
Morning: Head to Crestline
Leave your cabin by about 9:15 a.m. to allow for the drive and early parking. Stop for coffee or breakfast in Crestline if you like — there are several local spots along Lake Drive and in town. Aim to arrive close to the 10 a.m. opening.
Late Morning: Explore the Lake
Before the heat builds and the beach fills, late morning is ideal for a walk on the nature trail, a boat rental, or a quiet stretch of fishing. The lake is calmer early, and rental queues are shorter.
Afternoon: Swimming and Water Activities
By midday the beach is in full swing and the waterslides and inflatable waterpark are running. This is the time to hit the water — the lake has warmed up and the park is at its liveliest. With kids, plan for two to three hours of water time.
Late Afternoon: Explore Crestline
By 3 or 4 p.m., start winding down and take a walk into Crestline’s town centre. Browse the shops, grab a late lunch or early dinner, and take in the town before the drive back.
Evening: Return to Your Running Springs Cabin
The drive back takes around half an hour, putting you at the cabin well before sunset. An evening on the deck with a meal cooked from ingredients picked up along the way, with the sounds of the forest around you, is one of the better parts of a stay in Running Springs. Lake Gregory gives you a full, varied day out, and the cabin gives you somewhere quiet to land at the end of it.
Where to Stay Near Lake Gregory Regional Park
Stay in Running Springs for Easy Access to Mountain Attractions
Running Springs gives you a central mountain location without the congestion of staying directly in Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead. From here you’re within easy driving distance of Lake Gregory, SkyPark at Santa’s Village, the San Bernardino National Forest, Snow Valley Mountain Resort, and a number of quieter hiking areas.
Spreading your stay across several days, rather than squeezing everything into one day trip from the valley, turns the San Bernardino Mountains into a relaxing trip rather than a rushed one.
Wild Olive Cabins
Wild Olive Cabins offers cosy mountain cabin rentals in Running Springs, California. The cabins give you a comfortable, private base for exploring the surrounding mountain communities — close enough to Lake Gregory, Crestline, and Lake Arrowhead to make day trips easy, and far enough from each to offer real quiet when you return in the evening.
After a full day at Lake Gregory — swimming, hiking, fishing, or simply sitting by the water — coming back to a cabin in the mountains beats a hotel or a long drive home. If you’re planning a San Bernardino Mountains getaway, Wild Olive Cabins is worth a look as your base.
Make Lake Gregory Part of Your Mountain Getaway
Lake Gregory works best as one piece of a wider mountain itinerary. A multi-day stay lets you spend a morning fishing, an afternoon at the beach, a day exploring Crestline and Lake Arrowhead, and still fit in a forest hike before heading home. The mountain communities here sit close enough together to move between easily, and differ enough from each other that every one adds something to the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Gregory Regional Park
Where is Lake Gregory Regional Park?
Lake Gregory Regional Park is at 24171 Lake Drive, Crestline, CA 92325, in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Is Lake Gregory open to the public?
Yes. Fishing, hiking, parking, and the dog parks are open sunrise to sunset year-round. The boathouse runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and the swim beaches and water attractions operate 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the summer season. Some facilities require paid passes; the trail, dog parks, and skate park do not, though parking is charged.
Can you swim in Lake Gregory?
Yes, in the designated beach areas during the summer season, between Memorial Day and Labor Day. A beach access pass is required, and early-season days are limited, so check the schedule before visiting.
Does Lake Gregory have a waterpark?
Yes. Lake Gregory has an inflatable waterpark with floating splash islands and obstacle courses, plus waterslides. Both are seasonal and included with the All-Access Day Pass.
Can you fish at Lake Gregory?
Yes. Fishing is available year-round, sunrise to sunset daily. A Lake Gregory Fishing Day Pass ($15 in 2026) and a valid California State Fishing Licence (for anglers 16 and over) are both required.
Do you need a fishing licence at Lake Gregory?
Yes. A California State Fishing Licence is required in addition to the Lake Gregory fishing pass. The Bait & Tackle shop sells passes, or you can buy your state licence online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Can you rent kayaks at Lake Gregory?
Yes. Kayaks, canoes, row boats, stand-up paddleboards, and Duffy boats can be booked online or at the boathouse; pedal boats and swan pedal boats are reserved at the boathouse. Advance booking is recommended in summer, and the last rental goes out at 4 p.m.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Gregory?
Dogs are welcome in designated areas, including two gated dog park locations with separate spaces for large and smaller dogs. Dogs must be leashed elsewhere and are not permitted on the swim beach, in the swimming area, at events, or in gated sections. Registered service animals are exempt.
Is there a hiking trail around Lake Gregory?
Yes. The Lake Gregory Nature Trail Loop is a 2.3-mile trail circling the lake, with lake views, pine and cedar forest, and fitness stations. It’s open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
How long is the Lake Gregory trail?
The Nature Trail Loop is 2.3 miles. It’s relatively flat and most people complete it in 45 minutes to an hour at a relaxed pace.
How much does it cost to visit Lake Gregory?
It depends on the activity. The beach day pass is $17 per person; the All-Access pass covering the beach, waterslides, and inflatable waterpark is $32; fishing is $15 a day. The nature trail, dog parks, and skate park don’t require a pass. Boat rentals start at $15 an hour. Parking is charged separately from all passes.
Is Lake Gregory good for kids?
Yes. The park suits families with children of all ages, from the toddler splash pad to waterslides for older kids. Lifeguards are on duty at the swim beach during the summer season.
How far is Lake Gregory from Running Springs?
Around 25 to 30 minutes by car via State Route 18, under normal driving conditions.
What should you bring to Lake Gregory?
For a beach day: swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, water, snacks, and beach chairs. For fishing: passes, licence, rod, bait, and layers. For hiking: comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and snacks. For dogs: leash, water, and waste bags.
What is the best time to visit Lake Gregory?
Summer offers the full range of activities including swimming and the waterpark, but draws the largest crowds. Spring and autumn are quieter and cooler, and suit fishing and hiking. Winter is limited mainly to fishing and the trail, with mountain weather a factor.
Where can I stay near Lake Gregory?
Running Springs is around 25 to 30 minutes from Lake Gregory and offers cabin rental options like Wild Olive Cabins, a private mountain base for exploring the wider San Bernardino Mountains.
Your Mountain Base for Lake Gregory and Beyond
A day at Lake Gregory works in any direction — a full family summer outing with waterslides and beach passes, a quiet morning of fishing before the crowds arrive, or a walk around the lake with your dog followed by coffee in Crestline. There’s enough variety that different people in the same group can each find something that fits.
For cabin rentals in Running Springs with easy access to Lake Gregory and the wider San Bernardino Mountains, Wild Olive Cabins offers comfortable mountain accommodation that lets you make the most of the area — and gives you somewhere quiet to come back to at the end of the day.
