Frequently Asked Questions

Book directly through our website to save 10-15% compared to third-party sites like Airbnb or VRBO. Simply browse our properties, select your dates, and complete your reservation through our secure booking platform. Direct booking also gives you access to our best cancellation policies and direct communication with our team for any special requests.

We accept all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. All payments are processed securely through our booking platform with industry-standard encryption. A deposit is typically required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due prior to check-in.

Peak seasons like winter holidays (Thanksgiving through New Year's), Presidents' Day weekend, and summer weekends tend to book 2-3 months in advance. For the best selection, we recommend booking as early as possible for these periods. Midweek stays and shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are generally easier to book with shorter notice, sometimes just a few weeks ahead.

Cancellation policies vary by property, but generally we offer free cancellation up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund. Cancellations made within 14 days may be subject to a partial charge. Modifications to dates or guest count can usually be accommodated based on availability — just contact us as soon as possible and we'll do our best to help.

Most of our properties have a 2-night minimum stay. During major holidays and peak weekends (such as Christmas, New Year's, Fourth of July, and Presidents' Day), a 3-4 night minimum may apply. Some properties may have different minimums, which will be clearly noted on the listing page during the booking process.

Standard check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM. Early check-in or late check-out may be available depending on the booking schedule — just ask us and we'll do our best to accommodate your request. We'll send you all the details, including access instructions, the day before your arrival.

All of our properties use smart locks with unique access codes, so there's no need for a key pickup or to meet anyone in person. Your unique code will be sent to you the day before check-in via email and text message. The code is activated at check-in time and deactivated after check-out for your security.

We provide all linens, towels, pillows, and basic kitchen essentials (cooking utensils, pots, pans, dishes, coffee maker, etc.). You'll want to bring your own groceries, personal toiletries, and any special items you need. During winter months (November through March), we strongly recommend bringing tire chains or having a 4WD/AWD vehicle, as chain controls are common on mountain roads.

Yes, all of our properties have free parking. Most can accommodate 2-3 vehicles, and some properties have covered garages or carports. During winter months (November through March), please bring tire chains as they may be required on mountain roads. We recommend checking Caltrans road conditions before heading up the mountain.

Some of our properties are pet-friendly and are clearly marked on their listing pages. A pet fee applies (typically $50-$75 per stay) and we allow a maximum of 2 dogs per property. Pets must be kept off furniture and beds, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Please let us know about your furry friends when booking so we can confirm the property allows pets.

All of our properties are strictly non-smoking indoors. This includes cigarettes, cigars, vaping, and marijuana. Some properties have designated outdoor smoking areas — please check your property's specific guidelines. A cleaning fee of $500 or more will be charged if evidence of indoor smoking is found.

No parties or events are permitted at any of our properties. Big Bear has a noise ordinance that goes into effect at 10:00 PM, and we ask all guests to be respectful of neighbors at all times. Maximum occupancy limits are strictly enforced for safety and insurance purposes. Violations may result in immediate eviction without refund.

Please contact us immediately — we're available 24/7 and want to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. Normal wear and tear is completely covered, and we won't charge you for things like a light bulb burning out or a minor appliance issue. Accidental damages will be assessed on a case-by-case basis per our damage policy. Our goal is always to be fair and reasonable.

Big Bear is about 100 miles from downtown Los Angeles, typically a 2 to 2.5 hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions. The most common routes are via CA-330 through Running Springs or CA-18 through Lucerne Valley. During winter, the CA-330 route may have chain controls, so check Caltrans road conditions before you head up. We recommend leaving early to avoid weekend traffic, especially on Friday afternoons.

Yes, tire chains or snow tires are often required between November and March, even if there isn't snow on the ground at the time. Caltrans can implement chain controls at any time during winter weather. You can purchase chains at auto parts stores in the valley before heading up, or at shops near the base of the mountain. If you have a 4WD or AWD vehicle with snow-rated tires, you may be exempt from chain requirements under R1 conditions, but must carry chains for R2/R3 conditions.

Big Bear offers year-round activities for every interest! In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, plus snow tubing, sledding, and snowshoeing. During summer, the lake comes alive with boating, fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and swimming. Year-round you can explore hiking trails, visit the Alpine Zoo, ride the Alpine Slide, go bowling, and browse the shops and restaurants in The Village. Check out our Activities page for detailed information on all the things to do!

Vons and Stater Bros are both located in Big Bear City, about 5-10 minutes from most of our properties. There's also a CVS and Dollar Tree for basic supplies. We recommend stocking up on groceries before heading up the mountain if possible, as prices can be slightly higher in Big Bear. The Vons at 42171 Big Bear Blvd is the largest and most well-stocked option.