Things to do nearLake Gregory Regional Park

Lake Gregory was created in the 1930s when a dam was built on City Creek, forming the reservoir that now anchors the community of Crestline in the San Bernardino Mountains. San Bernardino County later developed the surrounding land into a regional park, and today it serves as one of the most accessible mountain recreation areas for residents of the Inland Empire and greater Los Angeles.

The park centers on a sandy swimming beach open during summer months, with a designated swim area, lifeguards on duty, and a water slide that delights younger visitors. Beyond the beach, you can rent pedal boats and explore the quiet coves along the shoreline. A paved and dirt path circles the entire lake, offering an easy two-mile loop through fragrant pines with views of the water at nearly every turn. Fishing is permitted year-round, and the lake is regularly stocked with trout, making it a reliable spot for anglers of all skill levels.

The surrounding forest sets a peaceful tone that feels genuinely removed from the flatlands below. A short drive up the mountain leads to the Heaps Peak Arboretum Day Use Area, where interpretive trails wind through old-growth conifers and native plantings. The town of Crestline itself has a small-town character, with local cafes and shops lining Lake Drive just steps from the park entrance.

Lake Gregory Regional Park earns its place as a mountain-day classic: accessible, scenic, and genuinely refreshing in every season.