Grout Bay Picnic Area
Beach Details
- Swimming:
- Yes
- Lifeguard:
- No
- Fee:
- Adventure Pass required for parking
- Parking:
- Adventure Pass required ($5 daily or $30 annual)
- Season/Hours:
- Seasonal - closed during eagle nesting (winter-spring, sometimes into summer)
Location
Highway 38 at Grout Bay, Big Bear Lake, CA (North Shore Drive)
Phone: (909) 382-2600
Get Directions →About This Beach
Grout Bay Picnic Area is a scenic day-use facility on the north shore at approximately 6,811 feet elevation, offering stunning panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and the San Bernardino Mountains. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Grout Bay provides a more natural, less developed beach and swimming experience compared to south shore parks. The shaded picnic tables make it ideal for a relaxing lakeside lunch with fantastic lake vistas. Lake access is available for swimming and wading, though there are no lifeguards or designated swimming areas. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Across the highway, the Grays Peak Trail trailhead makes this perfect for combining a hike with a swim and picnic. Important: Closed during eagle nesting season (typically winter through spring, sometimes into summer). Check with San Bernardino National Forest before visiting. Offers a quieter, more secluded alternative to busier south shore beaches.
Amenities
Shaded picnic tables, wheelchair accessible, scenic lake views, nearby Grays Peak Trailhead
Grout Bay Picnic Area FAQ
Do you need a pass for Grout Bay Picnic Area?
Yes, to park. Grout Bay is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the lot requires an Adventure Pass, $5 daily or $30 annual.
Is Grout Bay Picnic Area open year-round?
No. It closes during eagle nesting season, typically winter through spring and sometimes into summer. Confirm with San Bernardino National Forest at (909) 382-2600 before driving out.
Can you swim at Grout Bay?
There is lake access for swimming and wading, but no lifeguards and no designated swimming area — it is a more natural, less developed shoreline than the south shore parks. Big Bear Municipal Water District rules require swimmers to stay within 50 feet of shore or 20 feet of a private dock.
Are dogs allowed at Grout Bay Picnic Area?
We have not found a published Forest Service rule covering dogs at the Grout Bay shoreline, so we are not going to guess. Check the posted signage on site or call San Bernardino National Forest at (909) 382-2600. For confirmed dog-friendly shoreline, Boulder Bay Park and Ski Beach Park both allow dogs on-leash.