Swim Beach (McDill Swim Beach) at Meadow Park
Beach Details
- Swimming:
- Yes
- Lifeguard:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
- Fee:
- Adults (13+) $10 · Youth (3–12) $5 · Seniors (60+) $5 · Military/Veterans $5 · Under 3 free
- Parking:
- Free on-site parking at Meadow Park
- Season/Hours:
- Previously published: June 20–August 30, 2026, Fri–Sun 11am–4pm. Confirm current opening and staffing with the county.
- Operated by:
- San Bernardino County (Special Districts / Public Works)
About This Beach
Swim Beach — officially McDill Swim Beach, inside Meadow Park, and usually searched simply as "Swim Beach" — is Big Bear Lake's only area specifically designed and staffed for swimming, and the lake's seasonal lifeguarded beach. It is run by San Bernardino County, and unlike every other beach on the lake it charges admission: $10 for adults 13 and over, and $5 for youth ages 3–12, seniors 60 and over, and military and veterans. Children under 3 are free. The previously published 2026 schedule was June 20 through August 30, Friday–Sunday, 11am–4pm. Current gate and lifeguard status have not been independently confirmed; contact the county before visiting. The sandy beach has shallow, clear water suited to young children and beginning swimmers, plus a floating dock, an inflatable slide, and a water trampoline (life jacket required). Swimmers going beyond 4.5 feet of depth must pass a short swim test. Parking is free on-site at Meadow Park, a 16.25-acre complex with sports courts, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas, and there is a snack bar and clean restrooms. After roughly a decade closed due to low lake levels, Swim Beach reopened in 2024 and remains the seasonal supervised swimming facility; current operation and water advisories must be checked.
Amenities
Lifeguard, floating dock, inflatable slide, water trampoline, snack bar, restrooms, picnic tables, playground, sports courts
Swim Beach FAQ
How much does Swim Beach in Big Bear cost?
Admission is $10 for adults 13 and over, $5 for youth ages 3–12, $5 for seniors 60 and over, and $5 for military and veterans. Children under 3 are free. Parking at Meadow Park is free.
What time does Swim Beach open?
The previously published 2026 schedule was June 20–August 30, Friday–Sunday, 11am–4pm. Current opening and lifeguard staffing have not been confirmed; contact the county. The state’s August 27, 2026 advisory advises against swimming and says to keep pets out of Big Bear Lake. Check the official advisory and posted signs before visiting; shoreline access does not mean water contact is recommended.
Is Swim Beach open right now?
The previously published 2026 schedule was June 20–August 30, Friday–Sunday, 11am–4pm. Current opening and lifeguard staffing have not been confirmed; contact the county. The state’s August 27, 2026 advisory advises against swimming and says to keep pets out of Big Bear Lake. Check the official advisory and posted signs before visiting; shoreline access does not mean water contact is recommended.
Where is Swim Beach in Big Bear Lake?
Swim Beach is at 41218 Park Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, inside Meadow Park on the south shore. Free on-site parking is available at the park.
Is McDill Swim Beach the same as Swim Beach?
Yes. The facility is officially McDill Swim Beach at Meadow Park and is commonly signed and searched as simply "Swim Beach." Both names refer to the same lifeguarded, county-run swim area.
Are dogs allowed at Swim Beach?
No. Dogs are not allowed at Swim Beach. For dog-friendly shoreline in Big Bear Lake, see our dog-friendly beaches guide.