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:
- June 20 – August 30, 2026 · Friday–Sunday only, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- 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 only beach with lifeguards on duty. 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 2026 season runs June 20 through August 30, and the beach is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM — a midweek trip will find the gate closed. 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 safest, most supervised place to swim in Big Bear Lake.
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?
Swim Beach is open 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Friday through Sunday only, during its summer season.
Is Swim Beach open right now?
The 2026 season runs June 20 through August 30, Friday–Sunday. Outside those dates and days the beach is closed, and lifeguards are only on duty during posted open hours.
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.