Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead. It is a large reservoir and unincorporated community located in the San Bernardino Mountains of San Bernardino County, California. The lake and its surrounding area are a prominent mountain resort region within the Inland Empire, known for its alpine scenery and recreational opportunities. The reservoir is privately owned by the Arrowhead Lake Association and is central to the community of the same name.

Geography and climate

Situated in the San Bernardino National Forest, the lake lies at an elevation of approximately 5,128 feet within the Transverse Ranges of Southern California. The primary inflow and outflow is Little Bear Creek, a tributary of the Santa Ana River. The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with continental influences, featuring warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters, typical of the California montane chaparral and woodlands ecoregion. Nearby peaks include Sugarloaf Mountain and the area is part of the larger San Bernardino Mountains watershed that feeds major systems like the Colorado River Aqueduct.

History

The site was originally known as Little Bear Lake, a natural glacial body used by the indigenous Serrano for seasonal gathering. In the late 19th century, the area attracted interest from Los Angeles entrepreneurs and the Arrowhead Reservoir Company was formed. Major development began in 1893 when a dam was constructed by the Arrowhead Reservoir Company, significantly enlarging the lake for water storage to supply the Citrus Belt regions like Redlands. In the 1920s, the property was acquired by a syndicate including J. B. Van Nuys and developed into a planned resort community by the Arrowhead Lake Company, mirroring projects like Lake Tahoe. The Great Depression slowed growth, but post-World War II expansion, facilitated by improved highways, solidified its status as a year-round destination.

Demographics

The census-designated place of Lake Arrowhead, California encompasses the primary residential community. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population is predominantly non-Hispanic white, with smaller percentages of Hispanic, African American, and Asian residents. The area is part of California's 31st congressional district and falls under the jurisdiction of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. Educational needs are served by the Rim of the World Unified School District, with the local high school being Rim of the World High School.

Economy and tourism

The economy is almost entirely driven by tourism and real estate, centered on the private lake and its amenities managed by the Arrowhead Lake Association. Key attractions include the Lake Arrowhead Village shopping center, seasonal events like the Lake Arrowhead Film Festival, and extensive recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. Winter sports are available at nearby Snow Valley and Snow Summit ski areas. The region is also known for its bed and breakfast inns and historic lodges, contributing to the San Bernardino County tourism sector. Major annual events draw visitors from across the Greater Los Angeles and Inland Empire regions.

Infrastructure and transportation

Primary road access is via State Route 173 and State Route 18, known as the Rim of the World Highway, which connects to Interstate 15 and Interstate 215 in the San Bernardino Valley. The California Department of Transportation maintains these routes, which are critical for tourism and residents. The nearest major commercial airport is Ontario International Airport. Utility services are provided by Southern California Edison for electricity and various local companies for water and sewer, with the lake itself serving as a key private water source. The community is protected by the San Bernardino County Fire Department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.

Category:Reservoirs in San Bernardino County, California Category:Unincorporated communities in San Bernardino County, California Category:San Bernardino Mountains