Timberline Lodge

I loved my first trip to Big Bear. Micheal and Teri were so welcoming and kind to me and my family, and the room was beautiful. I really liked the blankets and lamps. It’s right by the lake, with a lovely view at sunrise and sunset. 10/10 experience.

The cabin felt safe and comfortable, even though it’s an older building, and it had the amenities I’d expect at a newer resort. We evacuated from Running Springs in September, 2024 because of the Line Fire, and chose Timberline thinking we’d only be away from home a few days. Pam was wonderful when we checked in. Once we explained we were evacuating and had a pet, she gave us exceptional rates and helped us, along with other evacuees, whenever we needed something extra. She also shared fire updates several times and gave us tips for shopping for necessities in Big Bear. We would have stayed longer, but the Big Bear area eventually had to evacuate too. Thanks to Pam and her associate Shannon? for their compassion, care, and good citizenship.

The room was filthy, the heaters didn’t work in the bedrooms, and one in the living room made a crazy noise. We arrived around 08:30Pm in freezing, windy weather, after a frustrating booking experience. I had reserved on Hotels.com for October 18th under “reserve now pay on property,” but they charged the full amount on the 14th. I tried to cancel, but the hotel said no, so I kept the reservation. At the desk they took my card and driver license and gave me a key. I asked to see the room before settling in. The floor looked like it had never been washed, the sofa was full of hair, maybe dog or cat, and there were food prints on the walls, like someone had walked on them. The front desk woman tried to help. My 86 year old mom was with me, and we had to wait outside while they looked for another room. The second room they showed us was even worse. I asked for a refund, and she first refused, then called management. They said they’d charge $35.00 for cleaning. We didn’t stay there, so what cleaning fee? I agreed because I had to find another hotel, and my mom was freezing. Stay away from this place. Bad management, hungry for your money.

We’ve made Big Bear a family trip every Presidents Day weekend, and have tried several lodges, cabins, and home rentals. Timberline wasn’t one of the best, but it wasn’t the worst by a long shot. The price felt fair for what we got, and I’d recommend it. Thanks for helping make another year a success. We had unit 4, a studio with two queen beds and a pullout queen sofa. There was a TV, dining table, microwave, small fridge, and a bathroom with a tub and shower combo. The room was comfortable and the heater worked nicely. Some things are dated: the new TV had a VCR, and the carpet looked a bit dirty. Parking was ample. It’s near Big Bear Village, but not close enough to walk, about a 5-10 minute drive. The staff were friendly and pleasant from booking by phone through check-in.