Things To Do
in Crestline
Crestline, California is a small mountain community on the north shore of Lake Gregory in the San Bernardino Mountains, known for its pine forests, lakefront recreation, and relaxed small-town vibe. It is a popular weekend and vacation destination for Southern Californians seeking hiking, boating, fishing and seasonal snow play. The town has a mix of year-round residents, vacation rentals and locally owned shops, cafes and casual restaurants clustered along Highway 189.
Crestline’s altitude gives it cooler summers and snowy winters, making it an accessible mountain escape about 1–1.5 hours from much of the Inland Empire and Greater Los Angeles on light traffic days.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk around Lake Gregory, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. As the sun rises, the shimmering water provides a perfect backdrop for photography or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. You might even spot some local wildlife as you stroll along the shore.
After your morning walk, indulge in a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic spots by the lake. Spend the afternoon renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the water or try your hand at fishing. The vibrant waters and lush landscape make for an exciting adventure amidst nature.
As the sun sets over Lake Gregory, find a cozy spot to watch the evening sky transform into a tapestry of colors. Consider dining at a local eatery that offers outdoor seating, allowing you to take in the stunning views while enjoying the local cuisine. Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the lake as the stars begin to twinkle overhead.
Start the day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hiking adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest. Choose a picturesque trail, like the popular Heart Rock Trail, where stunning views and the sound of rushing water accompany you. The fresh mountain air invigorates your spirit and sets the tone for an adventurous day.
Take a break for lunch amidst the woods, enjoying nature's calm with a packed meal while listening to the gentle rustle of leaves above. Continue your hike, exploring the beauty of wildflowers and towering trees that lead to breathtaking vistas. Don’t forget to capture moments on your camera as you traverse through the magnificent landscapes.
As the day winds down, find a suitable spot to sit and appreciate the beautiful sunset over the forest. After a day of adventure, head back to Crestline and treat yourself to a warm meal at one of the town's charming restaurants. Spend your evening reflecting on the day’s adventures while sipping on a comforting drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $5-8 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel or cabin rental (per night) | $120-220 |
| 🛶Boat or paddleboard rental (hourly) | $15-35 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful mountain scenery and a peaceful lake ideal for outdoor recreation.
- Close enough to Southern California population centers for easy weekend getaways.
- Lower summer temperatures than the valleys, with winter snow for seasonal activities.
- Small-town character with local shops, cafes and community events.
- Limited dining and entertainment options compared with larger resort towns.
- Crowded on holiday weekends and during peak seasons; parking and reservations can be scarce.
- Winter weather can make roads hazardous and occasionally restrict access.
- Limited public transportation—a car is strongly recommended.
Places to Visit in Crestline
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic lake reflections, sunrise and sunset shots, fishing piers and family recreation scenes; good for wide-angle compositions and golden-hour light.
Native plant collections and forest trails with spring wildflowers and close-up nature photography opportunities; elevated viewpoints provide mountain vistas.
Scenic viewpoints along the nearby ridgeline provide sweeping valley views, especially dramatic at sunrise or when storms move through.
After storms, accessible snowfields and pine-lined roads create high-contrast winter scenes—great for action shots of sledders and textured landscape photos.
Quaint mountain architecture, decorated cabins and seasonal lights (holidays) add charm for street and detail photography.
Food in Crestline
Crestline Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Popular at lakeside eateries — fresh-fried fish or locally sourced whitefish when available; great after a morning on the water.
Must-Try!
Comforting, slow-simmered stews or chili offered at diners and pubs—perfect after a cool hike or snowy day.
Local cafes often feature house-roasted or locally-sourced coffee and fresh pastries, ideal for breakfast before outdoor activities.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets or community pop-ups near the lake in summer can offer local baked goods, sandwiches and ready-to-eat snacks—check community boards for dates.
Small stands or food trucks occasionally appear near parking areas and trailheads offering quick bites like tacos, hot dogs or ice cream during peak weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Many residents appreciate quiet evenings—minimize loud music and late-night disturbances, especially in residential and holiday-vacation areas.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife and habitat in the national forest and arboretum.
Wildfire risk is real—do not discard cigarettes, follow local burn restrictions, and never leave campfires unattended; obey posted fire-safety rules.
Locals are usually friendly and used to weekend visitors; greet people, be patient with seasonal business hours, and plan ahead on busy holiday weekends.
Safety
Tipping in Crestline
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping applies: ~15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, $1–2 per bag for bellhop/porter, and rounding up for casual services. Many small eateries expect tips for counter service via displayed tipping prompts.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants and shops; some small vendors or seasonal stands may prefer cash. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are common; ATMs are available but can be limited, so carry some cash for weekends or remote trailhead purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings warming into pleasant afternoons; wildflowers emerge and trails can be muddy in low-lying areas—bring layers and waterproof footwear for hikes.
Milder temperatures than the valley (comfortable daytime highs), peak lake and outdoor activity season with crowded weekends—book lodging and rentals in advance and use sun protection.
Crisp air and fall color in some areas, quieter crowds after Labor Day, ideal hiking conditions; nights get cold so pack warm layers.
Regular snowfall at higher elevations brings snow play, sledding and occasional chain requirements on mountain roads—check conditions and carry chains if driving after storms.
Crestline at Night
Hiking in Crestline
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, well-maintained trails near Crestline focused on native plants and local ecology—family-friendly and great for birding and easy hikes.
A loop or shoreline walks offering easy-to-moderate hiking with lake views and picnic opportunities; good for all skill levels.
Access numerous longer and more challenging routes in the surrounding national forest for ridge-top views, forested canyons and higher-elevation hikes—check trailhead maps and conditions.
A short drive away, Jenks Lake has quieter trails and fishing spots with shaded sections and moderate routes popular with families.
Sections of the PCT and connecting trails are accessible within a drive; rewarding for backpackers and long-distance hikers seeking alpine terrain and extended routes.
Airports
How to reach Crestline by plane.
About 35–50 miles west of Crestline (roughly 45–75 minutes by car depending on traffic); the most convenient major airport for the Inland Empire with national and some international flights.
Approximately 75–90 miles west (1.5–2+ hours by car depending on traffic); offers many international and domestic connections but can be longer to reach in peak traffic.
Smaller regional airport about 30–45 miles away; options can be limited but it's closer for some domestic flights and general aviation.
Located in Orange County about 70–90 miles southwest; an alternative for some domestic routes and often less congested than LAX.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, retirees and service workers who support the local economy—many have deep roots in the mountain community.
Seasonal residents and weekend visitors from the Inland Empire and Los Angeles seeking recreation and respite; this group drives much of the peak-season economy.
Hikers, anglers, bikers and snow-play visitors who come for the natural amenities and trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular due to abundant trails and access to San Bernardino National Forest; community events and group hikes are common.
Seasonal favorite in winter for families and casual snow activities; nearby resorts offer skiing and snowboarding for more advanced winter sports.
Local singletrack and forest service roads attract mountain bikers of varying skill levels.
Recreational fishing and non-motorized boating on Lake Gregory and nearby lakes are beloved pastimes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Crestline.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited—look for salads, veggie burgers, grilled vegetable plates and morning egg/cheese dishes at cafes; calling ahead helps during busy weekends.
Vegan choices are more limited than in urban centers; bring staples or visit Lake Arrowhead for a few healthier-casual cafes with vegan offerings. Many restaurants will adapt sides like steamed vegetables, salads or fries.
Some restaurants can provide gluten-free options (salads, grilled proteins, many sides); confirm cross-contamination risks with staff if you have celiac disease.