Zoo and wildlife rehabilitation · Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Alpine Zoo review
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a small mountain zoo and wildlife rehabilitation center in the Moonridge area of Big Bear Lake. It houses native and alpine animals that cannot return to the wild, is open all year and sits about 1.2 miles from Snow Summit's main address.
- Best for: Families with young kids
- 1.2 mi from Snow Summit
- Season: Year-round
- Our score 8/10
At a glance
- Zoo and wildlife rehabilitation center
- 42801 Moonridge Road, Big Bear Lake
- Open year-round; may open late or close on snowy days
- No age or height rules
- Best for: families with young kids
- Official website: bigbearzoo.org
Our score
8 /10
Small but well run: the animals, the talks and the staff earn steady praise.
- The experience itself 9
- Value 7
- Crowds and wait 7
- Setting and access 8
What it is known for
Visitors praise the animal presentations, the well-kept grounds and the knowledgeable staff and volunteers.
The zoo is small, which suits young kids, and its mountain setting is part of the appeal.
Strengths and limits
Pros
- Well-cared-for animals
- Engaging talks
- Easy with young kids
Cons
- Small — a short visit
- Snow can delay opening in winter
Before you go
Is it open in winter?
Yes, all year. The zoo says it may open late or stay closed on snowy days, so check its website that morning.
Do I need to book?
Not as an individual visitor. Groups must apply in advance, per the zoo's own page.
Where do I buy tickets?
On the zoo's own website.
Where it is
Nearby alternatives
Who reviewed this
Jenna Whitcomb
Local guide editor
Jenna Whitcomb edits Near Big Bear. Every place on this page was checked against the business's own website and OpenStreetMap on the date below.
- Updated
- September 22, 2026