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Sightseeing

Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge

📍 Big Bear Lake · USA
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4.2/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Introduction

Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge is a unique wildlife rescue and education center located in the Moonridge community of Big Bear Lake, California. Founded in 1959, the campus originally served as a refuge for injured and orphaned wildlife and still places animal rescue and rehabilitation at the core of its mission. The zoo is home to roughly 85 animals, most of them native species that cannot be returned to the wild, including black bears, mountain lions, gray wolves, vultures, and bobcats. Visitors can observe these once-injured or orphaned animals up close and learn about the local ecosystem through keeper talks. Although modest in size, the zoo is deeply educational and a must-visit for families and nature lovers in the Big Bear Lake area.

Highlights

1
Wildlife Rescue Mission
Focused on rescuing injured and orphaned native animals, most of which cannot be returned to the wild
2
Black Bear and Mountain Lion Habitats
Observe California's top predators up close in their daily lives
3
Gray Wolf Pack
Learn about wolf pack social structure and local ecological balance
4
Raptor Rehabilitation
View vultures and hawks and learn about raptor rescue and release efforts
5
Daily Keeper Talks
Staff share the rescue story of each animal at scheduled times

🛈 Practical Info

HoursSummer daily 9:00-17:00, winter 10:00-16:00, closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas
AdmissionAdults about $12, ages 3-12 about $9, under 3 free
Recommended Duration1-2 hours
Address43285 Goldmine Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
TransportDrive from Big Bear Lake village center, about 10 minutes by car

💡 Tips

The zoo is small, so combine it with other Big Bear Lake attractions for a day trip
Check road conditions before visiting in winter when snow can close roads
Donations and gift shop purchases support the rescue mission
Pick up the talk schedule at entry to plan your visit pace
Do not feed the animals and follow all safety guidelines

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge?

The zoo is small, so combine it with other Big Bear Lake attractions for a day trip Check road conditions before visiting in winter when snow can close roads