Situated in an area that was developed after the California state highways were improved (and expanded) back in the 1920s, Running Springs is a mountain community located smack dab between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake at an elevation of 6,080 feet.
Wholly contained within the San Bernardino National Forest, Running Springs is a quiet and friendly destination ideal for well-deserved breaks from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Whether you're looking to some spend time on (and in) nearby mountain lakes during the summer months or racing down the slopes of some of the state's most popular ski areas, our vacation rentals in Running Springs are ready to be your home base for year-round adventures in the great outdoors.
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Yes, 83 of our Running Springs homes allow dogs—so feel free to bring Fido along. (Just make sure to check individual home listings for any limits on the number and size of dogs they allow).
Browse dog-friendly homes >Yes. 215 of our Running Springs vacation rentals have internet access, so you can stay connected throughout your trip.
Browse homes with internet access >Absolutely. Our local Running Springs team includes professional housekeepers who care for all our homes here. They’ll clean thoroughly and restock amenities, so everything is ready for your arrival—and all you have to do is settle in and relax.
Learn more about Vacasa Premium Clean >Originally known as Hunsaker Flats, the town of Running Springs is just 23 miles from the heart of San Bernardino, accessible via scenic Highway 330. Alternatively, Running Springs straddles Highway 18 (known by many as the Rim of the World Highway) connecting San Bernardino to Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear Lake, Lucerne Valley, and Victorville.
While many visitors of Running Springs stay here for convenient access to both Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake, others make the trip to simply enjoy a quaint mountain community that offers locally-owned coffee shops, restaurants, antique stores, and gift shops all in one inviting oasis among the evergreens only 80 miles from downtown Los Angeles.
For kids, the area is home to multiple summer camps such as Pali Adventures, which also houses an outdoor education program known as the Pali Institute. Send the kids to Pali Adventures for a premier camp experience with over 70 activities, overnight camping facilities, and award-winning menus.
Just seven miles north of Running Springs is Green Valley Lake, featuring a fully-stocked, man-made lake where you can try your hand at catching trout and bass. Bring your swimsuit to splash around in the water and have a picnic alongside the lakeshore.
During the winter months, Running Springs is great for skiers and snowboarders alike. Open from late fall through early spring, the Snow Valley Mountain Ski & Snowboard Resort just six miles away is a great place to learn and have fun on the mountain, while the Rim Nordic Ski Area is the only cross country ski area in Southern California with groomed trails.
You don't have to spend hours on the road to find incredible opportunities for exciting adventure close to Running Springs. Just a little over seven miles northwest is Lake Arrowhead with its Bavarian-themed village where you can shop at local boutiques and dine at several excellent restaurants.
Lake Arrowhead is also ideal for a variety of watersports ranging from water skiing to boogie boarding or you can take a relaxing tour of the lake aboard the Lake Arrowhead Queen and learn all about the history of the area. Similarly, Big Bear Lake 17 miles east offers a fun village brimming with shops, restaurants, and year-round activities as well as a sparkling mountain lake perfect for sailing, fishing, and swimming.
When the snow is falling, pack up your 4x4 and take an exciting trip over to either Snow Summit to take advantage of 31 runs just 19 miles east, or Bear Mountain 21 miles away, offering 24 superb runs on almost 750 acres.
With several other notable and easily accessible destinations nearby including the city of Palm Springs just 65 miles away, Running Springs is a centrally-located community for year-round fun. Stay at one of our vacation rentals and get ready to experience the natural beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest.
