Big Bear Lake is about 72 feet (22 meters) at its deepest point, with an average depth of roughly 35 feet.

Quick Scoop

  • Maximum depth: Around 72 feet, measured near the dam at the west end of the lake.
  • Average depth: About 35 feet across most of the lake basin.
  • Lake size: Roughly 7 miles long with about 22 miles of shoreline, so the depth drops off more near the dam than along many shallow coves.

Why the Depth Varies

  • Water levels change year to year with snowpack and local drought, so actual depth at a given spot can be a bit lower during dry periods.
  • Nautical and fishing charts sometimes list a slightly different “max depth” (for example, around 67 feet) because they reflect specific water levels at the time of mapping.

Handy Facts If You’re Visiting

  • The deepest water is close to the dam; many near‑shore areas and bays are much shallower and better suited for casual paddling or beginner anglers.
  • The relatively modest depth, combined with the high elevation around 6,750 feet, helps keep the lake cool and supports popular trout and bass fisheries in spring through fall.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.