Looking for one last family trip before summer ends? We’ve got 7 awesome vacation suggestions for your family covering the unique mountains and deserts of San Bernardino County.

Mountains in San Bernardino County

Just a short drive away, the mountain communities in Southern California come alive in the summer, with sunny skies, high temps, cute cabins and cool lakes. Picture charming main streets, winding roads, boutique shopping and plenty of pine trees.

Wrightwood

Located “just up the hill” north of Ontario and slightly southwest of Victorville along the Angeles Crest Trail, Wrightwood sits at almost 6000 feet and is an under-the-radar mountain town worthy of a visit.

Where to Stay: One of the wellness-focused Wrightwood Resort properties, like Rhinestone Rose Inn. There are also cabins, inns, B&Bs and camping options.

Where to Eat: You’ll want to pop in to the Grizzly Cafe for breakfast and boutique browsing and The Village Grind for coffee or an al fresco lunch. Dine at Mexico Lindo Seafood Restaurant for their famous margaritas and Wrightwood Brewing Company for great beer and killer sandwiches.

What to Do: Ziplines At Pacific Crest is a highlight in the area. Families can let their 10+ kids swing from the trees without fear. Headquarters are easy to find, right downtown and the zipline course is just minutes away with incredible mountain views. Easy, moderate and advanced hiking trails are abundant. Come back in the winter for a trip to Mountain High Ski Resort and Tubing Park, the largest tubing park in Southern California. Ski season begins around Thanksgiving and goes through March/April.

Crestline and Lake Gregory

About 10 minutes south of Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino Mountains, Crestline and Lake Gregory are often skipped over for the more famous mountain monikers, but shouldn’t be. Better hurry, Lake Gregory Recreational Park is open through Labor Day Weekend.

Where to Stay: Cabin rental options are great, but check out the North Shore Inn situated directly across the street from Lake Gregory.

Where to Eat: An authentic Mexican meal at Hortencia’s at Cliffhanger on the “Rim of the World” is a must. Bring your camera and go at sunset.

What to Do: Take your trip now to family-friendly Lake Gregory before the summer is over to soak up the sun, play in the sand and splash around the inflatable water park, complete with enormous slides, aqua bikes and pedal boats. There are plenty of hiking trails in the Crestline/Lake Gregory areas, including the National Children’s Forest Interpretive Trail designed by kids.

This is Part One of a three part series on last-minute summer family vacations in San Bernardino County. Stay tuned tomorrow for Part Two.