Cedar Lake, artificial lake in the San Bernadino Mountains, San Bernadino County, California
Cedar Lake is an artificial lake in the San Bernardino Mountains at about 7,200 feet (2,200 meters) elevation, surrounded by thick conifer forests. This small three-acre (1.2-hectare) body of water was created by a dam across a stream and is now operated as a retreat center.
The lake was created in 1928 when a dam was built across a small stream to provide water for the area and recreation. From the 1940s onward, it became a popular filming location for Western movies due to its natural scenery.
The lake serves as a gathering place for organized groups and educational programs focused on outdoor learning and teamwork. Visitors experience how the mountain setting fosters connection with nature and collaborative problem-solving among participants.
The lake is accessible by winding mountain roads about two hours from Los Angeles or San Diego. Bring warm clothing as nights get cold, with temperatures dropping into the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit (0-10 Celsius), especially in fall and spring.
The lake served as a filming location for numerous Western movies from the 1940s through 1960s, offering film fans a chance to see the actual locations where classic scenes were shot. An old grain mill still stands near the dam, a remnant of the area's earlier use.
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