Fawnskin West
“West Fawnskin” encompasses the area from the Big Bear dam, into the small town of Fawnskin proper, and an area west of that – on both sides of North Shore Drive/Hwy 38. The lake serves as the southern boundary, and the lush National Forest as the boundary to the north.
From the dam to the inlet known as Grout Bay, government lease cabins dot both sides of the highway. Many of these cabins were built in the early 1920’s on land leased from the U.S. Forest Service, and the land leases continue on a year-to-year basis today. Situated on the lake, across-the-street from the lake, or nestled high above the highway on the densely treed hillside, most of these cabins are small, vintage, and with an abundance of native stone work. Some have been in the same family for years, but occasionally one of these jewels is offered for sale.
On North Shore Drive in the area of the site of “Grey’s Landing,” there is a strip of modest privately-owned homes, across-the-street from the lake, with parcels backing to the National Forest. These high-demand homes have stunning lake and mountain views, as well as something most non-lakefront homes do not – deeded dock rights, and the privilege of having a private dock anchored to the shoreline across from the house.
The majority of Fawnskin’s residential area is located in the hillsides above the little town of Fawnskin. Winding streets lined with oaks and pines play host to just about every size and style residence imaginable, from truly vintage cabins, to newly-constructed expansive residences. Meeting the challenge of hillside building has inspired a multitude of styles from A-frames, Chalets and Gambrels, to stylish architectural wonders. Home sizes range from tiny cabins to several thousand square foot private retreats, and the price range varies accordingly. The one thing most Fawnskin hillside homes have in common is being designed to take full advantage of “the views only Fawnskin can offer!”
Slightly west of “downtown” Fawnskin, a development of five exclusive lakefront homes is known as “Shelter Cove.” Heading east out of downtown, a variety of size and type homes occupy both sides of North Shore Drive, including fabulous lakefront residences on large parcels.
The two-block long business district of Fawnskin includes the local post office, and San Bernardino County Fire Station staffed with full-time fire and EMT personnel. There is a charming “general store” for necessities, and several restaurants including the highly-reviewed and chef-owned North Shore Cafe. Just past “downtown” is Captain John’s Fawn Harbor marina, offering boat mooring, launching and rentals, fishing supplies, and a picnic area.
If you are looking for lakefront living on the “quieter” side of the lake, consider Fawnskin. Lakefront offerings in Fawnskin are rare, but not unheard of! If you are looking for the ideal vacation retreat, with a feeling of seclusion and great views, there’s sure to be something in Fawnskin that fits the bill!
