ITH Big Bear Lake Hostel and Retreat Center

This spot is really lovely- wonderful staff, great atmosphere, and really beautiful, clean amenities. Plus, the location is fantastic. If you're looking for a mixture of hostel community and privacy (the rooms all have their own locks, so you aren't sharing), then this is the spot for you! It's perfect for ski/snowboard season, or lake season!

Stayed there just recently. Booked for 2 nights when arrived host charged me twice! When I wanted to stay near by fireplace he was bothered by it because he didn't want to sit on reception and wanted to sit near by fireplace but I guess ALONE. So I went to my room which is not fresh at all and bathroomd not clean compare to Big Bear hostel which is much cheaper 100% cleaner and just clean in general with parking and etc. in ITH hostel only dog Yogy is worth of visiting. Nothing else. Better to book big Bear hostel trust me.

This place is absolutely fantastic. Perfect to enjoy the mountain vibes in the rustic rooms, bask in the spa under the stars and hang out playing some pool. Also has really great information about all the local hikes nearby. The friendly greetings each day from the local “guard” dog were always warm. Would recommend this to anyone.

Our fraternity recently rented out the ITH Hostel & Retreat Center for our annual summer retreat, and we couldn’t have asked for a better place. Despite usually being a hostel, they allowed us to book the entire property, making it perfect for our group of 25 guys in our 20s. This lodge was absolutely perfect for our needs. It comfortably accommodated our entire group, ensuring everyone had a bed. The place is incredibly sturdy, which is essential for a group of young guys. Plus, it fit perfectly within our budget. The location is unbeatable—just an 8-minute walk to Big Bear Village, a 7-minute walk to Big Bear Marina for pontoon rentals and more, and a 3-minute walk to a market/liquor store. We loved the huge communal spaces, including the great room, game room, kitchen, amphitheater, front porch, and back patio. These areas were ideal for our group activities and gatherings. The service provided by ITH was exceptional. Steve was great to communicate with via email during the booking process. A couple of days before our arrival, manager Jackie introduced herself via text and assured us she would be available for any questions or needs during our stay. Jimmy was also just a text away for any maintenance issues or questions we had, although there were very few. We even got to meet and hang out with some travelers staying at the chalet next door, also owned by ITH, and we met Yogi, the friendly dog who lives around the property. This was hands down the best retreat we’ve ever had, thanks to the ITH Hostel & Retreat Center and their amazing staff. I can’t recommend this place enough for group retreats, and we can’t wait to be back again next year!

It's a wooden building in a state of decline. Dorm bed was clean with very soft saggy mattress. Good breakfast and a bonus barbecue on a saturday night. Just bring beer. Free tea and coffee all day. Hot showers. I tort it had a bit of a cleanliness issue with the floors outside of bins spiders webs etc but it is cheap. The staff are super friendly and make your stay enjoyable. There is a new building next door with better cleaner rooms but it is what it is. Location is good for walking into town for bars stores and restaurants. You can rent kayaks at the hostel and its near the lake with nice view from the front porch. Relax and enjoy