If you are looking for a place to explore this summer try Green Valley Lake. During the 1880’s timber claims were made on Green Valley area by the Highland Lumber Co. During 1892-4 a horse trail from Fredalba lumber camp to Big Bear widened into toll wagon road by Bear Valley Wagon Rd. Co. travelled through Green Valley and an eleven-room Toll House was built near entrance to campground. They gave the name of Green Valley to the area.
In 1911 San Bernardino County purchased toll road and it was the primary road to Big Bear. In 1923 Hwy. 18 was completed (Arctic Circle). In 1924 Harry McMullen (Green Valley Mac) buys up property with an idea of the dam; he sold the idea and the land to DeWitt-Blair Co. who are financed by Union Bank. Contractors Clinton, Code, & Hill design the dam, the subdivision, and a water system. Mac was a fishing guide that led parties on horseback to the Deep Creek area.

In May of 1925 it was announced that 60 workmen are rushing to complete the big dam that will store water for the new Green Valley Lake. C. F. DeWitt, one of the developers, also announced the hauling-in of material for the construction of an artistic three-room stucco boulder lodge on the shore. The dam at Green Valley Lake was completed in August of 1926.

This view shows a myriad of cars parked at Green Valley Lake in the summer during the 1950’s. No power boats were allowed but the public could swim and rent paddle boards. The lake remains a popular destination.

Thank you: http://www.rimoftheworldhistory.com/rs.html

Green Valley Lake continues to be a year-around vacation destination with great fishing , a swim beach, bicycle and hiking trails, camping and a fun place to visit. GVL is approx. 30 min. from Lake Arrowhead.