Rare Old Map of Big Bear Lake, California by USGS, 1970: San Bernardino National Forest & Bear Mountain
Restored in our London workshop from the original 1984 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored in London • Printed and framed in the UK
Restored from the original 1984 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
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Gift message & custom finish
If you want to add a gift message, or a finish (jigsaw, aluminium board, etc.) that is not available here, please request it in the "order note" when you check out.
Every order is custom made, so if you need the size adjusted slightly, or printed on an unusual material, just let us know. We've done thousands of custom orders over the years, so there's (almost) nothing we can't manage.
You can also contact us before you order, if you prefer!
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Titled “Big Bear Lake,” this US Geological Survey map presents one of Southern California’s most beloved mountain landscapes with the precision and...
Continue readingTitled “Big Bear Lake,” this US Geological Survey map presents one of Southern California’s most beloved mountain landscapes with the precision and restraint that made USGS cartography indispensable. The survey dates to 1970, while the map carries a 1984 imprint, offering a view of the region at a fascinating moment between postwar recreational growth and the more intensive development that would follow. At 1:24,000 scale, the map captures Big Bear Lake and its surrounding communities—Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City, Fawnskin, Moonridge, Sugarloaf, and the North and South Shore areas—with remarkable clarity. Roads, trails, forest boundaries, shorelines, and settlement patterns are rendered in the clean visual language of late twentieth-century American topographic mapping.
The central feature is Big Bear Lake itself, a high-altitude reservoir set within the San Bernardino Mountains and long cherished as a retreat from the cities below. The map traces the lake’s sinuous shoreline, the developed corridors along its southern edge, and the quieter forested reaches near Fawnskin and the North Shore. Nearby Baldwin Lake, Hardy Lake, and Lake Williams broaden the hydrological portrait of the region, revealing a landscape shaped by mountain basins, seasonal drainage, and human engineering. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest frames the map with an unmistakable sense of elevation and wilderness, while local roads and paths suggest the area’s growing importance for skiing, hiking, boating, and mountain tourism.
The topographic character of the map is especially compelling. Dense contour lines describe the rugged relief of the San Bernardino Mountains, while hachured patterns and shaded land-cover indications add texture to steep slopes, ridges, and forested terrain. Bear Mountain, Gold Mountain, Holcomb Valley, and the high country toward the San Gorgonio Wilderness emerge not simply as names, but as sculptural forms translated into cartographic language. The USGS style is functional yet elegant: a disciplined composition of symbols, contours, grids, and labels designed to make the land intelligible. The well-executed legend in the lower corner anchors the viewer, explaining a sophisticated visual system built for both accuracy and field use.
Historically, this map records Big Bear at a pivotal stage in its evolution. By 1970, the lake and surrounding communities had already become major destinations for Southern California recreation, with skiing at Bear Mountain, hiking through national forest lands, and lakeside tourism shaping the local economy. Yet the map also preserves a landscape less saturated by later resort expansion, second-home development, and year-round accessibility. The presence of State Route 38 and networks of local roads and trails reveals the growing infrastructure of leisure, while the forested backcountry still dominates the composition. It is a document of balance: mountain settlement, public land, recreation, and wilderness held in careful cartographic tension.
The US Geological Survey brought to this landscape a tradition of mapping rooted in science, public service, and national ambition. Since the late nineteenth century, USGS topographic sheets have guided engineers, land managers, hikers, planners, geologists, and soldiers, creating a shared geographic vocabulary for the American landscape. In “Big Bear Lake,” that institutional authority is evident in every contour, symbol, and measured boundary. The map is more than a practical record of place; it is a portrait of how the federal government observed, organized, and understood the mountainous West. For collectors, it offers a richly detailed view of a cherished California destination, captured with the calm precision of classic USGS cartography.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Big Bear Lake
- Big Bear City
- Fawnskin
- Baldwin Lake
- San Bernardino National Forest
- Holcomb Valley
- Bear Mountain
- Sugarloaf
- Moonridge
- North Shore
- South Shore
- Lake Arrowhead
- Hardy Lake
- Gold Mountain
- San Gorgonio Wilderness
- Lake Williams
- Roads: State Route 38 and various local roads
- Trails: Multiple hiking trails and paths throughout the national forest
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the US Geological Survey as a historical 1:24,000 topographical map.
- Dated 1970, with a 1984 imprint.
- Created by the US Geological Survey, renowned for detailed and accurate topographical mapping used in outdoor recreation, planning, and environmental management.
- Features detailed contour lines to show elevation changes across mountainous terrain.
- Uses hachures for steeper slopes and shading to indicate variations in land cover.
- Follows a clear, functional layout typical of standard USGS mapping conventions.
- Highlights the rugged topography of the San Bernardino Mountains.
- Reflects an area that has changed significantly since 1970 through development, recreation, increased tourism, and shifting land use.
- Includes a well-executed legend and visual styling characteristic of USGS maps from the period.
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Titled “Big Bear Lake,” this US Geological Survey map presents one of Southern California’s most beloved mountain landscapes with the precision and restraint that made USGS cartography indispensable. The survey dates to 1970, while the map carries a 1984 imprint, offering a view of the region at a fascinating moment between postwar recreational growth and the more intensive development that would follow. At 1:24,000 scale, the map captures Big Bear Lake and its surrounding communities—Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City, Fawnskin, Moonridge, Sugarloaf, and the North and South Shore areas—with remarkable clarity. Roads, trails, forest boundaries, shorelines, and settlement patterns are rendered in the clean visual language of late twentieth-century American topographic mapping.
The central feature is Big Bear Lake itself, a high-altitude reservoir set within the San Bernardino Mountains and long cherished as a retreat from the cities below. The map traces the lake’s sinuous shoreline, the developed corridors along its southern edge, and the quieter forested reaches near Fawnskin and the North Shore. Nearby Baldwin Lake, Hardy Lake, and Lake Williams broaden the hydrological portrait of the region, revealing a landscape shaped by mountain basins, seasonal drainage, and human engineering. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest frames the map with an unmistakable sense of elevation and wilderness, while local roads and paths suggest the area’s growing importance for skiing, hiking, boating, and mountain tourism.
The topographic character of the map is especially compelling. Dense contour lines describe the rugged relief of the San Bernardino Mountains, while hachured patterns and shaded land-cover indications add texture to steep slopes, ridges, and forested terrain. Bear Mountain, Gold Mountain, Holcomb Valley, and the high country toward the San Gorgonio Wilderness emerge not simply as names, but as sculptural forms translated into cartographic language. The USGS style is functional yet elegant: a disciplined composition of symbols, contours, grids, and labels designed to make the land intelligible. The well-executed legend in the lower corner anchors the viewer, explaining a sophisticated visual system built for both accuracy and field use.
Historically, this map records Big Bear at a pivotal stage in its evolution. By 1970, the lake and surrounding communities had already become major destinations for Southern California recreation, with skiing at Bear Mountain, hiking through national forest lands, and lakeside tourism shaping the local economy. Yet the map also preserves a landscape less saturated by later resort expansion, second-home development, and year-round accessibility. The presence of State Route 38 and networks of local roads and trails reveals the growing infrastructure of leisure, while the forested backcountry still dominates the composition. It is a document of balance: mountain settlement, public land, recreation, and wilderness held in careful cartographic tension.
The US Geological Survey brought to this landscape a tradition of mapping rooted in science, public service, and national ambition. Since the late nineteenth century, USGS topographic sheets have guided engineers, land managers, hikers, planners, geologists, and soldiers, creating a shared geographic vocabulary for the American landscape. In “Big Bear Lake,” that institutional authority is evident in every contour, symbol, and measured boundary. The map is more than a practical record of place; it is a portrait of how the federal government observed, organized, and understood the mountainous West. For collectors, it offers a richly detailed view of a cherished California destination, captured with the calm precision of classic USGS cartography.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Big Bear Lake
- Big Bear City
- Fawnskin
- Baldwin Lake
- San Bernardino National Forest
- Holcomb Valley
- Bear Mountain
- Sugarloaf
- Moonridge
- North Shore
- South Shore
- Lake Arrowhead
- Hardy Lake
- Gold Mountain
- San Gorgonio Wilderness
- Lake Williams
- Roads: State Route 38 and various local roads
- Trails: Multiple hiking trails and paths throughout the national forest
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the US Geological Survey as a historical 1:24,000 topographical map.
- Dated 1970, with a 1984 imprint.
- Created by the US Geological Survey, renowned for detailed and accurate topographical mapping used in outdoor recreation, planning, and environmental management.
- Features detailed contour lines to show elevation changes across mountainous terrain.
- Uses hachures for steeper slopes and shading to indicate variations in land cover.
- Follows a clear, functional layout typical of standard USGS mapping conventions.
- Highlights the rugged topography of the San Bernardino Mountains.
- Reflects an area that has changed significantly since 1970 through development, recreation, increased tourism, and shifting land use.
- Includes a well-executed legend and visual styling characteristic of USGS maps from the period.
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
We work with interior designers, hospitality businesses, property professionals, offices and corporate buyers on individual pieces and larger coordinated projects.
This map can be adapted for a particular wall, room or project, and our workshop can help coordinate the dimensions, material and framing before production.
- Exact, oversized and made-to-measure dimensions
- Custom framing, mounting and alternative materials
- Coordinated pieces for several rooms or locations
- Map personalisation, to mark important locations or add extra details
- Map and framing guidance from our workshop
- Local production for projects around the world
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
We’ve been restoring and producing maps and art prints since 1984, and we stand behind every piece.
Every order is covered by our 10-year guarantee and damage-free delivery guarantee. If your piece arrives damaged, we’ll replace or remake it free of charge. If anything else isn’t right, contact our workshop team and we’ll put it right promptly.
See our returns and refund policy for full details.
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