Big Bear (Pine Knot) was originally settled by Serranno Indians. They lived near Pan Hot Springs on the North Shore. Significant artifacts were unearthed when the Discovery Center was built.

The Big Bear Valley became attractive to gold miners. Many of them built one room cabins in Holcomb Valley and worked placer mines. There was a significant amount of gold found in the valley.

Eventually Big Bear became attractive to tourists. There were many lodges with cabins built to accommodate the seasonal traveler. The best known resort was the Peter Pan Woodland Club. It was a world class facility built by Guy Maltby in the 1920’s. His cabins are still seen throughout Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City today.

Cattle ranching was found through out the valley. The Hitchcock Ranch was is Holcomb Valley and the Shay Ranch was in Big Bear. Annual roundup were held at China Gardens, which is the hospital area today. Most of the ranch building are gone. You can still see parts of the Hitchcock Ranch today. Stop at the Discovery Center of directions.