High up in the hills near Idyllwild, quaint and charming Lake Fulmor—not too big, not too small—is just right for relaxing in the cool, quiet shade. It’s not a place to go to be super active. There’s no boating. No swimming. Nothing to distract you from enjoying peace and quiet at this lake nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest.

If you’re looking for a little bit of action, you can stroll the approximately 1-mile loop around the 3-acre lake, maybe pausing on the observation pier to watch ducks play in the water. Much of the shore of Lake Fulmor is lined with picnic tables and grills, but you can also pack a picnic blanket and find a more secluded spot across the lake. Love fishing? The lake is stocked with trout, and you can pull up a chair anywhere you like along the lake shore to toss a line. Watch dragonflies dart around the water and listen to the sounds of Steller’s jays as you enjoy the idyllic scenery that surrounds you.

The lake is just 20 minutes from beautiful little Idyllwild should you need a “city” fix. But sometimes just a day of doing absolutely nothing in the beauty of nature beside a placid lake is exactly what the doctor ordered.

Lake Fulmor is located off CA-243 between Banning and Idyllwild. From the I-10, take Exit 100 onto 8th St. (CA-243), and continue 14.8 miles toward Idyllwild. Lake Fulmor Day Use Area parking lot is on the right, and the lake is directly across the road. Adventure Pass required. Lake Fulmor is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dog-friendly!