Howdy there Auggie Doggie.....I guess you didnt know the many Black Bears in the San Bernardino mountains do not hibernate. Many head down to a lower elevation to forage and scavange. As a longtime landowner in Juniper Flats, I have witnessed a bear run by my front yard much to my suprise! I too thought they were supposed to be napping. Others have seen them too and we find tracks around the riparian areas almost every winter along with some really big kittys.
From your suprise post, I would guess that you enjoy OHV riding in the area. There is plenty of room to ride out there and the Cottonwood Spring is just one small quiet place. I hope you and your friends are respecting the designated route regulations out there and please take some time to explore on foot. You may be suprised at what you see when its really quiet.