This is my first time hunting and I wanted to know if anyone knows a good area for bear in southern California

Most areas are closed in southern CA should check the regs and see what is open .I did here some more area is going to be opened farther south .Of coures I dont know where in CA you are .There are some good bear in d3 d4 d5 d6 and d7 .

I did some bear hunting in Lake and Mendecino counties when I was stationed there from 1992-1995. That area is north of Napa and Calistoga. Lots of bear there and also a lot of blacktails. But it really doesn't qualify as Southern Ca. Can't help you there since I saw no reason to go south of San Jose in the 3 years I spent in Ca. And I have not returned to the state since 1995.

Good population of bear in the Green Horn mountain area north of Lake Isabella, call local DFG Wardens and ask them what areas would be best. That whole area all the way up through the western slope of the Sierras holds good populations, just need to inquire around a bit.

Thanks guys. That information was very useful. Holly I live in Los Angeles.

Most of these other people gave you the best advise on the question .