San Bernardino National Forest

San Bernardino National Forest is a protected area spanning Riverside and San Bernardino counties, connecting desert lowlands with forested mountain ridges. The terrain rises through different elevations, creating varied natural settings depending on how far you travel into the mountain ranges.

The area was placed under protection by the United States Forest Service in 1907 after conservationists had advocated for preserving these landscapes. This early protection decision was part of a broader movement to secure natural regions for future generations.

Native American tribes maintained strong connections to this land, utilizing its resources for hunting, gathering materials, and conducting traditional ceremonies throughout generations.

The area features a network of trails for walkers along with routes for cyclists and riders, offering various difficulty levels. The best time to explore is late spring through fall, when conditions are more stable and higher areas are easier to access.

Seven wilderness zones protect old forests with rare conifer species and diverse wildlife that visitors often overlook. These remote areas harbor natural habitats that have remained largely unchanged for decades.

Location: Riverside County

Location: San Bernardino County

Inception: February 25, 1893

Operator: United States Forest Service

Website: https://fs.usda.gov/sbnf

GPS coordinates: 33.52330,-116.42500

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:01