County of san bernardino
california
History & Founding
Established in 1853, this California county initially encompassed a vast territory, stretching from the Nevada border to Los Angeles. Its name honors Saint Bernardino of Siena, an Italian friar and saint, chosen by the early settlers who were Roman Catholics. The area had long been inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Serrano and Cahuilla peoples, whose history predates European arrival by millennia. The county’s early development was intrinsically linked to the gold rush and subsequent westward expansion. The discovery of gold in the nearby San Bernardino Mountains drew prospectors and settlers, transforming the region from a sparsely populated area to a burgeoning frontier. An interesting anecdote from this era recounts the story of the Butterfield Overland Mail route, which briefly ran through the county in the 1850s, carrying mail and passengers across the Southwest, further solidifying its place in the state's early transportation network.
Geography & Landscape
Located in Southern California, this county occupies a geographically diverse landscape. It’s the largest county in the state by area, encompassing nearly a quarter of California’s total landmass. The terrain ranges dramatically from the arid Mojave Desert in the north and east to the coastal foothills of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains in the west. Major rivers include the Mojave, Santa Ana, and Mojave Rivers, though many are seasonal. The county boasts a few reservoirs, like Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake, nestled in the mountains, providing recreational opportunities. The climate is varied, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, though mountain areas experience colder temperatures and snowfall. The San Bernardino Mountains are a significant feature, offering stunning views and outdoor recreation.
Economy & Communities
The county is a complex blend of urban, suburban, and rural communities. Forty-one cities and towns dot the landscape, including San Bernardino (the county seat), Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, and Victorville. The economy is multifaceted. Agriculture remains important, with crops like citrus fruits, avocados, and alfalfa being cultivated in the fertile valleys. Industry is a significant driver, with logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing playing crucial roles. Major employers include logistics companies like Amazon and UPS, as well as manufacturers and healthcare providers. The eastern portion of the county retains a more rural character, with sprawling desert landscapes and a slower pace of life, contrasting with the more densely populated western areas.
Points of Interest
Points of interest abound throughout the county. The San Bernardino National Forest offers extensive hiking, camping, and mountain biking trails. Calico Ghost Town, a former silver mining town, provides a glimpse into the region’s Wild West history. The Auto Club Speedway, a renowned motorsports venue, hosts major racing events. The county is also home to numerous parks and recreation areas, including Mojave Narrows Regional Park. Notable residents throughout history have included actors, musicians, and business leaders. The county holds the distinction of having hosted the first McDonald's restaurant, a testament to its role in the development of American culture and consumerism.
Information
- State
- california
- Type
- County
- Population
- 1,709,434
- Land area
- 20,062 sq mi
- Capital
- San Bernardino
- Time zone
- UTC-8
- FIPS
- 06071
41 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| San Bernardino | 185,401 | 1,200 ft (366 m) |
| Ontario | 158,007 | 988 ft (301 m) |
| Fontana | 128,929 | 1,232 ft (376 m) |
| Rancho Cucamonga | 127,743 | 1,200 ft (366 m) |
| Rialto | 91,873 | 1,240 ft (378 m) |
| Upland | 68,393 | 1,300 ft (396 m) |
| Chino | 67,168 | 750 ft (229 m) |
| Chino Hills | 66,787 | 1,200 ft (366 m) |
| Victorville | 64,029 | 2,715 ft (828 m) |
| Redlands | 63,591 | 1,360 ft (415 m) |
| Hesperia | 62,582 | 3,191 ft (973 m) |
| Apple Valley | 54,239 | 2,947 ft (898 m) |
| Colton | 47,662 | 1,000 ft (305 m) |
| Highland | 44,605 | 1,315 ft (401 m) |
| Yucaipa | 41,207 | 2,622 ft (799 m) |
| Montclair | 33,049 | 1,060 ft (323 m) |
| Big Bear | 24,865 | 6,757 ft (2,060 m) |
| Barstow | 21,119 | - |
| Bloomington | 19,318 | 1,090 ft (332 m) |
| Loma Linda | 18,681 | 1,160 ft (354 m) |
| Adelanto | 18,130 | 2,880 ft (878 m) |
| Yucca Valley | 16,865 | 3,279 ft (999 m) |
| Twentynine Palms | 14,764 | 2,001 ft (610 m) |
| Grand Terrace | 11,626 | 1,040 ft (317 m) |
| Crestline | 10,218 | 4,720 ft (1,439 m) |
| Lake Arrowhead | 8,934 | 5,191 ft (1,582 m) |
| Muscoy | 8,919 | 1,385 ft (422 m) |
| Mentone | 7,803 | 1,660 ft (506 m) |
| Big Bear City | 5,779 | 6,757 ft (2,060 m) |
| Big Bear Lake | 5,438 | 6,754 ft (2,059 m) |
| Running Springs | 5,125 | 6,040 ft (1,841 m) |
| Needles | 4,830 | 488 ft (149 m) |
| Joshua Tree | 4,207 | 2,728 ft (831 m) |
| Wrightwood | 3,837 | 5,931 ft (1,808 m) |
| Lenwood | 3,222 | 2,260 ft (689 m) |
| San Antonio Heights | 3,122 | 2,000 ft (610 m) |
| Mountain View Acres | 2,521 | 3,072 ft (936 m) |
| Morongo Valley | 1,929 | 2,538 ft (774 m) |
| Searles Valley | 1,885 | 2,110 ft (643 m) |
| Big River | 1,266 | 435 ft (133 m) |
| Bluewater | 265 | 364 ft (111 m) |