History

The Crafton Hills and the surrounding city of Yucaipa has a rich history dating back thousands of years to a time when Serrano and Cahuilla Native American tribes thrived in the region's fertile valleys and abundant natural resources. The arrival of American pioneers and settlers in the mid 19th century led to the establishment of ranches, orchards, and farms, capitalizing on the area's agricultural potential. 

One of the earliest of these pioneers was John W. Crafton, who settled in the valley in the mid-19th century and became a pivotal figure in this new growing agricultural community Crafton was a rancher who cultivated vast tracts of land in Yucaipa but also served as justice of the peace and contributed to the establishment of schools and other community institutions. In recognition of his contributions to the area, the Crafton Hills were named in his honor to serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy and the enduring impact he had on the development of the region.

In the late 20th century, Yucaipa began evolving from a rural agricultural community into a thriving suburban city. Residential development expanded, and the city's population grew steadily. However, amidst this growth, efforts to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Crafton Hills gained momentum. In the late 1980's concerned citizens, environmental organizations, and local government agencies recognized the importance of protecting the Crafton Hills and surrounding open spaces from unchecked development. Thanks to the hard work of visionaries such as Earl Giddings, Robert Galbraith, Ingrid Lagerlof, and Al Kelley, the Crafton Hills Open Space Conservancy (CHOSC) was officially established in 1992 with the goal of preserving the area's pristine landscape for future generations to enjoy. Click here to see the Conservancy's very first newsletter, outlining the founders' hopes for the preserve. 

Today, Yucaipa remains a vibrant thriving community with a strong connection to its agricultural heritage and natural surroundings. The Crafton Hills continue to serve as a recreational haven for residents and visitors, offering hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration opportunities amidst breathtaking scenery. And through ongoing conservation initiatives led by the Conservancy, the legacy of the Crafton Hills as a treasured natural resource endures, ensuring that its beauty and biodiversity are safeguarded for years to come.