From USDA Forest Service Site:

Located adjacent to southern California's large urban population, the mountains of Southern California offer unique opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

The clean air, blue skies, mountain lakes, challenging trails, and beautiful views of the valley below are just some of the surprises awaiting visitors.
Ranging in elevation from 2,000 feet on the valley floor to 11,502 feet at the top of Mount San Gorgonio, they contain many different habitats and over 440 species of wildlife for visitors to enjoy.

The wild lands of the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountain Ranges were designated a National Forest more than a hundred years ago. A National Forest is public land set aside for the conservation of natural resources such as trees, water, minerals, livestock range, recreation, or wildlife. The demands of millions of people, whether they be hikers, campers, wood cutters, miners, or business operators, are a challenge to meet.
 

San Bernardino National Forest Link