Oak Hills, CA
County: San Bernardino
History
Oak Hills, California is an unincorporated community located in San Bernardino County. It is situated in the Mojave Desert region of Southern California, approximately 75 miles northeast of Los Angeles.
The area now known as Oak Hills was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Serrano and Mojave people. The Spanish explorers arrived in the area in the late 18th century, led by Francisco Garcés, but there was minimal permanent settlement by Europeans until much later.
In the mid-1800s, the California Gold Rush attracted people to the region, and the area now known as Oak Hills became an important route for travelers and traders. The Mojave Road, a historic trade route connecting the Spanish missions in California to the New Mexico Territory, passed through this area.
The late 19th century saw the arrival of ranchers and homesteaders who settled in the area, attracted by the availability of water and fertile soil. The Southern Pacific Railroad established a route nearby, further contributing to the growth and development of the region.
The 20th century brought further development to the area. In the 1930s, construction of the U.S. Route 66, a transcontinental highway, increased traffic through the region. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that significant residential development occurred in Oak Hills.
Oak Hills began to experience significant growth in the late 1980s and 1990s, as the construction of Interstate 15 made the area more accessible and attractive to commuters working in cities such as Los Angeles and San Bernardino. This led to a boom in housing development and population growth.
Today, Oak Hills is a predominantly residential community with a mix of single-family homes and ranches. The community is known for its rural atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to outdoor recreational activities in the surrounding desert and mountains.
Despite being part of the larger Hesperia community, residents in Oak Hills have voiced desires for incorporation to maintain the rural and suburban character of their neighborhood, but these efforts have not been successful thus far.
Overall, Oak Hills is a community with a rich history that has transformed from a stop along historic trade routes to a thriving residential area in the Mojave Desert.
Attractions
Oak Hills, CA is a small community located in San Bernardino County, California. While it may not have as many attractions as larger cities, there are still a few notable places to visit in the area. Here are some attractions near Oak Hills:
California Route 66 Museum
Located in nearby Victorville, this museum showcases the history and culture of the iconic Route 66. Visitors can explore exhibits related to the route's significance and see vintage cars and memorabilia.
Hesperia Lake Park
This park is a popular destination for fishing and outdoor activities. It offers fishing lakes, picnic areas, hiking trails, and camping facilities.
Victor Valley Museum
Also located in Victorville, this museum exhibits the history, anthropology, and natural history of the Victor Valley. It includes displays of fossils, Native American artifacts, and local history exhibitions.
Mojave Narrows Regional Park
Situated in nearby Victorville, this park encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including a lake, wetlands, and grasslands. It offers activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
A short drive from Oak Hills, this state recreation area is centered around Silverwood Lake, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking.
Mormon Rocks
These geological formations, located near Oak Hills, are a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The unique rock formations offer opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.
While Oak Hills itself may not have many attractions, its proximity to nearby cities like Victorville allows for easy access to various points of interest.
Climate
Oak Hills, CA has a semi-arid climate, characterized by warm to hot summers and mild to cool winters. The region is located in the High Desert area of Southern California, which is known for its lower elevations and drier conditions compared to coastal regions.
Summers in Oak Hills are typically hot and dry, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (29-32°C) to the low 100s°F (38-41°C). Heatwaves are common during the summer months, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 110°F (43°C). However, the area experiences relatively low humidity which can make the heat more bearable.
Winters in Oak Hills are generally mild and cool, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-50s°F (12-15°C) to the mid-60s°F (16-18°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop into the 30s°F (0-3°C), but freezing temperatures are not typical. Winter months also receive the most precipitation, although total rainfall is still relatively low compared to other regions of California.
Spring and fall in Oak Hills are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures. Spring is generally dry and warm, while fall sees mild temperatures with occasional Santa Ana wind events that can increase fire danger.
Overall, Oak Hills has a desert-like climate with hot, dry summers and mild, cooler winters. The region experiences low average annual rainfall, and residents should be prepared for temperature extremes and occasional windy conditions.
Neighborhoods
Oak Hills, CA is a small unincorporated community located in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California. It is situated in the southern part of the state, about 85 miles northeast of Los Angeles. Oak Hills is known for its scenic beauty, open spaces, and rural atmosphere. The community is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Oak Hills:
Oak Hills Estates
Oak Hills Estates is one of the most well-established neighborhoods in the area. It features larger custom-built homes on spacious lots that provide residents with privacy and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
West Oak Hills
West Oak Hills is known for its large estate-style homes and rural environment. This neighborhood offers a mix of custom-built properties and single-family homes on large lots. Residents enjoy the tranquility and privacy that comes with living in a more secluded part of Oak Hills.
East Oak Hills
East Oak Hills is also a primarily residential area, offering a combination of larger custom-built homes and smaller single-family residences. Some properties in this neighborhood are equestrian-friendly, with horse facilities and riding trails, reflecting the region's rural character.
Cedar Glen
Cedar Glen is a more suburban neighborhood in Oak Hills, with a mix of detached single-family homes and townhouses. It offers a slightly more affordable housing option compared to other areas in Oak Hills. Cedar Glen is known for its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere.
Summit Estates
Summit Estates is a newer development within Oak Hills, featuring modern custom-built homes on large lots. This neighborhood offers a more upscale living experience, with well-maintained streets, landscaping, and amenities like park areas and walking trails.
Desert View Highlands
Desert View Highlands is a neighborhood located on the outskirts of Oak Hills, offering a more remote and secluded living experience. Properties in this area are typically larger, with expansive desert landscapes and panoramic mountain views.
Overall, Oak Hills consists of diverse neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for larger estate-style homes, a more suburban setting, or a more remote desert escape, Oak Hills has a range of options to choose from.