Development Opportunity

• Zoning: Destination Recreation (DR) (a) Definition This designation is intended to accommodate residential land uses, low intensity service commercial and recreation entertainment uses that are sensitive to the physical and environmental constraints of the area. The DR designation will also allow planned development residential uses that incorporate mixed use or recreational amenities. This designation provides for the continued use of existing single-family residential uses on large parcels. Land uses allowed within this designation include recreation vehicle parks, private campgrounds, residential uses, bed and breakfast establishments, restaurants, and limited retail commercial, as well as a full range of recreation-oriented activities. {Refer to pg. 116 of Glen Helen Specific Plan}
• North Glen Helen: This planning sub-area is the center of regional recreation activities within and adjacent to the Glen Helen Regional Park. It encompasses mostly active recreation spaces (except for the nature area and boardwalk), including the dominant Amphitheater. This planning sub-area also extends west of the I-15 freeway and includes some private property because of the close relationship of uses. The single-family homes in this area are within the San Bernardino National Forest. It is logical to assume that land uses in this area will be related to land uses at the park because its primary access goes through park property.
• Road Access: Paved and well-maintained roads lead directly to the property, ensuring smooth and efficient travel for vehicles of all sizes. The pathway leading from Glen Helen Road is an easement over county property, primarily composed of dirt and gravel. This unpaved road provides access to the house and, while it may be less smooth than paved roads, it is navigable by most vehicles. Regular maintenance may be required to keep the pathway in optimal condition, especially after inclement weather. The rustic nature of the road adds a rural charm to the property, enhancing its secluded and private feel.
• Proximity to Major Roads: 2150 Glen Helen Road in San Bernardino boasts excellent connectivity to major roads, enhancing its accessibility and appeal for commercial purposes. The property is conveniently located near:
Interstate 15: Approximately 1 mile away - providing a direct route to the Greater Los Angeles area and Las Vegas.
Interstate 215: Roughly 2 miles away – offering easy access to downtown San Bernardino and Riverside.
This strategic position ensures seamless travel and transportation, making it an ideal location for business and commerce.
• Topography: Sycamore Flats - This is actually two undeveloped areas of somewhat different characteristics: Sycamore Flat, along the east side of the I-15 Freeway, and Sycamore Canyon, a topographically varied area of private property on the west side of the freeway in the San Bernardino National Forest. Sycamore Flat is characterized by gently sloping terrain, a stream with a ponded freshwater marsh and surrounding riparian vegetation near the I-15 freeway. These two areas have a strong visual, biological and historical identity within the Glen Helen area.
Sycamore Canyon, is a distinctive geographical region known for its varied topography, rich natural features, and scenic landscapes. The canyon is characterized by its dramatic elevation changes, diverse vegetation and significant geological formations. Features are a mix of rolling hills, steep slopes, and flat valley floors. The elevation ranges from approximately 1,200 feet at the canyon floor to over 2,500 feet at its highest points. The terrain is predominantly rugged, with numerous ridges and escarpments providing panoramic views of the surrounding region. These elevation changes contribute to the area’s diverse microclimates and habitats.
• Geological Features: The canyon’s geology is complex, with a variety of rock formations visible throughout the area. The bedrock primarily consists of granitic and metamorphic rocks, with occasional outcrops of sedimentary layers. Erosion and weathering have sculpted the landscape, creating unique features such as rock outcroppings, cliffs, and narrow gorges.
• Vegetation: The vegetation in Sycamore Canyon is varied and reflective of the area’s topography and climate. Lower elevations and valley floors are dominated by coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities, which include plants such as California sagebrush, black sage, and chamise. Higher elevations and north-facing slopes support oak woodlands and mixed chaparral, with species such as coast live oak, sycamore trees, and manzanita. The riparian zones along the streams feature willows, cottonwoods, and a dense understory of shrubs and grasses.
• Wildlife: The diverse habitats within Sycamore Canyon support a wide range of wildlife. Commonly seen mammals include mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, and various small mammals. The area is also home to numerous bird species, such as red-tailed hawks, California quail, and various songbirds. Reptiles and amphibians, including western fence lizards and Pacific tree frogs, are also abundant.
• Water: Several seasonal streams traverse Sycamore Canyon, contributing to its lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems. These watercourses flow during the rainy season, carving channels through the canyon floor and providing critical water sources for local wildlife. The primary stream in the canyon is Sycamore Creek, which meanders through the valley and supports riparian habitats.
• Soil: The soils in this region are influenced by the underlying bedrock, climate, and biological activity, resulting in a mosaic of soil characteristics that support different plant communities and land uses.