The Cragmont area was mostly grassland with oak and bay laurel trees in the canyons until the beginnings of the American era.

When a one-mile (1.6 km) exclusion zone for the sale of liquor was imposed with respect to the campus of the University of California, a local farmer opened up a saloon at what is now the corner of Spruce Street and Marin Avenue.

In the early 20th century, a streetcar line operated by the Key System was opened up along Euclid Avenue to Hilgard Street near the University campus.

Many homes in the Cragmont area command an outstanding view of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate.

On the other hand, houses are closely spaced and there are many trees, posing a very high fire hazard during episodes of warm, dry and windy weather.