2021 Map of Agua Caliente Springs

About this map

The Great Southern Overland Stage Rte traces a historic transportation corridor through this arid landscape, passing the Vallecito Stage Station Cem where it meets Vallecito Creek. The map documents a rugged desert environment defined by the Tierra Blanca Mountains and the Sawtooth Mountains, where water remains the primary driver of geography. Notable water sources such as Agua Caliente Springs and Burro Spring anchor the few points of human interest, including the Agua Caliente Springs Airport. The terrain is deeply incised by drainages like Canebrake Canyon, Ironwood Canyon, and Smuggler Canyon, illustrating the complex drainage patterns of the Carrizo Valley and Vallecito Valley. This contemporary survey preserves the names of distinct landmarks like Red Top and The Potrero, which have served as navigational waypoints for travelers in this part of San Diego County for generations.