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1955 Map of Big Basin

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Big Basin
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1967
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1967

About this map

Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Portola State Park dominate this mid-century landscape in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The terrain is defined by the steep ridges of Butano Ridge and Ben Lomond Mtn, with a network of fire trails and dirt roads like China Grade and Empire Grade providing access through the dense forest. In the heart of the redwoods, the Park Headquarters includes the local post office, while the Sempervirens Reservoir and Blooms Creek support the park's early infrastructure.

Along the eastern corridor, the San Lorenzo River valley shows a distinct pattern of small riverside communities and camps, including Riverside Grove, Wildwood, and Camp Campbell. These settlements, along with family landmarks like Locatelli Ranch, reflect the area's development as a retreat and timber region. Unique aviation and industrial history is noted by the presence of Hilton Airport and an old Sawmill near Waterman Creek.