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1958 Map of Big Lake

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Big Lake
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1974
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1974

About this map

The Apache Indian Reservation and Apache National Forest meet in this mid-century survey of the Arizona high country. A network of ranching and forestry outposts defines the landscape, anchored by the Phelps Ranch, Thompson Ranch, and Reservation Ranch. The presence of several distinct encampments, such as Church Camp and Big Lake Forest Camp, suggests a region transitioning into a hub for summer recreation and religious retreats.

Water management is central to the area's utility, evidenced by the Lee Valley Reservoir, Atcheson Reservoir, and numerous named springs like Seven Springs. Traditional crossing points and landmarks, including Buffalo Crossing and Pat Knoll Guard Sta, highlight the infrastructure used by forest rangers and cattlemen before the expansion of more modern road systems. The terrain is marked by volcanic features, including a Cinder Pit near Crescent Lake.