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1955 Map of Big Maria Mts SE

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Big Maria Mts SE
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1979
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1979

About this map

The Giant Indian Intaglios overlook the river valley from the desert pavement, marking a significant cultural site on the California side of the border. This 1950s survey captures the river's path before later modernization, documenting a seasonal economy defined by riverside recreation and small-scale ranching. The Colorado River serves as the central artery, separating the Colorado River Indian Reservation on the Arizona side from the high terrain of the Big Maria Mountains in Riverside County.

Remote outposts and small landings such as River Bend Lodge, Haakers Camp, and Thompsons Camp line the western bank, while Hills Ranch sits further south near the Blythe Boat Club. The transition from the alluvial plain to the uplands is marked by scattered activity, including a Prospect and a Gravel Pit, reached only by a rugged Jeep Trail. Survey markers like Marie and Tosco provide the primary navigational points across this arid landscape.