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1982 Map of Courtright Reservoir

Name: 1982 Topographic Map of Courtright Reservoir
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1983
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1983

About this map

Courtright Reservoir and Wishon Reservoir dominate this high-altitude landscape in the Sierra National Forest, revealing a complex mid-century hydroelectric system. The map details the massive infrastructure required to harness the North Fork Kings River, including the Courtright Dam, the Wishon Dam, and a sophisticated Underground Powerhouse connected by a surge chamber and tunnel network. These features illustrate the industrial transformation of the Sierra Nevada to meet California's growing energy demands during the mid-20th century.

Beyond the industrial sites, the map covers the eastern transition into the John Muir Wilderness, where the terrain shifts toward high-country lakes like Woodchuck Lake and peaks such as Loper Peak. Numerous high-country outposts like Chamberlains Camp, China Camp, and Lily Pad Campground are mapped alongside old resource extraction marks like the Prospect Mine and a Quarry, showing the dual identity of the region as both a recreation destination and a working industrial landscape.