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2014 Map of Imperial Valley South

Name: 2014 Topographic Map of Imperial Valley South
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2014
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2014

About this map

Imperial sits at the northern edge of this high desert terrain, serving as a rare point of human interest in the sprawling Imperial Valley. The landscape is defined by its seasonal hydrology and volcanic topography, featuring numerous basins like Sunflower Lake, Mud Lake, and Grassy Lake that punctuate the arid flats. Significant elevation changes are marked by Bronco Butte and Corral Butte, while the drainage of Rimrock Cr and Espeland Draw highlights the natural corridors of the region.

Survival in this part of Deschutes County has long depended on localized water sources, evidenced by the presence of Nershall Well, Rim Waterhole, and Meeks Waterhole. Movement through the area is facilitated by Us-20 and secondary routes like Fredrick Butte Rd, which connect the open expanses of Sunflower Flat and Braken Flat. These landmarks provide essential waypoints for understanding the historical land use and ranching heritage of Oregon's high interior.