2016 Map of Independence Spring

About this map

Nickel Creek Station sits as a lonely outpost in this arid Trans-Pecos landscape, marking the junction where US Hwy 62 180 cuts through the high desert of Culberson County. To the northwest, the boundary of Guadalupe Mountains National Park protects a topography defined by steep limestone escarpments and dry watercourses. The drainage patterns are particularly intricate here, with named features such as Bell Canyon, Rector Canyon, and McKittrick Canyon Draw carving out the terrain. Human presence is largely tied to water management in this harsh environment, evidenced by livestock watering holes like Seep Tank, Clay Tank, and Prairie Dog Tank. The map also captures Independence Spring, a critical desert water source located at the base of the mountains near Cottonwood Canyon.