1952 Map of La Panza

About this map

San Juan Creek carves a central path through this landscape, dividing the high ridges of the Temblor Range in the east from the heavily wooded canyons of the Los Padres National Forest in the west. This 1952 culture revision by the U.S. Geological Survey documents a remote section of the California coast ranges where ranching and early petroleum exploration defined the local economy. Established outposts like La Panza Ranch, French Camp, and Pinole Ranch serve as primary landmarks in a region largely defined by its drainage basins, including Navajo Creek and Bitterwater Creek. The presence of several springs, such as Mustang Spring and Pinole Spring, highlights the critical importance of water sources for both livestock and travelers. Geologic features like Syncline Hill and the rugged Castle Crags further illustrate the complex topography that characterizes this part of San Luis Obispo County.