1968 Map of Lava Hot Springs

South of the settlement, the terrain is defined by a series of deep canyons and seasonal water sources, such as Chatterton Canyon and Rough Canyon. The presence of several named springs, including Christenson Spring and Welcome Spring, suggests a landscape where water management was critical for local ranching and transit. To the east, Dempsey Creek and its tributaries like Beaverdam Creek drain the higher elevations, while numerous family-named roads like Smith Road and Newbold Road indicate established property lines and rural homesteads.