1965 Map of Lopez Mountain

About this map

Los Padres National Forest dominates this mid-1960s survey, revealing a landscape defined by sharp ridges and deep riparian canyons. The upper reaches of the Salinas River flow through the northeast corner, joined by tributaries like Las Pilitas Creek and Rinconada Creek. This era of the forest is marked by recreational and industrial pockets, including the Upper Lopez Campground and a specific Oil Well located near the riverbank. High peaks such as Mt Lowe and Lopez Mtn provide significant vertical relief above the winding Lopez Canyon. The presence of Sulphur Pots along the canyon floor suggests the unique geothermal or mineral character of the local geology. Numerous springs are mapped throughout the hills, indicating the critical water sources that supported early cattle ranching and homesteading on flats like Yerba Buena Flat.