1971 Map of Murphy Waterholes

About this map

Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge dominates the western portion of this high desert landscape, preserving a critical sanctuary for regional wildlife. The topography is defined by the Murphy Waterholes, a series of essential water sources scattered across the arid terrain. These features, along with Pistol Lake and several named sites like Westside Waterhole and Zero Waterhole, underscore the importance of water management for both wildlife and livestock in this environment. A network of primitive transport is visible via the Jeep Trail, which winds through the area toward landmarks such as the Murphy Corral. In the south, the terrain drops into Black Canyon, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding flats and buttes. This survey captures a moment when the land was primarily used for conservation and seasonal grazing before more modern developments reached this part of Lake County.