1952 Map of Patterson Mountain

About this map

Balch Camp serves as a focal point for utility and conservation work in this mid-century survey of the southern Sierra Nevada. The terrain is dominated by the confluence of the Kings River and the North Fork Kings River, where the Kings River Reservoir had begun to transform the river valley. The map documents a transitional landscape of forest management and hydroelectric infrastructure, evidenced by the Powerhouse near the river and several administrative outposts like the Black Rock Guard Sta and Rock House Guard Sta. High ridges such as Rodgers Ridge and Patterson Mountain are punctuated by fire detection points including the Fence Meadow Lookout. For the historian, the map preserves the locations of former activity at Sawmill Flat (Site) and Rancheria (Site), alongside specialized facilities like the State Fish Hatchery near Kellers Ranch.