1967 Map of Santa Margarita Lake

About this map

The Santa Margarita Lake reservoir dominates the western portion of this 1967 survey, held in place by a spillway at 1,301 feet. The surrounding landscape within the Los Padres National Forest reveals a history of resource extraction and transit, notably at the Rinconada Mine and the Mercury Belle Mine tucked into the southern hills. Settlement is concentrated along the river valleys and flats, with rural hubs at Pozo and Pippin Corner serving as anchors for the local road network. The terrain is defined by dramatic elevation changes, rising from the Salinas River and Pozo River to the heights of Garcia Mountain and Hi Mountain. Numerous springs and seasonal creeks, such as Salsipuedes Creek and Little Falls Spring, suggest a rugged environment where water sources dictated the placement of early homesteads and campgrounds like the Hi Mtn Campground.