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1959 Map of Shell Reef

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Shell Reef
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1960
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1960

About this map

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park defines the western landscape of this desert survey, where complex drainage systems like Tule Wash and Tarantula Wash carve through the arid terrain. The map documents the boundary between San Diego and Imperial counties, revealing a sparse network of desert survival and navigation markers. Water sources are scarce, noted by features like Five Palms Spring and several dry wells, including Wolfe Well (Dry) and another unnamed Well (Dry) near Benson Lake.

Cultural history is marked at the Los Puertecitos Historical Marker along a levee system in the southwest. The topography is characterized by distinctive geological formations, most notably the Shell Reef and the Ocotillo Badlands. For the desert traveler or researcher, the inclusion of the Pumpkin Patch and various Jeep Trails provides insight into the mid-century accessibility and landmarks of this remote California borderland.