Cooper Cienega, Aguanga, CA, 92536

## Overview Cooper Cienega is a natural spring located in the rolling hills near Aguanga in San Diego County, California. Situated at an elevation typical of the transitional terrain between the Anza Valley and the Aguanga area, this spring sits in a "cienega" — a Spanish term for a marshy, spring-fed wetland — suggesting a history of persistent groundwater seepage in the area. The name hints at both early settler heritage and the region's Spanish-colonial past, when cienegas were vital water sources for travelers, ranchers, and livestock in the arid Southern California landscape. Water quality readings submitted by visitors indicate a pH of 5.8, which is mildly acidic, and a total dissolved solids (TDS) reading of 480 ppm. The slightly acidic pH and moderate mineral content may reflect the local granitic and metamorphic geology common to the Peninsular Ranges of San Diego County. These readings suggest the water carries a noticeable mineral character. The spring is categorized as a public drinking spring, and the area has historically been used as a water source by locals and passersby. As with any natural, untreated water source, conditions can change over time, and visitors should be aware that water quality may vary seasonally. ## What to Expect Cooper Cienega is located in a semi-rural area east of Temecula and south of Anza, surrounded by chaparral-covered hills and open grasslands. The landscape is characteristic of inland San Diego County — dry and sun-drenched in summer, but greener and more lush during the cooler, wetter months from late fall through spring. The cienega environment may support riparian vegetation and attract local wildlife, making it a pleasant spot for nature observation. The GPS coordinates (33.416162, -116.678718) place the spring in the general vicinity of Aguanga, near the intersection of several rural roads. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved or minimally maintained access roads in the area. Cell service can be spotty in this part of the county, so downloading offline maps before your visit is recommended. Water flow at cienegas can be seasonal and may diminish significantly during prolonged dry spells or drought years. If you're visiting specifically for the water, late winter through early spring typically offers the best flow after seasonal rains. Summer visitors may find reduced output.