Kuruvungna Springs, Los Angeles, California, CA, 90025

## Overview Kuruvungna Springs is one of the last remaining natural springs in the Los Angeles basin, carrying deep cultural and historical significance as a sacred site of the Tongva (Gabrielino) people. The name "Kuruvungna" comes from the Tongva language, roughly translating to "a place where we are in the sun." For thousands of years before European contact, this spring served as a vital water source and gathering place for the Tongva, one of the indigenous peoples of the greater Los Angeles region. Today, the spring sits within the grounds of University High School at 1441 South Barrington Avenue in West Los Angeles. Despite being surrounded by urban development, the spring continues to flow — a remarkable testament to the persistence of natural water in one of America's most heavily developed cities. The Gabrielino/Tongva Springs Foundation has worked to protect and preserve the site, maintaining it as a cultural center and living museum. The spring and its surrounding wetland habitat remain an important ecological and cultural landmark. The Tongva community and their allies have long advocated against efforts to cap or redirect the spring, arguing for its preservation as both a cultural heritage site and a potentially critical natural water resource. Some observers have noted that in the event of a major earthquake disrupting the city's water infrastructure, natural springs like Kuruvungna could become invaluable emergency water sources for the surrounding community. ## Directions 1. Head to **University High School**, located at **1441 South Barrington Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025**. 2. The Kuruvungna Springs Cultural Center and Museum is situated on the school grounds, toward the back of the campus. 3. Look for signage directing you to the **Gabrielino/Tongva Springs Foundation** area. 4. **Public access is available on Saturdays** — check the foundation's website at [www.gabrielinosprings.com](http://www.gabrielinosprings.com) for current visiting hours and any special event schedules before making the trip. 5. GPS coordinates: **34.045275, -118.459056**. ## What to Expect Visitors to Kuruvungna Springs will find a surprisingly lush, green oasis tucked behind a public high school in the heart of West LA. The site is managed by the Gabrielino/Tongva Springs Foundation, which operates a small cultural center and museum on the grounds. The spring feeds a natural pool that supports a healthy ecosystem, including crayfish and other aquatic life — indicators of relatively clean, flowing water. At the far end of the open field area, you can see the actual spring source where water emerges from the ground. The surrounding wetland vegetation and mature trees create a peaceful, shaded environment that feels worlds away from the busy streets of Los Angeles. The site is generally open to the public on **Saturdays only**, so plan your visit accordingly. Guided tours and educational programs are sometimes offered through the foundation. The cultural center provides context on Tongva history, the significance of the spring, and ongoing preservation efforts. This is a culturally sensitive and historically significant site. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the space, stay on designated paths, and follow any posted guidelines. It is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in indigenous history, urban ecology, or the hidden natural features of Los Angeles.