Tongva Sacred Springs

Introduction

Kuruvungna Springs—commonly known as Tongva Sacred Springs—stands as one of Los Angeles’s most vital Indigenous cultural and ecological landmarks. For over 8,000 years, these artesian springs have supported the Tongva people, the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles Basin and the Southern Channel Islands. Kuruvungna, meaning "the place where we are in the sun," is a living testament to Tongva heritage, spiritual practice, and ongoing environmental stewardship. Today, the springs remain a rare oasis where visitors can experience the intersection of ancient tradition and modern preservation within the city’s urban landscape (Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation website; Santa Monica Conservancy).

This guide provides everything you need to plan a respectful and meaningful visit, including up-to-date visiting hours, ticketing details, accessibility, travel tips, and the cultural significance of the site.

Ancient Origins and Tongva Heritage

Kuruvungna Springs is among the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the Los Angeles region, with archaeological evidence pointing to over 8,000 years of occupation (Gabrielino Springs; LAist). The springs provide a perennial source of freshwater, sustaining a thriving Tongva village that was central to trade, ceremony, and daily life (Journee Mondiale).

Kuruvungna’s lush landscape, fed by artesian upwelling, nurtures native willows, sycamores, and cottonwoods, as well as wildlife like tree frogs, lizards, and migratory birds. Tongva traditional ecological knowledge is reflected in the use of native plants for food, medicine, and ritual. Every feature of the springs was—and remains—integral to Tongva worldview, emphasizing the interconnectedness of people, land, water, and non-human relatives (nationalforest.travel).

Colonial Encounters and Displacement

The arrival of the Spanish in the late 18th century marked a turning point for the Tongva community. Following the Portolá expedition’s encampment at Kuruvungna in 1769, Spanish missionaries began a campaign of forced relocation and missionization, which led to the displacement and suppression of Tongva cultural practices (Gabrielino Springs; Native Tribe Info). Despite these profound disruptions, the Tongva maintained ties to the springs, which continued to serve as a gathering place and cultural symbol through subsequent Mexican and American periods (Alta Online).

20th Century Neglect and Community-Led Restoration

By the 1920s, most of Los Angeles’s natural springs were lost to urban development or pollution. Kuruvungna Springs survived but faced significant neglect after the property became part of University High School (Alta Online). By the early 1990s, the site was overrun by debris and invasive species.

Restoration began in 1991 when Tongva descendant Angie Behrns and community volunteers initiated cleanup efforts, leading to the formation of the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation (Santa Monica Conservancy; Gabrielino Springs). Aided by state funding and a growing coalition of supporters, the Foundation restored native vegetation, reconstructed traditional dwellings, and established a cultural center and interpretive museum (Journee Mondiale).

Visiting Tongva Sacred Springs: Hours, Tickets, and Access

Location

Kuruvungna Springs University High School
11800 Texas Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025

Visiting Hours

• Open to the public: The first Saturday of each month, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
• Special events: Additional hours may apply during festivals or volunteer days. Check updates on the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation website or LA Climate Reality calendar.

Tickets and Admission

• Admission: Free; no tickets required. Donations are encouraged to support ongoing preservation and educational programs.

Accessibility

• Limited wheelchair accessibility due to natural terrain; paved paths are available in some areas. Contact the Foundation in advance for specific needs.

Directions and Parking

• Parking: Limited on-site and street parking. Public transportation is recommended; several Metro bus lines serve the area.
• Entry: Use the main school gates; signage and volunteers will guide you to the springs.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Sites

Enhance your visit by exploring other nearby sites:

• Getty Center: Art, architecture, and gardens.
• Santa Monica Pier: Iconic coastal destination.
• Autry Museum of the American West: Indigenous and Western history exhibits.
• Ballona Wetlands & Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area: Additional opportunities to explore Indigenous land stewardship (nationalforest.travel).

Ongoing Stewardship and Cultural Revitalization

The Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation leads stewardship of Kuruvungna Springs in partnership with University High School and LAUSD. The site features reconstructed kiiys (traditional houses), native gardens, and interpretive panels, and houses a small museum and cultural center (Santa Monica Conservancy). Annual events like Indigenous Peoples’ Day and monthly open days offer ceremonies, storytelling, traditional food, and educational activities (Gabrielino Springs).

Stewardship efforts focus on invasive species removal, replanting native flora, and protecting water quality. Volunteers are welcome at monthly restoration events. The site remains a hub for cultural revitalization, language programs, and community outreach (Native Tribe Info).

Visitor Etiquette and Guidelines

• Remain on marked paths to protect sensitive habitats.
• Maintain low noise levels, especially during ceremonies.
• Always seek permission before photographing people or ceremonial activities.
• Do not collect plants, rocks, water, or artifacts.
• Pets are not permitted, except service animals.
• Follow all posted rules and guidance from staff or volunteers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Tongva Sacred Springs visiting hours?
A: Public open days are the first Saturday of each month, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Special event hours may vary.

Q: Is there an entrance fee or are tickets required?
A: Admission is free; no tickets required. Donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are offered during open days and by appointment for groups.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Some areas are accessible, but terrain may be challenging. Contact the Foundation for accommodations.

Q: Can I take photos at the springs?
A: With permission; photography may be restricted during ceremonies.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: No, except for service animals.

Q: How can I volunteer or support the site?
A: Join volunteer days on the first Saturday of the month or donate through the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation.

Discover More

Kuruvungna Springs is a living heritage site that celebrates Tongva resilience, cultural continuity, and ecological stewardship. Visiting offers insight into Los Angeles’s deep Indigenous history while supporting ongoing preservation and educational efforts. To stay informed about visiting hours, events, and volunteer opportunities, visit the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation's official website. Download the Audiala app for audio tours and real-time updates, and follow related organizations on social media.

By engaging thoughtfully and respectfully, each visitor helps ensure that Kuruvungna Springs remains a vibrant center for Indigenous community, environmental renewal, and public education for generations to come (Alta Online; Native Tribe Info).