In 1776 Portola encamped at these springs, part of the Rancho San Vicente - Santa Monica. The site, on the El Camino Real route used by the Mission Fathers, was known as Junipero Serra Springs, El Berrendo, San Gregorio, San Vincente Springs, and, by the Indian habitation, Wounded Deer Springs. The springs were discovered by Franciscan missionary priests and by Father Junipero Serra, who liked their waters.
