Though they chart the inverse of topographic maps, bathymetric maps look very similar, and show the contours and depths of bodies of water, such as oceans, lakes, or rivers. Primarily created in service of research and navigational safety, the first bathymetric measurements were made in Egypt in 1800 BCE. Early measurements, referred to as soundings, were made using long poles with incremental markings; later, weighted lines was used. Either method, however, were far less accurate than modern day methods, as all depths were taken at specific points, and could be affected by seasonal water levels and other factors (e.g. stormy seas). Lidar and ship-based sonar are the modern methods in use in the 21st century.

Crater Lake National Park Maps, 1903-1962
The Crater Lake National Park Maps consist of topographic, shaded relief, and bathymetric maps of Crater Lake, Oregon, and vicinity; most of the maps were prepared and published by the U.S. Geological Survey. The bulk of the maps are topographic maps at 1:62,500 scale. These include an early series of maps issued in 1903, 1911, 1925, and 1931 as well as a later series issued in 1946 and 1956. In addition to topographic contours, the maps depict streams, roads, trails, boat landings, Ranger stations, and campgrounds in the vicinity. The earliest topographic maps reference the 1886 survey and depth soundings conducted by Mark B. Kerr for the U.S. Geological Survey.