The Incredible Park In Texas That's Full Of Ancient Petroglyphs
By Katie Lawrence|Published March 19, 2019
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Our state is rooted in Native American culture, and remnants of it can still be seen to this day. Hiding out in the remote West Texas desert is Hueco Tanks State Park, a geological wonder with thousands of ancient petroglyphs giving us insight into how the indigenous peoples lived. See for yourself:
Located far out west in the remote Chihuahuan Desert, this often overlooked state park has provided food, water, and shelter to indigenous peoples for over 10,000 years. They chased wildlife across the arid landscape, gathered plants, and built tools for use in farming practices.
Their stories have been preserved in these rocks, untouched by modern man. Several different native groups each left a unique mark on the area, leaving behind artifacts and petroglyphs detailing different aspects of their lives.
At least three separate cultures are responsible for thousands of images covering the rock faces. Much like humans speak a variety of languages, ancient peoples also had their own distinct pictograph styles.
These starry-eyed, masked men are the most noteworthy figures in the park. Over 200 images like this one can be found at Hueco Tanks, the highest concentration in North America. Drawn by the Jornada Mogollon people, the artwork is thought to represent rain or storm deities.
Depictions of agriculture provide insight into exactly what crops were plentiful here so many millennia ago. You'll also see birds and other animals, alluding to the trials and tribulations of hunting in such a harsh climate.
Slightly newer images were added after the Spanish arrived, featuring humans in European clothing. These emotionally-charged scenes tell stories of conflict, uncertainty, and change.
The park is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and self-guided tours are allowed anytime during those hours. For those who want a more in-depth experience, rangers are more than happy to show you around - after all, navigating 860 acres all by your lonesome can be rather overwhelming.
In addition to marveling at the petroglyhps, visitors can also see diverse animal and plant life, unique geological formations, and a large, peaceful lake. Hueco Tanks is primarily a day-use park, however 20 campsites are available.
