The naturally occurring stone that
trap rainwater in and around the three small granite mountains
of Hueco Tanks State Historic Park have made the area an oasis
in the Chihuahuan desert for thousands of years. The abundant
wildlife and rich history of human habitation of the area has
been depicted in Native American rock paintings for millennia.
Visitors to the park can therefore experience human history, unique
geography and wildlife and outdoor adventure all in one place.
This 860-acre park, located 32 miles east of El Paso Texas, provides
many activities for visitors to engage in. Picnicking and hiking
is permitted and there are 20 separate campsites where water,
electricity, restrooms and showers are available. Rock climbers
are bound to have a good time at Hueco Tanks State Historical
Park. There a number of guided tours, with particular focus on
the prehistoric and historic pictographs the park is famous for.
Wildlife observers will delight in the opportunities here as well,
especially during the seasonal explosion in the local population
of tiny, translucent shrimp that attracts all manner of desert
predators, like bobcats, lizards and Gray Foxes. The park’s
bird watching tours are a great way to catch a glimpse of the
majestic Golden Eagle or the speedy little Prairie Falcon.
Hueco Tanks State Historical Park’s Interpretive Center
is located on a historic ranch. Visitors to the center can learn
more about the park and even see a slide show in the amphitheater.
Other sites of interest include the ruins of a 19th century stagecoach
depot.
In order to preserve the archeological
and ecologic integrity of the park, the number of daily visitors is
strictly limited. Contact the park ahead of time to check on the status
at (915) 857-1135. Silver Stage Lines run a shuttle from El
Paso Texas to the park for $20 each way per person.
