If you’ve been itching to visit the rock hills of West Texas’ famous Hueco Tanks, you’re not alone. In years past, Hueco Tanks has drawn visitors to its water pools within the rock basins, or “huecos” (pronounced whey-coe). Today, Hueco Tanks State Historic Site draws thousands of visitors each year, primarily between November and March and on weekends and holidays. Follow these tips when you plan a day trip to Hueco Tanks State Historic Site.
Plan Ahead
We can’t emphasize this enough: You must plan ahead when visiting Hueco Tanks. Only 70 people are permitted in the self-guided area at once to preserve the land’s fragile environment. You may reserve your visit up to 90 days prior, and you’re required to call ahead if you’re coming with a group. If you don’t plan ahead, you may spend much of your Hueco Tanks visit in the car waiting for visitors to leave so you can enter.
Also, remember that Hueco Tanks is in a desert region. Dress appropriately for weather conditions, wear plenty of sun protection, and bring more than enough water. Pets can’t enter certain areas of the park, so arrange to leave your four-legged friends at home.
Take a Hike
You’ll learn about the area’s rich history dating back thousands of years via the mandatory orientation video you’ll view upon park entry. However, if you want a more intimate look at this attraction, choose a guided tour. The Roots to Fruits Hike, for example, offers a glimpse at the area’s flora and its sacred history. Birding enthusiasts will enjoy guided tours to learn about area birds, their habitats, and their behaviors.
As far back as 1,500 years ago, Hueco Tanks visitors left pictographs and petroglyphs around the area. Today, these offer insight into their history and way of life. Take a guided tour of these historical artifacts to learn more about West Texas heritage. Guided tours are aligned to various skill levels, and some may require some light scrambling over rocks.
Climb a Rock
If you love rock climbing, you’ll find plenty of adventure at Hueco Tanks. You can participate in self-guided climbs or contact a guide service to maximize your experience. The climbing here is world-class, and you’ll need to bring your own equipment and provisions to the park.
Sleep In
Once you visit Hueco Tanks, you’ll never want to leave. If you want to extend your day trip into something more, spend the night there or up to three days. Choose from 50-amp electric and water or water campsites among the 20 sites available in the park. Restrooms, hot showers, and dump facilities are on hand for your convenience. Charcoal and firewood burning is illegal, as is public consumption of alcohol. Bring your camp stove but leave the spirits at home.
A visit to Hueco Tanks is a memorable experience you must enjoy at least once in your lifetime. The area is a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure.
Hueco Tanks by charlie llewellin is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
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