Over 13,000 years of human history and culture can be found at Petrified Forest National Park. From prehistoric peoples to early explorers, from the Civilian Conservation Corps to Historic Route 66, the park has many stories to tell.

Brief Administrative History

Little Colorado River Valley National Heritage Area
Petrified Forest National Park is a proud partner in the development of the Little Colorado River Valley National Heritage Area. Park staff will provide guidance during the designation process and subsequent management. But the park is only one of many local stakeholders who seek to preserve and promote the unique natural and cultural landscapes of this region. A private nonprofit organization, the Center for Desert Archaeology is the lead player in working towards the designation of a Little Colorado River Valley National Heritage Area.

Congress has established National Heritage Areas around the country in which conservation, interpretation and other activities are managed by partnerships among federal, state, and local governments and the private sector. The National Park Service provides technical assistance as well as financial assistance for a limited number of years following designation.

Other National park Service History and Culture websites:

Also visit the National Park Service site Discover History http://www.cr.nps.gov/

National Park Service Archeology Program

Antiquities Act
Petrified Forest National Park is one of several national park units that were preserved due to the Antiquities Act!

National Park Service Archeology Program: Vanishing Treasures

Archeology for Kids