Last updated: April 11, 2024
Place
Painted Rock Petroglyph Site
Bob Wick/BLM
Quick Facts
Location:
33.02437, -113.04543
Significance:
Anza Trail Historic Corridor
Designation:
Archeological Site
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
10 listed
Benches/Seating, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Permits Issued, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Picnic Table, Primitive Campsites, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead
Painted Rock Petroglyph Site is an archaeological site containing hundreds of figures and designs carved into rocks, known as petroglyphs. These were produced centuries ago by indigenous peoples. This site is considered important and even sacred to many of the Native American tribes in southern Arizona. Please keep this in mind when you visit and be respectful. There are also inscriptions made by people who passed through during historic times.
Many important trails are near the site, some of which have been traveled for thousands of years. The Anza expedition camped nearby at historic campsite #29 Ranchería de San Diego on October 14, 1775. At the site entrance, there are interpretive panels about the expedition in both English and Spanish. There is also a small interpretive trail around the petroglyph site with informational displays. The petroglyphs face the east-southeast primarily and would have been noticed by any travelers approaching from that direction. In addition to seeing the petroglyphs, you can also come here to camp, hike, birdwatch, and star gaze.