Texas Porch

Archaeological Site

The Rock Art at Hueco Tanks Is Protected Under State and Tribal Stewardship

Hueco Tanks holds thousands of pictographs — ancient painted images — created by multiple cultures over thousands of years, and strict rules protect them.

El Paso County History & Culture

Hueco Tanks preserves one of the most significant collections of rock art in North America. The pictographs here were created by multiple peoples over thousands of years, including the Jornada Mogollon and later groups. The site holds more than 200 face designs or 'masks,' which is a large concentration anywhere in the continent.

Several Native American tribes — including the Tigua of El Paso — consider Hueco Tanks a sacred site. Because the imagery is irreplaceable, TPWD strictly limits access. You cannot roam freely — most areas require guided tours or reserved self-guided permits. Never touch the rock art. Oil from skin degrades the pigments. Photography is allowed, but contact is not.

Source to confirm: TPWD — Hueco Tanks History

More El Paso County notes

Property Tax Basics

Who Appraises Your Home for Taxes in El Paso County

The El Paso Central Appraisal District sets the value on your property, and that value drives what you owe in property taxes.

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Homestead Exemption

How to Lower Your Tax Bill with a Homestead Exemption

If your home is your primary residence, you can apply for a homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value of your property.

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Appraisal Cap

Your Appraised Value Can Only Rise 10% Per Year with a Homestead

Texas law limits how fast a homestead property's taxable value can grow each year, which protects owners in fast-rising markets.

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Unincorporated County

Living Outside City Limits in El Paso County Means No Zoning

If your property is in unincorporated El Paso County — outside any city — there are no county zoning rules and the county cannot issue building permits.

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