Kenton Caves Archaeological Area

The Kenton area in the far western Panhandle contains caves and rock shelters with archaeological evidence of long-term human use. The dry climate, protected spaces and proximity to water and game made these formations useful to people traveling through the region for thousands of years. Archaeological material from the broader Black Mesa area has helped researchers understand prehistoric occupation of the High Plains and the connections between Plains and Southwestern cultures. Caves and shelters can preserve artifacts and deposits that would be destroyed quickly in more exposed settings. These locations are sensitive and should not be treated as places for artifact hunting. Removing objects, digging or disturbing archaeological deposits can destroy information permanently and may violate federal or state law depending on ownership. Access to specific caves can also involve private land. The value of the destination lies in recognizing the Black Mesa region as a cultural landscape with human history far older than ranching, the Santa Fe Trail or modern Oklahoma.