Murray Springs Clovis Site

This site is the oldest dig site in North America. It proves that people lived and hunted here over 12,000 year ago. It's a place to come to to see the area once inhabited by hunter-gatherers. There are no bones here, just signs to read and a place to stroll through to get away from the city.This interpretive dirt trail is under a mile long. Dogs are allowed here but must be leashed. The trail is not ADA friendly because it requires one to walk down and up steps and walk across a wash. Heavy monsoons have damaged the steps several times in the 18 years I have been here. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this is a free site to enjoy, but be aware that in the summer months it can get overgrown and very hot. The mesquite trees along the trail provide only little shade.It takes about 30 minutes to an hour to read all the signs and walk the loop. It's an exposed trail best done in cooler, overcast weather as there is no shade and no water. However, if you feel like exploring the area and have a dog, walk into the wash going northeast and you will hit the actual Murray Springs. It is not on the trail. Or just stay on the access trail that takes you to the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (SPRNCA) trail, marked with iron wrought poles.The area closes at dusk so be aware of that. The San Pedro river area is popular with illegal border crossers because of the water, and you may find their trash along the trail, along with dog poop left by dog walkers. Be careful when in the area at dawn and dusk not only for illegals, but for coyotes, javelina, and snakes.There is a restroom with pit toilets in the big parking area. Horses and bikes are allowed on the access trail to the SPRNCA trail, but are not allowed on the short interpretive loop trail.