Hidden in New Mexico's rugged Gila Wilderness, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument preserves fascinating 13th-century cliff homes built by the Mogollon people. This remote gem offers families an incredible opportunity to step back in time and explore authentic ancient dwellings tucked into natural cave alcoves in the cliff face.
Junior Ranger Program at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
The Junior Ranger program at Gila Cliff Dwellings focuses on archaeology and Native American culture, with kids completing activities about ancient building techniques, daily life of the Mogollon people, and artifact preservation. Young explorers learn to think like archaeologists while discovering how families lived in these cliff homes over 700 years ago.
- Walk through actual 700-year-old cliff dwellings
- Learn ancient Mogollon building and survival techniques
- Earn badge after completing archaeology-focused activities
Planning Your Visit
Van Life Tip: The monument's small parking area fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early morning; nearby Gila Hot Springs offers additional camping if the monument's primitive sites are full.
Plan Your Stay
Save on park entry with the America the Beautiful Pass — $80 for unlimited access to all 400+ National Park sites for a full year.
Where to Stay
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