IN BRIEF
A splash of blue stands out against limestone cliffs. The honking
of a great blue heron, interspersed with the descending trill of a
canyon wren, can be heard off in the distance. This landscape,
which at times appears stark and desolate, comes alive with color
after a rainstorm. Amistad is a land of contrasts...and of hidden
treasures. The same water that draws people to boat and fish
today, sustained over 300 generations of hunters and gatherers.
They left behind a record of their existence through colorful rock
art panels, bits of tools, and fibers preserved for thousands of
years by the arid desert climate.
Situated on the United States-Mexico Border, Amistad NRA is
known primarily for excellent year round, water-based recreation
including: boating, fishing, swimming, scuba diving and
water-skiing. Amistad NRA also provides opportunities for
picnicking, camping and hunting. The reservoir, at the confluence
of the Rio Grande, Devils and Pecos rivers, was created by Amistad
Dam in 1969. In addition to excellent recreation, this area is
rich in archeology and rock art, and contains a wide variety of
plant and animal life. So whether you come to boat, to ponder
ancient mysteries, or to listen to bird song and watch the desert
bloom, Amistad has something for you.
Please visit Amistad NRA's Official Home Page:
http://www.nps.gov/amis/home.htm Or just click on the "In
Depth" button to your right.
DESIGNATIONS
Amistad National Recreation Area - November 28, 1990