Did you know that Texas is home to one of the oldest human sites in North America?
Tucked away in the Texas Hill Country, this site holds mysteries and treasures that are thousands of years old—older than the pyramids of Egypt!
Imagine walking where ancient people once lived, crafted tools, and left clues about their lives.
Visiting this place is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back 16,000 years.
But not anybody can just turn up and explore this site (don’t worry we’ll delve into the details for you).
In this post, we’ll explore what makes the Gault Site so special, reveal its incredible history, and uncover everything you need to know about visiting.
About The Gault Site
The Gault Site in Texas is a fascinating archaeological location that offers a rare glimpse into early human life in North America.
Situated in the Texas Hill Country, about 40 miles north of Austin, this site has revealed artifacts dating back over 16,000 years (with some potentially dating back up to 20,000 years).
This makes it one of the oldest and most significant prehistoric sites in the Americas.
If you’re lucky enough to get on a guided tour here, you’ll be able to marvel at the ancient tools, remnants, and rock art uncovered here.
These artifacts tell stories of some of the earliest people to inhabit the continent!
Today, the Gault Site serves as both a research site and a destination for people interested in the deep history of human civilization.
History of the Gault Site
The Gault Site is a treasure trove for archaeologists, historians, and anyone curious about the origins of human life in North America.
Discovered in the 20th century, this Texas site has transformed our understanding of prehistoric people on this continent.
Named after landowner Henry Gault, who allowed early researchers access to the site, it’s located in an area that was ideal for ancient people due to its natural resources like springs, flint, and shelter.
The first excavations occurred in 1929 led by J.E. Pearce, a University of Texas anthropologist and this was when Paleoindian artifacts from the Clovis era were uncovered here.
However, major discoveries were made in excavations in the 1990’s and the 2000’s (more on this in the next section).
Evidence from the excavations show it was continuously inhabited by different cultures for thousands of years, making it one of the longest-occupied sites in North America!
Why is it so special though?
What makes the Gault Site particularly significant is its rich collection of artifacts dating back to the Paleoindian period, specifically the Clovis culture, which existed around 13,000 years ago.
Before the discoveries at the Gault Site, archaeologists believed the Clovis people were the earliest humans in North America, known primarily for their distinctive fluted stone tools.
However, excavations at the Gault Site revealed something that changed the game entirely—artifacts lying in layers below the Clovis level.
This indicated that there was human activity here at least 2,000 years earlier than the Clovis people!
This discovery challenged the long-standing “Clovis First” theory, suggesting instead that humans may have arrived in North America far earlier than previously thought.
💡 Since its discovery, the Gault Site has yielded over 2.6 million artifacts, including stone tools, flakes, and unique carvings.
Among the most notable finds are rare stones engraved with abstract designs that could represent some of the oldest symbolic art in North America.
These carvings give insight into the cultural and possibly spiritual lives of ancient peoples who lived here, adding a dimension beyond basic survival.
The dense concentration of artifacts suggests that the Gault Site was not only a temporary stop, but possibly a seasonal or even semi-permanent settlement.
It’s Role In North American Archaeology
The Gault Site also played an essential role in the development of North American archaeology itself.
In the late 1990s, the Texas Archaeological Research Laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin launched extensive excavations that led to groundbreaking discoveries.
Since then, the Gault School of Archaeological Research (GSAR) has continued work to preserve the site and support ongoing research.
The discoveries from the site have helped scholars explore human migration patterns and the ways early societies adapted to their environments.
In 2018, the Gault Site was recognized with inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as a landmark of historical and scientific importance.
Today, it remains one of the few places where we can look back tens of thousands of years to catch a glimpse of the daily lives, skills, and artistry of some of North America’s earliest inhabitants.
Things to Do
While the site itself is primarily a research location, there are limited guided tours available that you can book.
These tours are a great way to learn about the site’s history directly from knowledgeable guides who can really elevate the experience.
The guides help explain the discoveries, show you fascinating artifacts, and provide context for how early inhabitants lived.
You’ll see everything from ancient flint tools to mysterious carved stones, and guides often share stories about the excavation process itself, which really brings the site to life.
For a more immersive experience, keep an eye out for special events or archaeology workshops that the Gault School sometimes offers.
These events dive deeper into prehistoric life, tool-making, and excavation techniques, letting visitors experience hands-on activities similar to those archaeologists use in the field.
It’s a chance to feel like part of the research while learning some cool skills!
Be sure to check the Gault School’s website or call ahead for tour and event schedules, as visits are by appointment and may vary depending on ongoing research.
Know Before You Go
Here’s everything you need to know before you go to make the most of your visit!
Location and Getting There
The Gault Site is located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, about 40 miles north of Austin and a short drive from the town of Florence.
It’s situated on private land, so access is by guided tour only, which is organized through the Gault School of Archaeological Research.
If you’re driving from Austin, take I-35 north to the Florence area.
The website provides their address as follows:
- Gault Site Gate Address: 3433 FM 2843, Florence, Texas 76527
Once you get close look for the large stone monument by the roadside that marks the gate for the site.
Just remember that you can visit by appointment only so don’t just turn up thinking you’re going to get a tour.
Hours and Tours
Because it’s an active research site, the Gault Site is only open to visitors on scheduled tours, which must be booked in advance.
Tours are generally offered on select days of the week and last about 2 hours, but availability can vary based on the research schedule and season.
*At the time of writing they offer tours on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month.
Check the Gault School’s website or contact them directly for the most current tour dates and times.
Pricing
The pricing on the website at the time of writing (late 2024) is as follows:
- $20 per Adult (ages 13 and up)
- $10 per Child (ages 9-12)
- Complimentary for children 8 and under
- K-12 Classroom and Educator tours: FREE
- For School Field Trips, please reach out to GSAR directly
Proceeds from these tours help support ongoing research and preservation efforts at the site, so it’s a great way to contribute to important archaeological work while enjoying a unique experience!
What to Bring
Since you’ll be exploring an outdoor area, it’s a good idea to dress for the Texas weather.
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (like a hat and sunscreen), and a water bottle are highly recommended.
Specifically, the Gault School’s website says:
- “We recommend wearing sturdy walking or trekking shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather.”
Things To Do Nearby
If you want to add more to your day or weekend trip, the surrounding Texas Hill Country has plenty to offer!
Here are a few nearby spots that make for a great extended itinerary:
Georgetown:
Just a short drive from the Gault Site, Georgetown’s charming downtown is worth a visit.
Stroll around the historic square, grab a coffee at one of the local cafes, and visit the Williamson Museum to learn more about the area’s history.
Inner Space Cavern:
Located in Georgetown, Inner Space Cavern is a spectacular limestone cave that was hidden underground for over 10,000 years and accidentally discovered in 1963!
Take a guided tour through its impressive formations and vast chambers—it’s a unique experience that connects nicely with the ancient theme of your Gault Site visit.
Lake Georgetown:
If you love the outdoors then Lake Georgetown is a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon.
You can hike, swim, or even have a picnic by the water.
The lake’s trails offer great views and are family-friendly.
Austin:
Only about 40 miles south of the Gault Site, Austin is an easy add-on for those wanting to make a weekend out of their trip.
Explore the city’s famous live music scene, sample some Texas barbecue, or take a walk along Lady Bird Lake for scenic views of downtown Austin.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge:
Less than an hour’s drive away, this refuge is ideal for anyone interested in Texas’s unique landscapes and wildlife.
There are trails for hiking, birdwatching spots, and plenty of photo ops for capturing the rugged beauty of the Hill Country.
If you want even more ideas for things to do in Texas Hill Country you’ll love this post linked below…
Related Reading: The ULTIMATE List Of Things To Do In Texas Hill Country
More Information
For more details, to confirm tour availability, or to book your visit, head over to the Gault School of Archaeological Research’s website at gaultschool.org.
They provide the latest information on tours, events, and any special programs that might be happening during your visit.
If you have questions, the Gault School staff are very helpful and can give you additional details about accessibility, tour requirements, and more.
With a little planning, your trip to the Gault Site will be as smooth as it is fascinating.
Watch the video below if you want to learn a bit more about the Gault Site.
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