Coyote Springs
During the summer of 2022, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit this site along with some former colleagues. The location required an hour-long drive north from White Oaks down a B-level road, passing through several cattle gates and wandering cows. During our visit, we came across a partial cave that seemed suitable for shelter in case of rain.
During our search, we were unable to locate any evidence of an old west hideout. We subsequently proceeded to the site identified using an old map and Google Maps, which we believed to be Coyote Springs. The surrounding area appeared to display remnants of old foundations, suggesting the presence of wickiup and grass homes in the past. Notably, several pottery fragments were also discovered, likely left behind by the Mescalero Apache, who used to inhabit the region during winter months before the establishment of a nearby reservation.
According to historical records, gold was discovered in the Jicarilla Mountains only after The Apache had vacated the area. The Apache considered the gold to be sacred and labeled it as “Tears of the Sun”.
Located approximately 100 yards from this current location is a former area that housed an aged corral, as evidenced by the presence of old wooden posts, ladders, and a number of sunken horseshoes. Due to the high iron content present in the soil, utilizing metal detectors posed a minor challenge. Through our findings, spent shell casings dating back to the 19th century, specifically from a .32 caliber, were discovered, further corroborating the notion that this area was the site of The Hudgens posse out of White Oaks’ pursuit and subsequent gunshot of a horse belonging to the outlaws, dating back to at least a century ago.
During the investigation, an old medicine bottle and pieces of an old stove pipe were discovered sunken into the dirt. Moving about 50 yards from this spot, we discovered a large dry river bed, and the remaining pieces of a small structure built on the side of a hill out of sticks, rocks, and wood. To me, this looked like a spot where someone may have used to dry animal meat and fur. Remarkably, a tree had grown out of the top of its sunken roof, and a small canal was dug out, running right up to the side of its foundation. The area at one time was equipped with a water supply. Some evidence could suggest it was a springhouse.
In an effort to maintain the integrity of the site, we exercised great caution and chose not to dismantle the fragile structure. However, we were able to examine a selection of delicate artifacts from a sizable depression near the base of the structure. Among them, discovered were an unconventional container that may have once held coffee, an aged metal button potentially originating from a sweater or shirt, and several other miscellaneous items.
The site in question was documented but has yet to be rediscovered since the installation of the railroad and paved highways. Unfortunately, these modernizations have left some historic locations in a state of destitution. It is worth noting that this particular site was referenced by Pat Garrett in his book detailing the pursuit of Billy the Kid. Further research may be necessary to uncover the location and preserve this piece of history for future generations.
This area is NOT confirmed as Billy’s hideout, but if it was not, it was near there somewhere!
This site is currently being monitored by the NM-BLM and Lincoln Forest Rangers.
If you find this spot please be respectful.
Note: It is illegal to excavate and/or remove artifacts from the Lincoln National forest without a permit