Jeffers Petroglyphs, Archaeological site in Cottonwood County, United States.
Jeffers Petroglyphs is an archaeological site with over 4,000 rock carvings into red quartzite formations. The carvings depict animals, human figures, and geometric patterns that are etched deep into the stone surface.
Native Americans created these petroglyphs between 7000 BCE and 1500 CE to document their daily activities and spiritual beliefs. The carvings record connections to the natural world and important events in their societies.
The carvings depict tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects that various Indigenous groups used in the Minnesota region. These images reveal insights into the material cultures and ritual practices of these earlier inhabitants.
The Minnesota Historical Society operates a visitor center with exhibits and guided tours open from April through October. Plan to spend several hours at the site to explore the carvings from different angles and in varying light conditions.
The rock carvings become most visible at specific times of day when sunlight creates shadows within the grooves of the ancient work. This changing visibility means each visit offers a different viewing experience depending on when you arrive.
Location: Cottonwood County
GPS coordinates: 44.09194,-95.05361
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04
Minnesota contains numerous locations away from the main tourist circuits. The state stretches from the shores of Lake Superior to the southern prairies, encompassing historic lighthouses, underground mines, waterfalls, and Japanese gardens. Visitors find both natural landscapes and cultural sites that tell the story of the region's history. Notable locations include prehistoric rock carvings at Jeffers Petroglyphs Site, where indigenous peoples left their marks thousands of years ago, and sacred trees of Ojibwe culture. The geological formation known as Devil's Kettle, a waterfall whose course puzzled scientists for years, attracts visitors interested in natural phenomena. Historic mines provide insight into Minnesota's industrial past, while lighthouses recall the maritime history along the largest of the Great Lakes.
Hermann Heights Monument
52.2 km
Fort Ridgely
47.5 km
Flandrau State Park
51.2 km
Lake Shetek State Park
50.9 km
Fort Ridgely State Park
47.7 km
Kilen Woods State Park
40.7 km
Redwood County Poor Farm
50.8 km
Grand Opera House
36.1 km
Cottonwood County Courthouse
25.6 km
Godahl Store
33.1 km
Mountain Lake Site
27 km
Watonwan County Courthouse
36.4 km
West Bridge
50 km
Nora Free Christian Church
46.1 km
St. Cornelia's Episcopal Church
49.4 km
Isaac Bargen House
20.3 km
Kansas Lake Evangelical Lutheran Church
33.5 km
Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum
36.5 km
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
39.3 km
Flandrau State Park CCC/WPA/Rustic Style Historic Resources
51.6 km
Fort Ridgely State Park CCC/Rustic Style Historic Resources
47.8 km
Sleepy Eye Family Aquatic Center
34.6 km
Harkin Store
48.9 km
Fort Ridgely
47.4 km
Madelia Theater
51 km
Avoca Historical Marker
49.7 km
Lake Shetek State Park WPA/Rustic Style Historic District
51.7 km
Lake Shetek State Park WPA/Rustic Style Group Camp
51.4 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes