Native American tribes including the Apache and Comanche camped in the sand dunes of Monahans Sandhills State Park until the 1880s, when the Texas and Pacific Railroad made Monahans a water stop. Far from a barren desert, the dune system supports a variety of biodiverse habitats. As part of the Permian Basin, Monahans Sandhills also blankets vast oil and gas reserves. Oil production began in the area during the 1920s and continues in and around the park today. This 1976 home movie captures the Baylor family enjoying a clear day at the park by sliding down sand dunes.