This paper documents the abundance of Stone Age finds in the Middle Kalahari, both through earlier publications and newly documented sites. Results of several decades of Stone Age research are presented through a variety of projects and placed within the context of previous archaeological investigations in the region. We argue for the importance of open-air sites in constructing a more representative picture of prehistoric behaviour in the interior of southern Africa. •Presentation of abundant Stone Age finds from Middle Kalahari - overview of earlier publications and newly documented sites.•The Kalahari of northern Botswana illustrates the potential of this under-researched area.•Results of decades of research from a variety of projects are placed in context with previous archaeological investigations.•Demonstrates the time depth and landscape variety of the prehistory in this region.•Emphasis on the role of open-air sites in reconstructing prehistoric behaviours in the interior of southern Africa.