The Kris Eggle Visitor Center is open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm from April 20 to October 19, and from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm from October 20 to April 19. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
Entrance fees at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument are $25 for a vehicle (up to 15 passengers, 7 days), $20 for a motorcycle (7 days), and $15 per individual (7 days). An annual pass is $45. Children under 16 enter free.
From Tucson, take AZ-86 W to Why, then AZ-85 S to the monument, immersed in Sonoran Desert beauty and unique flora.
Parking is available at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center with accessible spaces, and at Twin Peaks Campground for cars, RVs, and motorcycles. No overnight parking at the visitor center, but allowed at the campground. No parking fees mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, a vast expanse of 330,000 acres in southwestern Arizona, is a testament to the rugged beauty and rich biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert. Established in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this monument preserves the northernmost natural habitat of the iconic Organ Pipe Cactus, along with an astonishing array of desert flora and fauna.
Here, the landscape unfolds like a tapestry of thorny cacti, including the giant saguaro and 25 other species, set against a backdrop of sun-scorched hills and volcanic mountains. Over 2,000 plant species thrive in this arid environment, while 300 bird species and 100 types of reptiles and amphibians call this desert home.
Visitors can explore the monument’s trails, such as the Ajo Mountain Drive and the Desert View Trail, which offer panoramic views and intimate encounters with the desert’s unique ecosystem. As night falls, the sky transforms into a celestial showcase, perfect for stargazing.
The monument is also a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, highlighting its global significance in conservation. For those seeking immersion, Ranger-led programs and guided tours provide deep insights into the monument’s natural and cultural heritage.
Nearby, the town of Ajo offers a charming blend of artisan shops and historical sites, while local outfitters can equip you for everything from hiking to birdwatching. This is a place where the extreme temperatures and intense sunlight are countered by the warmth and hospitality of the Southwest, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler seeking an authentic desert experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 517
- Annual visitors
- 224 547
- Established year
- 1937
Top 3 Facts about Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
One in 200,000 cacti in this area have a genetic mutation forming a feathery, fan-shaped crest, known as cristate or “crested” cacti, which can grow up to 10-20 feet tall.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, Sonoran Desert wildlife thrives. Migratory birds like white-tailed kites and vermilion flycatchers find nesting grounds along washes lined with mesquite trees. Resident species include elf owls and Costa’s hummingbirds, which feast on wildflowers and cacti. Javelinas and mountain lions inhabit the terrain, while rare encounters with Sonoran pronghorn and lesser long-nosed bats add to the allure. The Quitobaquito pupfish, an endangered species, swims in carefully managed ponds, highlighting the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, ancient volcanic mountains rise, their formations crafted from old rock. These remnants reach elevations that frame a landscape of unparalleled biodiversity, with over 2,000 plant species and 300 bird species calling this arid yet vibrant terrain home. The area’s dark skies, some of the darkest in the country, offer a celestial showcase unlike any other.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Family Camping & Overnight
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during the cooler winter months to avoid heat. Plan a few days to explore trails and sights. Arrive early, park near the visitor center, and anticipate rocky terrain. Rest often and pack meals, as options are limited. Enjoy the full moon hike event for a unique experience.
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and ample water for the desert climate. Bring a backpack with sun protection, snacks, a first aid kit, and a portable phone charger. For longer stays, include camping gear and electrolyte hydration packets. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance, avoiding sensitive times like mating and nesting seasons, and staying on designated trails to minimize disturbance. Carry sufficient water and hike early or late to avoid the heat. Secure food and trash to protect both you and the wildlife.
Stay Informed
Stay hydrated with at least a gallon of water per person daily. Check weather forecasts and trail conditions. Be cautious of venomous animals, steep terrain, and sudden storms. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Pack out all trash and follow fire restrictions.
Seasons
Experience the Sonoran Desert’s spring vibrancy from mid-February to early March, with mild temperatures (60s-80s°F) and the annual blooming of cacti and wildflowers. Ideal for hiking and scenic drives, this season offers a serene and colorful escape.
Experience the Sonoran Desert’s summer splendor from June to August, with temperatures often above 100°F. Though hot, early June is the dry season, making it slightly more manageable. Witness cactus blooms and join the stargazing events under incredibly dark skies. Bring sun protection and hydration.
Experience the Sonoran Desert’s mild autumn (September to November, 70s-90s°F) with clear skies and gentle rains. Witness the monsoon’s aftermath and enjoy stargazing in some of the darkest night skies. No specific fall events, but ideal for hiking and scenic drives.
Visit from November to January for mild days and cool nights, with temperatures fluctuating from 40s to 70s. Ideal for avoiding summer heat, but expect crowds and potential drastic day-to-day temperature changes. Perfect for serene sunrises and night sky viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city is Ajo, Arizona, which is about 16 miles north of the monument. Lukeville, Arizona, also adjoins the monument on the south, but Ajo is the nearest town with amenities like a grocery store.
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You can bring your dog to certain areas, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dogs are allowed on the Palo Verde Trail, Campground Perimeter Trail, and all roads, as well as in frontcountry campgrounds on paved roads. They are not allowed on most other trails or backcountry campsites.
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There is no separate fee for motorcycle parking; the entrance fee for a motorcycle is $20, which includes the rider and passengers, and is valid for 7 days.
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You can hike on many miles of trails, go camping in developed, primitive, or backcountry sites, and enjoy scenic drives on dirt roads. The park also offers ranger-led programs, birding, night sky viewing with astronomy programs, and the option to explore by horseback or bike. Additionally, you can take part in photography, especially during the wildflower display in March or cactus blooms in May and June.